BY DR. SUNEIL JAIN
Professional basketball player Steve Nash knows how to compete. He also knows how to eat – something essential for athletes of any level. The advice he follows by Naturopathic Doctor Suneil Jain includes these simple rules: drink water, consume lean protein and eat fresh foods as often as possible. Below are simple ways that allow you to eat and feel like an athlete.
Have a whole food diet. Reduce the intake of refined processed foods. Whole foods typically do not contain added ingredients, such as sugar, salt, vitamins or fat. Also, be sure to avoid refined sugars. Only consume sugar from natural sources, such as fruits and vegetables.
Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes. Instead of popular sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade, athletes should instead drink coconut water. Coconut water has a mix of electrolytes that help the body absorb water better.
Eat good-quality protein from fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Meat contains protein that is complete. Meaning, all of the essential amino acids that allow your body to use it to repair and rebuild damaged muscle tissue after a workout. Unfortunately, meat is also sometimes high in saturated fat, so if you’re a big meat eater, concentrate on eating lean meats, such as chicken, fish and some cuts of beef.
Eat dates before a competition or exercise. Dates are digested very easily; therefore, they are a great snack for supplying quick energy. They are known to be an excellent cure for intestinal disturbances. Dates also have the ability to regulate a healthy nervous system, thanks to their rich potassium content.
Dr. Jain is the founder of Rejuvena Health & Aesthetics. For more information on Dr. Jain and his practice, please visit werejuvenate.com.
PRE-WORKOUT SHAKES – drink at least halfway prior to workout
Peanut Butter/Banana Shake
1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein (whey, soy or egg protein)
1/2 banana
1 tbsp. peanut butter
1/2 cup raw, uncooked oatmeal (optional)
1 cup skim milk or water
A few ice cubes
Blend and enjoy!
The Simple Shake
1 or 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (whey, soy or egg protein)
A few drops flavored extract, your choice (orange, mint, etc.)
1 cup skim milk or water
A few ice cubes
Blend and enjoy!
POST-WORKOUT SHAKES – drink within an hour after workout
Berry Surprise
1 to 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (whey, soy or egg)
1 tbsp. honey
1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup skim milk or water
A few ice cubes
Blend and enjoy!
Mint Chocolate Shake
1 to 2 scoops vanilla or chocolate protein powder (whey, soy or egg)
1 chocolate graham cracker
A few drops mint extract
1 cup skim milk or water
A few ice cubes
Blend and enjoy!
Shake recipes courtesy of Jason Christopher of the Healthy U. healthyutvshow.com
