Diet and exercise always go together. So if you can’t grow muscles even after much intense training or you’re too exhausted to go to the gym, odds are your workout isn’t the problem, but what you put into your mouth. Read this article and add these 7 dynamic foods to maximize your workouts.
- Eggs
Why: Eggs are a complete source of protein with 9 important amino plus branched-chain amino acids to ease muscle damage and for quicker recuperation. Keep the yolk if you want to get the most out of your eggs as it has half the protein and omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin D as well.
The perfect way to eat it: Anyway you like it!
- Avocado
Why: Avocado contains monounsaturated fat (good fat) essential for repairing muscles and joints and B vitamins to kick-start your metabolism so all those healthy carbs and protein will be put to good use.
The perfect way to eat it: Add it into your omelet or make a smoothie.
- Sweet Potato
Why: A rich source of carbs. A plant-based carb is essential if you’re doing intense exercises. Sweet potato is a superfood that packs vitamin A and 26 g of carbs to restore your glycogen supply. It’s also loaded with fiber which will keep you full, reducing hunger pangs.
The perfect way to eat it: Anyway you like it as long as you take one sweet potato after a workout.
- Cherry Juice
Why: Cherry contains antioxidants that prevent muscle damage. Studies suggest drinking 24 oz. of tart cherry juice a day will help reduce sore muscles and keep your strength intact even after training.
The perfect way to drink it: Go for fresh juices instead of concentrated ones as they contain anthocyanin and flavonoids usually found in cherries.
- Chocolate Milk
Why: Keeps you hydrated especially after a bout of intense training and the nutrients in it will help in your recovery. Plus, it’s loaded with calcium, healthy fats, and whey protein making it a must-have in your diet.
The perfect way to drink it: Try whipping up this recipe in your kitchen. It contains sweet potatoes making it jam-packed with vitamins and nutrients!
- Green Tea
Why: Green tea is a great energy booster and it contains potent antioxidants which have fat-burning, free-radical-combatting compounds to prevent inflammation and muscle pain.
The perfect way to drink it: Drink it the way you drink your tea. You may add in ginger for that extra kick.
- Whey
Why: Protein is a crucial nutrient when you’re trying to put on muscles. It blasts fat, gives you energy, and boosts, and protects your immune system. 1 scoop of whey is equivalent to the amount of protein found in a whole chicken breast. You also burn twice the fat when supplementing with whey.
The perfect way to eat it: Pair your protein powder with carb-loaded foods such as a bowl of polenta or shakes.
That’s it! These powerhouse foods will help your muscles grow, burn fat and increase your energy levels so you can finally reach that fit and ripped body you’ve been dreaming of.
