10 foods every athlete should have in their house
Diet and nutrition are essential parts of training and eating a varied and balanced diet are strongly recommended.
Oatmeal: Rich in carbohydrates and proteins, it provides the perfect nutritional balance for your workouts
Oatmeal is the perfect fitness food for any athlete. As well as the important nutrients it contains, there are also lots of delicious recipes you can make using it nowadays. So it no longer had to be the boring oatmeal we are all familiar with.
Coconut oil: Improves endurance and energy and is particularly helpful for sore muscles
You will only notice an increase in performance because of consuming coconut oil after a long period of time and so, you should start using it in your diet plan early. It can even be rubbed directly onto sore muscle areas and is also an excellent source of energy.
Brown rice: Rich in fibre, it helps build muscle and is full of energy
Brown rice is extremely healthy. Due to its fibre content, it stays in the stomach for longer, meaning you feel fuller for longer as a result and avoid those nasty cravings.
Almond butter: The perfect food to help reduce your fat intake
As an athlete, you will benefit from its high protein content, but at the same time, you are still eating healthy fats. This butter also has a positive effect on your cholesterol levels and thus reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.
Nuts: Their fatty acids encourage the growth of muscle cells
Be it walnuts, hazelnuts or cashew nuts, they all regulate your blood sugar levels, which means that your pans of hunger can quickly be satisfied. They also are known to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Cereals: Provide a lot of energy and strengthen your metabolism while you are training
Cereals are quick to prepare in the form of muesli and other cereals and act as a good addition to a healthy, balanced diet. Cereals have also been known to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Tinned salmon: Rich in omega 3 and improves the metabolism of muscle proteins
Salmon has been proven to reduce the risk of heart attacks. This is because it is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids and it is also good for the brain and joints.
Sweet potatoes: Provide vitamin B6, nourish the muscles and facilitate digestion
Vitamins, potassium, magnesium, calcium… sweet potatoes are rich in lots of nutrients. They promote cell regrowth, relieve muscle spasms, stabilise your bones and are good for keeping your nerves functioning properly.
Quinoa: A great source of iron and vitamin B, they also contain lots of energy
Quinoa is all the rage nowadays and there’s a good reason for that. The plant, which is native to South America, has been popular for its energy-supplying properties since Inca times and is therefore a must for any athlete to have in their pantry.
Black beans: An excellent source of protein which also help combat pain and inflammation
Black beans are an excellent source of protein and are therefore essential for athletes. They also help with pain and inflammation and can be used in a multitude of different recipes - not just in chilli con carne!
