These fruits and veggies can help power up your workouts and recovery in a big way …
And the next time you see them in the grocery store, you’ll look at them in a whole new light!
1. Green Peas
Peas are rich in protein (vital in the repair & rebuilding process), plus they contain magnesium and vitamin B6, both of which help with energy production, muscle contraction, and nerve function.
2. Oranges
When you work out, you create free radicals (aka “oxidative stress”) in your body, which can damage your cells. The vitamin C in oranges helps sweep up those free radicals while also boosting your immune system.
Another vitamin C superpower: helping you absorb iron from plant-based foods, especially important for female athletes.
3. Beets
Packed with nitrates, beets can boost your circulation, increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This is important during and after your workouts. Buy them fresh, canned or use beet juice.
4. Tart cherries
These small fruits are loaded with antioxidants that help you recover from workouts by reducing inflammation and muscle soreness. A small amount of tart cherry juice mixed into a protein shake is a great post-workout choice.
5. Spinach
Dark leafy greens contain important nutrients that boost performance, including magnesium, vitamin C, zinc, iron, and calcium. Not only that but they are one of the best sources of vitamin K, which helps you build and maintain healthy bones (as well as promote heart health).
6. Bananas
This fruit is a portable and easy-to-digest carb source to give you fast pre-workout fuel. Even better, they’re packed with potassium, an electrolyte you need to maintain normal fluid levels in your cells. Potassium also helps your muscles contract and supports normal blood pressure.
7. Sweet potatoes
There’s a reason sweet potatoes are a top choice of many athletes. They are loaded with vitamin C, vitamin b6, potassium, and fiber. They also contain manganese, which can help your cells produce energy.
Remember — food is fuel! Next time you plan and prep your meals, think about adding a few of these to your daily intake, and watch how your energy, strength, performance, and mental health are boosted.
Ready to maximize the power of food with a tailor-built nutrition plan, made to support your goals and adapted to your busy life (WITHOUT counting calories or ditching dessert?)
Schedule your free 20-minute nutrition consultation today. You just may reach levels you never knew were possible!