It’s easy to think of food as fuel. It’s also easy to forget that it’s a lot more than that. When most people get home from work or school, they probably aren’t thinking about which foods will help them make gains in the gym. But what you eat can have a huge impact on your training and your results, which is why we’ve compiled this list of staples for any fitness-focused diet.
1. Eggs
Eggs are chock full of protein, so it’s not surprising that they’re one of the best foods you can add to your diet if you’re lifting weights on a regular basis. They’re also rich in vitamin B6, which helps convert some of the protein into energy, and choline, which helps with memory and muscle movement. Eating just a couple of eggs every day will help power you through even the toughest workouts and stave off post-workout fatigue.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal has long been known as one of the healthiest breakfast options out there. Not only does it help reduce cholesterol levels and risk of heart disease, but it also provides your body with slow-releasing carbohydrates that will last all morning without leaving you hungry.
3. Fish
Fish is rich with omega-3 fatty acids, which helps reduce inflammation in your body and makes you feel full longer between meals. Salmon is particularly good because it also contains vitamin D, which helps improve muscle strength and prevent muscle fatigue while you exercise.
4. Nuts
Nuts like almonds and walnuts contain plenty of good fats (the “healthy” kind). Good fats are essential to maintaining healthy nerve function and keeping your heart healthy by lowering harmful cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Walnuts are also high in arginine, an amino acid that helps release growth hormones that promote muscle growth.
