There are two parts to reaching your fitness goals when it comes to food. The first part is maintaining a healthy diet and being conscious of the types of food you eat. The second part is recovery post-workout. It’s important to take care of your body long-term (diet) but also short-term (after muscles are fatigued). If you can change how you think about the food you put into your body and when you do it, these five foods can help you reach your fitness goals.
Almonds
Almonds are an energy-dense food. They pack a lot of punch into a small snack. The combination of protein, healthy fat and vitamins/minerals aid your efforts in staying or getting fit. Additional benefits include giving you the energy to build stronger muscles and burn more fat. These nuts can be taken on the go and stashed away in your purse or car for a nutritious snack in the middle of your day or after your workout to fuel your muscles.
Eggs
Eggs should be a staple in your diet. They can be eaten at any meal and in tons of different ways. Eggs also have a high amount of protein, healthy fat and vitamins. Plus, there are beneficial nutrients in the yolk that aren’t found in many other foods. Whether you eat it hard boiled, scrambled or over-easy, you will want to include eggs into your meals each week.
Quinoa
Quinoa is an unassuming nutritional powerhouse. Not only is it full of protein, but also it is rich with antioxidants. This kind of protein is a “complete” protein, which means that it contains nine essential amino acids, making it very similar to those found in an animal protein. Plus, these kinds of antioxidants could potentially aid in muscle recovery after a tough workout by minimizing the damage your cells experience. Quinoa is a great side dish with any meal.
Blueberries
While blueberries might be the only food on this list that isn’t high in protein, it brings something else to the table. This fruit is the pinnacle of all fruit. It boasts a higher number of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals than almost any other fruit out there. As a bonus, they are low in calories, are an easy snack to eat alone or throw in a smoothie, and they are known to help boost your memory.
Salmon
You might be seeing a theme here. Eating a combination of protein and healthy fats is the best way to reach your fitness goals. Salmon is no exception! This fish is high in fatty omega 3’s which also help boost memory and heart health. That composition also benefits your muscles.
Begin incorporating these five foods into your weekly routine to help you reach your fitness goals. Also, don’t forget one of the most important tips we could give: drink a lot of water! Staying hydrated will only further the benefits of your hard work.
AWESOME... thanks michelle.