Athletes do plenty of physical work in the form of training and practice. They have more energy needs than other people. Nutritious food is essential to give them the energy reserves they need. Carbohydrates serve as the main source of energy during high-intensity activities. Healthy sources of fat are also necessary for meeting their energy needs. Dietary protein plays a key role in muscle growth and repair. Eating superfoods that contain nutrients in large quantities can have a significant effect on their health and performance.
Why healthy food is essential for athletes
Healthy food helps athletes to perform at their best. They need the energy, stamina, and agility that certain superfoods can offer them. These foods can be exceptionally high in nutrients and provide the fuel they need.
Americans love to place sports bets on their favorite athletes in the NFL, NBA, and other major leagues. The betting odds on players can fluctuate depending on their physical health and fitness. Athletes eating for peak athletic performance should include some of the following superfoods in their diets.
Salmon
Salmon is a fish that’s high in fat and a rich source of lean protein. It contains important omega-3 fatty acids that the body can store and use well. One of the main functions of omega-3 fatty acids is to reduce inflammation. This is why it can be so important for athletes who constantly train their bodies and may sustain injuries. Omega-3 fatty acids also help to support serotonin levels which can improve mood.
As salmon is protein-rich, it helps to build muscle and repair connective tissue. Eating just a serving or two of salmon a week could be of great benefit to athletes. Studies show that this can significantly reduce the risks of heart disease.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms aren’t colorful like some fruits and vegetables but can be a source of powerful micronutrients for athletes. They are rich in antioxidants that help the body deal with oxidative stress from tissue damage and aging. They contain fiber, copper, potassium, and selenium. Many immunity-boosting vitamins such as vitamin A, several B vitamins, and vitamin D come from mushrooms. There are many edible varieties of mushrooms and numerous ways to prepare them.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds have a remarkably high nutrient density. Their popularity goes back a long way, and the Aztecs would feed chia to their messengers to give them stamina.
Passionate fans like top soccer players who put their heart and soul into games. This requires stamina, and players can benefit from including chia seeds in their diets. They have high protein content and contain calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Soaking chia seeds before eating them is recommended for proper absorption of the nutrients.
Pulses
Pulses are one of the trending superfoods for 2024 that athletes should include in their diets. They are the edible seeds of legume plants and include chickpeas, lentils, beans, dry peas, and soybeans. As complex carbohydrates, they are a great source of fiber and slow-burning energy. As a source of soluble fiber, they help to control blood cholesterol levels. They also contain plant protein, potassium, magnesium, and iron.
Athletes may avoid legumes for fear of causing bloating or gas. Increasing fiber intake too rapidly can cause a problem. Athletes who introduce them slowly are unlikely to experience any gastrointestinal discomfort. Daily consumption of foods like lentils helps lower cholesterol, glycemic, and inflammatory responses.
Berries
Athletes can lose vitamin C through sweating. Berries are high in vitamin C and can help them to regain what they lost. They also contain fiber and do not cause blood sugar levels to rise at the same rate as some other fruits. Eating berries can help to improve performance by having a beneficial effect on health and disease prevention.
Açai berries typically come from South America and are a reddish-purple. They may have more antioxidants than other berries such as cranberries and blueberries. Antioxidants help to fight free radicals that can damage healthy cells. These berries also help decrease joint pain and strengthen the immune system which could benefit athletes.
