The mountain biker’s secret athletic advantage

Health and diet trends come and go faster than a lap of In n’ Out Burger, with everyone blindly chasing down the latest craze.

Amidst the frenzy, people have become so enamoured with what’s hot, that the basic principles of nutrition and timeless wisdom of just eating real food have been lost. The quest for progressive ideas has undoubtedly brought about positive changes in many aspects of our lives. However, in our eagerness to embrace new ideas, we’ve lost touch with reality.

Take, for instance, the rise of plant-based diets as a symbol of environmental sustainability and healthy eating. As an early adopter of Plant-Based eating , I’ve watched this movement transform from a down-to-earth approach of eat more plants instead of meat; into lab-created vegan meats, chemical-formulated egg simulations, and a complete departure far beyond the Earth, into the cosmic realms of nutrition lunacy.

Certain supplements can have their purpose and place, but they aren’t a replacement for good old-fashioned common sense nutrition — the ultimate athletic advantage. At the heart of healthy athletic performance is simplicity. Remove alcohol/drugs, processed foods, sugars; get a bit more sleep, and eat real food. 

This uncomplicated approach prioritizes plant-based foods in their natural state; such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. And I know this will blow your sweaty bike socks right off, but did you know that real foods is loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre, all of which are essential for optimal health and longevity?! Not only that, they offer numerous other health benefits, including lowering cholesterol levels, improving cardiovascular health, supporting muscle growth, and aiding in weight management.

Whole Foods for Athletic Performance 

1. Nutrient Density: Real food, in its unprocessed and natural state, is packed with essential nutrients. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts offer a diverse array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support optimal physical function.
2. Sustainable Energy: Real food provides a steady and sustainable source of energy, crucial for athletes during training and competition. Complex carbohydrates from sources like sweet potatoes and quinoa, coupled with healthy fats from avocados and olive oil, keep your energy levels stable and your performance consistent.
3. Gut Health: Forget the probiotic drinks. Real food, especially fibre-rich vegetables, legumes and fruits, promotes a diverse and thriving gut microbiota, leading to better nutrient absorption and overall well-being.
4. Inflammation Support: Anti-inflammatory support can be found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids.
5. Hydration: Proper hydration can be supported with real food such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges; not only that, they also provide essential electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium, crucial for muscle function and hydration balance.
6. Mental Clarity and Focus: Real food enhances mental clarity and focus. Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like walnuts and flaxseeds support brain health, while antioxidants from fruits and vegetables protect against oxidative stress, keeping your mind sharp during training and competition.

In conclusion, the secret athletic advantage lies in the simplicity and authenticity of real food. Athletes can optimize their performance, enhance recovery, and promote long-term health through this basic strategy.