Regardless if you’re a seasoned competitive athlete or someone that just decided to get into shape, it’s important to know what fuels the body. Things like getting enough sleep, keeping stress levels low, and staying hydrated are crucial. You also have to know about the top superfoods that improve athletic performance. Understanding what these superfoods are is just as important as knowing the right training exercises to do in the gym. Finding the right superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance is a necessary step when it comes to maximizing your performance. That’s why we wanted to create this list of superfoods for those hoping to take their fitness goals to the next level! Below you’ll find four of the top superfoods that improve athletic performance.
Ranked Top Superfoods That Improve Athletic Performance
Fresh Spirulina
Probably the oldest and one of the top superfoods that enhances athletic performance is fresh spirulina. Spirulina is a blue-green algae that grows in salt and freshwater. Ancient Aztecs were consuming spirulina before anyone really knew what a “superfood” was. Hundreds of years later, NASA astronauts are utilizing spirulina for health and performance purposes. Spirulina is a microorganism that provides a rich source of protein, vitamins, essential amino acids, minerals, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and other nutrients to your body. There are various studies showing how fresh spirulina can enhance muscular strength and improve endurance. Scientists, doctors, and nutritionists all agree that spirulina can give top-performing athletes the extra boost of energy they need to reach any health goal.
But the benefits don’t stop there! Spirulina is an incredible anti-oxidant known for strengthening the immune system, which is on everyone’s priority list right now, not just high performing athletes. Not only does spirulina classify as one of the superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance, but it’s also great for your skin, your cardiovascular health, and it’s proven to lower cholesterol and keep blood sugar levels in check. The best part about spirulina? It can be added to your favorite juices, smoothies, and shakes! As you read through the rest of our superfood list, remember that you can add fresh alive spirulina to upgrade the other top superfoods that improve athletic performance!
Kale
Much like spirulina, kale has also received a lot of attention for keeping athletes’ bodies healthy and strong. Kale is a member of the cabbage family and is high in vitamins A, C, K, and B6. The reason why kale is considered one of the top superfoods that improve athletic performance is that it helps to reduce inflammatory properties in the body. Not only is kale an incredible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient, but it’s also a great source of protein. And unlike beef or other proteins, you don’t run the risk of indulging in a ton of calories. Because it’s also high in fiber, it can help reduce cholesterol while it keeps the body running. Kale can be consumed in many different ways, but most athletes enjoy kale smoothies with other super greens like avocados, spinach, and of course, fresh spirulina. Adding fresh spirulina to a kale smoothie assures athletes that they’re consuming real superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance.
Beets
Next on our list of superfoods that can improve athletic performance is beets or beet juice. In order to keep the body moving, you need carbohydrates. There’s a lot of misinformation out there about carbohydrates. Some people believe that in order to lose weight and get fit, carbs need to be cut out completely. But if you want to stay energized, you need a healthy dose of good carbs! Beets are high in carbohydrates, which can keep athletes going without becoming too fatigued during a tough workout. In addition, their high nitrate count can help move oxygen to the cells, helping you feel energized and focused. Keep in mind that beet juice and fresh spirulina completes any energy drink. If you’re into juicing, remember to add a serving of spirulina to your beet juice or any other type of juice to keep you going all day.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is packed with something called medium-chain triglycerides (or MCTs). MCTs make coconut oil one of the superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance and keep your endurance up throughout a strenuous workout. Coconut oil isn’t only good for stamina and energy, but it’s also good fuel for your brain. If you’re familiar with the ketogenic diet, you probably already know that coconut oil is converted into ketones when it hits your liver. This builds energy in your brain cells because the conversion to ketones allows it to pass the blood-brain barrier. Coconut oil can be added to many different things such as coffee, salad dressings, juices, smoothies, or protein shakes. Coconut oil and fresh spirulina together can add the extra punch you need to get through a long day and a high impact workout.
Berries
Berries are the earth’s most delicious antioxidants! Strawberries, blackberries, acai berries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries don’t only add a wonderful touch of sweetness to a bowl of grains or a smoothie, but they’re also great for those hoping to boost their athletic performance. When most people think of berries, they think of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, however, it’s important to keep in mind that berries also aid in cellular regeneration. If you’re feeling soreness after a high-impact workout, going for a big bowl of berries can help ease tension and heal muscle tissue. Berries can provide a lot of tension relief, energy, and they also reduce inflammation. Berries are a great choice any time of day. For those who aren’t big fans of the taste of green smoothies, with kale, live spirulina, or other bitter ingredients, adding a handful of cherries to a shake or smoothie can provide the touch of sweetness to relieve cravings and balance the taste.
Kefir
Kefir is a type of fermented milk that’s often served as a beverage or in a yogurt-like form. With so many different types of dairy and non-dairy products out there that resemble milk and yogurt (for instance, oat, almond, or rice), kefir is often an overlooked product at your local health food store. Kefir comes from a type of grain. Kefir is made by allowing the grains to sit and ferment with milk for up to 24 hours, which turns into a probiotic-rich substance that resembles yogurt. This is classified as a superfood that naturally enhances athletic performance because it’s rich in protein and other vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, B12, phosphorus, and magnesium. The best part about kefir is the fact that it can aid in digestion and it’s great for your gut health. When top athletes are pushing themselves to the limit, they can often face digestion issues due to loading up on the wrong foods or supplements before or after a workout. If you’ve been experiencing digestion issues, try adding kefir to your diet. Kefir is a great way to add more protein to a shake, without having to rely on just plain yogurt. A top athlete favorite is a kefir shake, with berries, bananas, fresh spirulina, and coconut.
Avocado
Over the last decade, avocados have become one of the most popular fruits on the planet! While hip restaurants boast about their stuffed avocados and avocado toast on their menus, high performing athletes have been using avocados in their diet long before they were trendy. Avocados are on our list of top superfoods that improve athletic performance because they’re filled with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber. They not only make you feel full and keep your heart healthy, but they also taste amazing. Avocados have a rich creamy texture and they work as a great base for both sweet and savory dishes, shakes, and smoothies. Avocados can be added to a sweet berry shake topped with red apples and pineapple, or even a vegetable drink with kale, lemon, spirulina, spinach, and other greens.
Chia Seeds
Did you know that “chia” is the Mayan word for “strength”? That’s right! These ancient seeds were used long ago to help Mayans and Aztecs sustain their energy and keep moving, even with little food or sustenance. Chia seeds are considered a top athlete superfood because they contain the golden trio, which is protein, fiber, and fatty acids. Because of their perfect protein and fiber count, adding chia seeds to your diet can help you stay energized and keep a balanced weight without including too many calories. Chia seeds aren’t known for having a lot of flavors. They’re mostly mild in taste with a touch of nuttiness. This makes them a perfect addition to any dish or energy drink. They’re great on top of cereal or mixed into a Alive Spirulina smoothie or shake.
Bananas
Bananas may be mother nature’s most perfect dessert. They’re creamy, rich in flavor, sweet, and satisfying. The best part? They’re good for you and they can help improve athletic performance! Athletes will eat bananas before or after an intense workout because they include just the right amount of carbohydrates. When you need just a small boost of energy to finish off your day, a banana is a great choice. Instead of reaching for a sugary energy drink, go for a banana. They’re great alone as a snack, or you can add bananas to any smoothie or shake. Much like berries, adding a banana to a bitter or intense tasting smoothie with kale, spirulina, and spinach can bring in a hint of sweetness.
Walnuts
While so many nuts and seeds are considered superfoods, walnuts have the most Omega-3 fatty acids, making them a top superfood for improving athletic performance. Walnuts are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and B vitamins. Eating a handful of walnuts every day can also lower your LDL cholesterol, also known as the “bad cholesterol”, and boost heart health. Athletes love them because they give you energy. Foodies love walnuts because they’re delicious! Adding walnuts to any dish makes it better. Chopped walnuts on top of fruit or veggie smoothies, such as a powerhouse green smoothie with avocado, kale, live spirulina, spinach, and bananas adds that perfect touch of nuttiness that everyone enjoys.
Combine any of these top superfoods that improve athletic performance with a serving of fresh spirulina! Remember that spirulina comes in different forms, such as powders or tablets, but it serves athletes best when it’s fresh and alive! Check out frozen forms of fresh spirulina to get the optimal nutrients from this amazing superfood.
White Rice or Pasta
When it comes to eating healthy, brown rice or whole-wheat pasta can offer a lot of benefits. However, when it comes to superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance, white rice is a top choice for athletes. White rice is often chosen for its glycogen replenishment, and the fact that this carbohydrate provides an effective and efficient burst of energy. If your goal is to lose weight, choosing whole grains, such as brown rice, might be a better option. But if you’re an athlete who needs energy for endurance and conditioning, white rice or even pasta is a much better choice. A bowl of white rice with a glass of alive spirulina will give you a competitive edge in any sport.
Eggs
In various health and fitness outlets, eggs have been both denounced and praised for their benefits and health risks. While some believe that high cholesterol should rule eggs out of any health goals, it’s important for athletes to understand why eggs are on our list of superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance. First, eggs are high in protein and are considered a great source of Omega-3 fats. Eggs are also packed with vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, and even include zinc, calcium, and lecithin. Our recommendation to top performers is to avoid just eating egg whites and eat the entire egg to receive the most benefits.
Fish
There is no question that adding fish to any diet is a smart and healthy move. But athletes can receive an extra advantage by eating more fish. This is because fatty fish, such as salmon, is packed with Omega-3, which can increase neuromuscular activity and reduce fatigue, allowing athletes to perform at higher levels for longer periods of time. Fish can also aid in joint health, heart health, and muscle recovery. If you’re training for a triathlon, adding fish three times a week to your diet can help you stay focused, recover quickly from sore muscles, and keep off unhealthy body fat. Remember that drinking a glass of fresh alive spirulina is an excellent addition to any fatty fish dish.
Chicken
The fact that chicken is on our list of superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance is probably not a surprise. For centuries, top-performing athletes have utilized the many benefits of chicken. Chicken isn’t only a great protein that’s easy to digest, but it’s also rich in phosphorus, zinc, selenium, B3, and B6. One of the best things about chicken is it’s also easy to cook! You don’t have to be a top chef to enjoy delicious, lean, protein-packed chicken. However, we do advise choosing cage-free organic chicken to avoid unwanted additives, such as hormones or antibiotics, that can be harmful to your body.
Oatmeal
Often cited as the perfect breakfast food, oatmeal is one of the most popular superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance. Many people only think of oatmeal as a great heart-healthy choice for those who want to boost their cardiovascular function, but the benefits of oatmeal go beyond that. Athletes love oatmeal because it’s a low-glycemic carbohydrate that boosts energy, and unlike cereals or other breakfast foods, you won’t experience a sugar crash half-way through your workout. Oatmeal can also aid in digestion because of its high fiber content.
Sweet Potatoes
Athletes looking for superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance will consistently choose the sweet potato for energy, vitamins, and nutrients. Not only is the sweet potato a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, which is necessary for endurance and energy, but it can also be cooked in a variety of ways. Sweet potatoes can be seasoned with spices like cumin and turmeric, which have their own health benefits or can be baked and eaten alone. The bright orange color of sweet potatoes means that they’re filled with vitamin A (beta carotene) that boosts cell growth. Combine a glass of fresh alive spirulina with a baked sweet potato at any time of day for optimal energy.
Quinoa
Quinoa is often referred to as the “perfect protein”. This is because quinoa contains all nine amino acids. This is important for athletes to know because our bodies can’t make all nine of these amino acids on their own. Quinoa is also rich in magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, fiber, calcium, and vitamin E. Quinoa also includes antioxidants, which can fight off disease and infection throughout intense fitness training periods. For those with gluten allergies, quinoa is a great choice because it’s gluten-free and tastes great.
Legumes
A legume is a plant, fruit, or seed that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Some common legumes labeled as superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance are chickpeas, lentils, beans, soybeans, and peanuts. Since legumes come in a wide variety of forms, it’s easy to include them into your diet. However, one specific legume that athletes love is beans. Beans have a low-glycemic index, making them a perfect superfood for those who have long and intense workouts at the end of the day, but not a lot of time for meals in between. They’re also rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and are great for the heart. Remember to add a glass of fresh alive spirulina with your legumes to create the perfect mid-day meal.
Spinach
Our list of superfoods that naturally enhance athletic performance would not be complete without spinach. One of the key reasons for this is nitrates. Spinach is packed with nitrates! Nitrates provide additional oxygen to the body when it’s reached its limits. This means longer more comprehensive workouts without sudden fatigue. Spinach is also a great source of iron, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. The greatest part about spinach is that it’s incredibly low in calories (for instance, 3 cups of raw spinach is only 21 calories). Athletes can consume as much spinach as they want and boost athletic performance without adding bad fats or calories to their daily diet.
Dark Chocolate
Studies show that dark chocolate can provide an extra boost of energy to weight trainers, athletes, and fitness gurus because it dilates blood vessels, which increases blood flow, allowing for optimal cardio performance. Plus, dark chocolate has those essential antioxidants that will reduce inflammation after an exhausting work out. Consuming reasonable amounts of dark chocolate can also lower your blood pressure, reduce stress, and help suppress cravings for other sugary foods. These are some of the many reasons why dark chocolate is a favorite superfood amongst professional athletes and trainers.
Combine any of these top superfoods that improve athletic performance with a serving of fresh Alive Spirulina! Remember that spirulina comes in different forms, such as powders or tablets, but it serves athletes best when it’s fresh and alive! Check out frozen forms of fresh Spirulina to get the optimal nutrients from this amazing superfood.