While there are many supplements and vitamins that can be bought at fitness stores and pharmacies, none of them areas effective as the amount of energy and nutrients you can get from a variety of natural power foods.
The macros and nutrients in these power foods combine together to help your body reduce inflammation, fight fatigue and aid with recovery whilst giving you the boost you need to power through your daily workouts.
Oatmeal
The super star of healthy breakfasts, Oatmeal is full of fiber, low in fat and digests slow, helping you feel full for longer. It also contains a soluble fiber, ‘beta glucan’, that has been proven to lower LDL Cholesterol. Contrary to popular belief, carbs are not bad, and are much needed to fuel your workout making Oatmeal an ideal choice for a pre or post workout snack.
Peanuts
Looking for some quality protein intake? Look no further! This protein rich nut is a go to for muscle building and help scurb your hunger by keeping you feeling full for longer. Did we also mention that Peanuts also help repair your muscles?
Spinach
“I am strong to the finish, cause I ‘eats’ me spinach”
Popeye wasn’t lying when he said that. Regularly consuming Spinach does keep you strong! Inorganic nitrate found in Spinach improves muscle performance by using less oxygen during workouts.
Beetroot Juice
Get with the beet! High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, beetroot juice helps lower blood pressure and increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the cells.
Pumpkin Seeds
Feeling a bit out of breath and easily tired during your workouts? Chances are that your body may be low on iron. Essential to the production of healthy red blood cells that deliver oxygen to tissues in the body, Iron can be found in abundance in Pumpkin seeds. Get a baking tray, add some pumpkin seeds, sprinkle a little salt and roast it for a few minutes. Thank us later while you are indulging in this wholesome snack that will keep you focused and fit during your exercise routine.
Eggs
An ideal choice for a post workout snack or recovery food, Eggs are high in protein and low in fat! Having eggs for breakfast can also help keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. Eggs combined with toast, potatoes, oatmeal etc. are all great healthy breakfast options!
Watermelon
Rich in Amino Acids, Watermelon juice can help relieve muscle pain after a workout. Grab a watermelon, make a juice (leave the sugar out) and gulp it down and say goodbye to muscle soreness!
Tomatoes
This everyday super food can help protect your heart while also combatting exercise induced muscle damage. Try to add in tomatoes to your daily diet to get the maximum results out of your workouts.
Spirulina
One of the most nutritious foods on the planet, Spirulina contains a good source of protein, amino acids, vitamin B1,B2, B3, Copper, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium and an array of other minerals and antioxidants that help with strength, endurance and recovery. Spirulina can be best enjoyed in smoothie balls or even protein balls!
Fenugreek
Packed with a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, Fenugreek helps control inflammation while controlling your appetite and reducing blood cholesterol. Proven to improve strength performance while reducing body fat, Fenugreek can be enjoyed in your meals by adding it to your curries, meats and vegetables before cooking.
Brazil Nuts
Muscle recovery is key to achieving your fitness goals. Rich in healthy fats and essential vitamins, Brazil nuts can help keep your immune system stronger while improving your thyroid function. Adding Brazil nuts to your diet can also help protect and repair your bones.
Bananas
Go Bananas! With an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients, Bananas are a great way to give yourself an energy boost before a workout! Packed with carbs and potassium, Bananas help with muscle cramping. Eat it by itself, add it to your Yogurt, and make a smoothie or even some Banana pancakes, this versatile food is a pre/post workout snack preferred by fitness enthusiasts all over the world.
Sweet Potatoes
An excellent source of Vitamin A, Sweet Potatoes help with the prevention of cancer while promoting good eye health. High in fiber and low in calories, Sweet Potatoes is a wholesome food that can help you on your weight loss journey.
Chia Seeds
Containing an abundance of calcium to keep your bones strong, adding some Chia seeds to your smoothie, smoothie bowl or juice can aid with muscle recovery and combatting fatigue.