Are you trying to get fit? You are probably doing a lot of exercise on a daily basis and following a diet plan. Yet, you are not getting the results you are after. This is not because you are not doing the right exercise; it is simply because you are not eating certain foods that are known to aid in this process. Indeed, there are some fitness foods that can go a long way in helping you shed off the extra pounds you have and whip your body in shape. Do you want to know what they are? The top 7 fitness foods you should eat are discussed right here:
Table of Contents
Fitness Food 1: Milk
Milk is an excellent choice for all those who have just upped their activity levels as it has bone-healthy calcium, hydrating properties, refuels your sugar and also contains muscle-healing protein. As per Chef Ido Fishman, you can take a glass of warm milk before going to bed as it assists in drifting off so you can also get the rest you need. You can drink chocolate milk after a workout as it gives you the protein for repairing muscles and carbs for energy.
Fitness Food 2: Broccoli
Green vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and kale are considered some of the most nutrient-dense foods you will find because they comprise of fiber that promotes digestion, antioxidants that eliminate free-radicals and a horde of other minerals and vitamins. They are also an excellent source for folate, which is great for boosting heart health. Broccoli is a great alternative to dairy products as it can give you the bone-building calcium you need.
Fitness Food 3: Tomatoes
A powerful antioxidant called lycopene can be found in tomatoes, which gives them their red hue and is a powerful nutrient as well. Tomatoes are also rich in Vitamin C and considered handy for weight loss programs. It has been linked with leptin, which is a type of protein that can regulate your appetite and metabolic rate.
Fitness Food 4: Dried Fruit
Dried fruits like raisins, apricots and mango are high in natural sugars and also provide you with a concentrated source of carbohydrate, which makes them excellent energy boosters. Every mouthful of dried fruits also gives you plenty of potassium, fiber, vitamins and minerals and phytonutrients. They contain lots of carbs so you don’t run out of energy. Therefore, you should eat a serving or two before a workout.
Fitness Food 5: Bananas
One of the most perfect fitness foods to be found are bananas. They are soft to chew, compact, not fussy at all and are laden with nutrients. Also, you shouldn’t be too quick in getting rid of the peel. Research has shown that the peel is actually high in eye-protecting lutein, mood-boosting serotonin and potassium. Try the entire banana i.e. along with peel, in a smoothie. They have slightly more calories than other fruits and this is due to the carbohydrates in them. Thus, they can be used for refueling before or after a workout.
Fitness Food 6: Blueberries
A few years ago, blueberries were given the title of ‘superfoods’ as they have a high level of antioxidants that are immensely helpful in eradicating free radicals. These free radicals are very dangerous because they travel around the body causing diseases, damaging cells and triggering premature aging. Hence, blueberries can be life-savers and are also low in calories. Chef Ido Fishman says that they are great to eat during and after exercise because of the carbs they contain and they provide energy to the muscles as quickly as possible.
Fitness Food 7: Brazil Nuts
All nuts contain lots of fiber, minerals and vitamins, but Brazil nuts seem to have something extra; they are a great source of selenium, which is a micronutrient and mineral that protects against cancer and heart disease. It also helps in maintaining a healthy heart. Brazil nuts can also come in handy for lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body, but they should be eaten in limited quantity as they are a bit high in calories. Nonetheless, they are great for curbing hunger pangs and pack in lots of nutrients to help you.
These 7 fitness foods can drive you closer to your goals of achieving fitness and weight loss.
