When it comes to being an athlete, it's the norm to feel like you've been hit by a truck after a long week of games and practice. As a student-athlete, you have to have a quick turn around and be ready to do it all over again next week; there is no time to be sore. That being said, here are the 6 best foods you can eat to help support muscle recovery and repair to help your body survive the busy season.
Cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is a great source of whey protein and is known for its role in replenishing muscles after an intense workout. Cottage cheese also contains casein protein, which aids in muscle recovery while you sleep.
Related: Fueling Your Body for Performance
Turmeric: Turmeric is amazing for muscle recovery because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Throw it in a smoothie, sprinkle it on some veggies, or add it to your soup. There are so many ways you can incorporate turmeric.
Sweet potato: It is important to replenish our carbohydrates after a game or workout. Sweet potatoes are high in complex carbohydrates.
Related: Carbohydrates: What They Are, and Why Athletes Need Them
Watermelon: There is a reason you see so many athletes eating watermelon between games. Besides being extremely tasty and refreshing, watermelon is a fantastic source of hydration because it is 92% water. Watermelon also contains magnesium which aids in muscle recovery.
Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of protein, and our muscle's desperately need protein to recover. Consuming eggs will give your body the necessary amino acids it needs to repair muscle tissue.
Related: Why Athletes Need Protein: Muscle Repair and Growth
Spinach: It's no secret as to why Popeye consumed so much spinach, THE MUSCLES. Spinach contains vitamin A, C, K1, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Spinach is also a great source of electrolytes which our bodies need after a workout due to dehydration.
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* Originally published on January 28, 2022, by Madison Machado
