What do you think of when you hear the terms ‘plant-based protein’ and ‘vegan athlete’? The most likely image that comes to mind is a beaming, toned vegan athlete who consumes nothing but brightly colored vegetables with a side of egg-white omelette. But it turns out there are many more beauty foods fit for plant-based athletes that are getting attention. Today’s article dives into the bevy of nutritious and delicious plant-based proteins and snacks that are fueling vegan athletes and helping them look and feel their best.
1. Fueling with Plant-Based Protein: Vegan Athletes Reap the Beauty Benefits
Although veganism may be associated with health benefits, athletes know that protein is especially important when it comes to strength building. That’s why many vegan athletes are turning to plant-based proteins to fuel up for training and competition. And they’re reaping beauty benefits too.
Plant-based proteins are as easily-tolerated if not more than animal proteins. Soy, pea, and rice protein are especially good sources of plant-based proteins athletes can use for fueling up. Soy, which is a complete protein, is also rich in isoflavones and antioxidants.
And it’s not just about how the body functions—plant-based proteins have beauty benefits too. When vegan athletes fuel up on plant-based proteins, they gain the benefits of amino acids, which help to maintain strong and healthy hair, skin, and nails. Here are some other great beauty benefits vegans enjoy:
- Moisturized Skin: Plant-based proteins are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep the skin hydrated and nourished.
- Strong Hair and Nails: Amino acids help build healthy hair and nails, and vegan athletes get plenty from plant-based proteins.
- Glowing Complexion:The antioxidants in plant-based proteins can help to reduce free-radical damage, promoting a healthier, more glowing complexion.
It’s no wonder why vegan athletes are fueling up on plant-based proteins. Not only are they supporting their body’s physical needs, but reaping beauty benefits too.
2. Nourishing Foods to Incorporate into Your Workouts
Eating the right foods before, during, and after your workout is key to maximizing your results and powering through your exercise session, leaving you feeling energized and looking your best. Here are some top-tier nourishing foods that you can incorporate into your fitness routine.
1. Eggs
- Eggs contain protein which is known to help with building and repairing muscle.
- A protein-packed egg dish can keep your hunger at bay before a workout.
2. Bananas
- Before heading to the gym, reach for bananas, a fruit that is naturally sweet and packed with potassium—a key electrolyte that is important for proper muscle contraction and balance.
- This amazing fruit is also a great source of complex carbohydrates to fuel your workouts.
3. Yogurt
- Yogurt provides some good carbohydrates and protein to provide energy and help with muscle recovery.
- Greek yogurt is especially helpful because it contains more protein and has a creamy texture so it goes down easy even after a tough sweat session.
4. Salmon
- Sea-based proteins such as wild-caught salmon contain important omega-3 fatty acids plus an array of vitamins and minerals that are known to support muscle growth and recovery.
- The anti-inflammatory properties of natural omega-3 fatty acids could also help reduce post-workout soreness.
3. Easy Swaps for Plant-Based Power
If you’re getting serious about introducing more plant-based proteins to your diet, it doesn’t have to be a major change. These easy swaps will give you a kick of power without having to totally overhaul your kitchen.
Start with breakfast. Instead of reaching for bacon and eggs, try a hearty breakfast bowl with black beans, quinoa, and kale for a protein-packed morning. Finished with a sprinkle of hemp seeds on top, you’ll be surprised at how satisfying a plant-based option can be.
Lunch and dinner options aren’t in short supply either:
- Replace hamburgers with crunchy veggie burgers.
- Try som tum tossed with roasted edamame and peanuts.
- And don’t forget about Mexican food – tacos are great when loaded with beans or grilled vegetables.
For snacks, cashews are a great source of plant-based protein that’s both yummy and filling. For an added protein boost, make your own nut butter with almonds and pumpkin seeds.
4. Beauty Benefits of Going Vegan
Deeper Skin Hydration: Going vegan can not only improve your overall health but it can also transform your skin. The powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals found in fruits, veggies, and plant-based proteins are great for supplying deep hydration for a glowing complexion.
Reduced Stress: A major benefit of going vegan is that it can reduce your levels of mental and physical stress. Meat, eggs, and dairy products have been found to release certain hormones and enzymes associated with stress and inflammation.
Stronger Hair and Nails: Good nutrition is the key to achieving any beauty goals. Eating a plant-based diet that’s high in vitamins and minerals can help to promote stronger nails and hair growth. That’s why so many vegan celebrities swear by it.
Healthy Glow: You don’t need to spend a dime on harsh chemicals or expensive skincare products to get an undeniable glow. A vegan lifestyle can provide plenty of antioxidant-rich foods to promote skin health. Some of the best antioxidants are found in blueberries, green tea, and dark chocolate.
Going vegan is a great way to give you body and skin the nutrients it needs to look and feel its best. There are many other great , such as improved digestive health, increased energy levels, and better sleep. So, make the switch today and enjoy the beauty benefits!
5. Plant-Based Eating to Out-Perform the Competition
For athletes serious about their performance, no healthy diet is complete without a significant shift towards plant-based eating. From ultra endurance runners to world-class sprinters, the fuel they put into their bodies can make or break their athletic ambitions. While a vegan diet doesn’t guarantee performance enhancement, it does give athletes access to specific benefits that can improve their outlook in the competition.
Quick Recovery
Plant-based eating provides ideal amounts of protein, calcium, and iron for athletes. This helps them quickly replenish lost energy, reduce fatigue, and prevent muscle damage during exercise.
Increases Performance
Switching to a diet rich in legumes, grains, vegetables, and fruits naturally reduces cholesterol and reduces inflammation in the body. This allows athletes to perform for longer durations and push harder than they would have been able to on an animal-based diet.
Gets Rid of the Unnecessary
A plant-based diet eliminates any unnecessary fat or carbohydrates from the athlete’s diet, providing an ideal ratio of macronutrients for energy performance and maintenance.
- It helps reduce muscle soreness and promote quicker recovery times
- It can help rebuild and strengthen muscles during recovery
- It improves energy levels for athletes during long workouts
- It reduces the risk of injuries, inflammation, and fatigue during workouts
Overall, plant-based eating can help athletes out-perform the competition and stay in peak shape. Eating plant-based is the perfect form of fuel for athletes of all levels. Putting their diet in focus is the first step to optimizing performance and achieving those pesky athletic goals.
If you are an athlete considering a change in diet, the plant-based protein diet is a powerful and effective way to pack more nutrition and beauty foods into your diet. With its balanced blend of delicious and nutritious foods, this diet is the perfect choice for vegan athletes in search of vibrant health and performance!
