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Vegan Nutrition for Athletes

A Plant-Based Diet Is an Optimal Sports Diet

A plant-based diet provides all of the nutrients your body needs for training and competition.

Because a plant-based diet is high in carbohydrates, low in fat, and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it can support or improve your athletic performance. A Physicians Committee study published in the journal Nutrients found that plant-based athletes benefit from improvements in heart health, performance, and recovery.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the primary fuel used during high-intensity exercise. Evidence shows that adding carbohydrates to your diet improves endurance and performance. On a per-calorie basis, carbohydrate needs for athletes are similar to those for anyone else. Specific recommendations for athletes are based on weight and activity type. If exercise is strenuous and repetitive, such as training for a marathon, then carbohydrate timing may be useful, e.g., carb loading pre-event and carb timing post-event. Otherwise, such strategizing with carbohydrate intake is unnecessary.

Protein

Compared with carbohydrates, protein is used only minimally for fuel. Its primary function is building and maintaining body tissue. Plant-based protein sources are best because, unlike animal sources, they contain fiber and complex carbohydrates. The recommended dietary allowance for the average, sedentary or lightly active adult is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. For most people, this is more than enough. However, protein needs for athletes may range from 1.2 to 1.7 grams per kilogram of body weight per day.

Athletes looking for additional protein can get an extra boost from beans, nondairy milks, nuts, seeds, and soy products, including tofu, tempeh, and veggie burgers.

Fat

High-fat diets are not recommended for athletes. Animal products are high in saturated fat, which can lead to heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, and other chronic conditions.

Food Power for Athletes

Food Power for Athletes Book

Download our free e-book to learn how plant-based foods can fuel athletic performance and to get started with plant-powered recipes! Fill out the form below and the download link will be delivered to your email inbox.

A Vegan Diet Benefits Athletes

A Physicians Committee review shows plant-based athletes benefit from improvements in heart health, performance, and recovery.

Resource

Nutrition for Athletes Kit

If you or someone you know is wondering how a plant based diet can work with their physical activities, this kit has what you need.

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