For a fun, immuno-boosting dessert, try making pomegranate popsicles. Just pour pomegranate juice into popsicle molds, stick them in the freezer, then enjoy. Lean endurance take;
Pomegranates have long been touted for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and heart-healthy properties.
But perhaps one of the fruit’s best advantages for an athlete is its ability to boost the immune system.
One way to boost that immune system: drink pomegranate juice. One study found that drinking about 3.5 ounces of the juice three times per week strengthens the body’s immunity.
Bright and beautiful curried veggies look even better when you serve them with orange-hued sweet potatoes instead of the usual rice. Sweet potatoes are full of fiber and colorful antioxidants, and they’re the quintessential autumn veggie. Lean endurance take;
Combined with regular exercise, viscous fiber can reduce your rate of fat deposition and absorption in your body
Dietary fiber consumption after a workout may not be the best, since it could lead to stomach cramping and bloating and slows down the rate of nutrient absorption. Your body demands nutrients and fuel to replenish your cells with energy, repair damaged tissues and cool your body temperature after an intense workout.
Other options are better if you have just completed a workout; Consume a meal high in carbohydrates and proteins as soon as you can -- within 45-120 minutes -- after your workout.
The best sources of viscous fiber are from legumes and oats, while non-viscous fiber sources can be obtained from whole-wheat bread and pasta, fruits and leafy vegetables.
Men can consume between 16 to 18 grams of fiber and women consume 12 to 14 grams per day.
Looking for a high-protein meal? Look no further than this recipe, which gives you 20 grams of vegetarian protein per serving, plus tons of fiber to keep you full. Contrary to popular belief, chili doesn’t need to simmer for hours to deliver great flavor. This plant-based black bean chili takes a quick sauté and it’s ready to ladle over the lime-sparked couscous, making a great packable lunch or easy dinner. Lean Endurance take;
Beans and legumes have a number of health benefits, including reducing cholesterol, decreasing blood sugar levels and increasing healthy gut bacteria.
Beans and legumes are the fruits or seeds of a family of plants called Fabaceae. They are commonly eaten around the world and are a rich source of fiber and B vitamins.
They are also a great replacement for meat as a source of vegetarian protein.
Legumes are edible seeds or pods — such as black beans, chickpeas, peas, and even peanuts — that grow from certain plants. They make a good exchange for red meat because they contain many of the same nutrients, but fewer of the drawbacks. Too much red meat in the diet has been linked to numerous harmful health effects.
Move over ramen, there’s a healthier Japanese noodle on our radar. This Japanese-inspired noodle bowl is packed with protein thanks to rotisserie chicken, edamame and soba — nutty-tasting buckwheat noodles. Lean endurance take;
The noodles are gluten-free, contain 6–8 grams of protein per 2-ounce serving and 3 grams of fiber, which helps slow the speed at which carbohydrates are digested, so you’ll eat less and feel full longer. Buy 100% buckwheat flour noodles for the healthiest result and best flavor.
Miso is another functional food in this dish — it is both a prebiotic and a probiotic, which helps the healthy bacteria in your gut.
Savory skillet breakfasts are the antidote to sugary pastries — and this one has no added sugar and gets its sweetness naturally from the sweet potato and beets. This veggie-packed plate keeps you full and energized all morning. Lean endurance take;
Sweet potato is a great source of complex carbohydrate, which is low on the glycaemic index, meaning that it provides sustainable energy
Eating a sweet potato post-workout is ideal as they contain copper, which can help maintain healthy muscle tissue and replenish energy levels. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin C which helps to prevent muscle catabolism (the breakdown of muscle tissue)
Sauteing the steamed vegetable cubes gives them a crispy edge, reminiscent of hash browns, but they’re much better for you.
Start your day off right with breakfast quinoa—a quick, nutritious and filling meal. Enjoy endless variations of fruits, nuts and milks with nutty quinoa. Lean Endurance take;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids..
It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants.
Very High in Fiber, Much Higher Than Most Grains
Gluten-Free
Has a Low Glycemic Index, Which is Good for Blood Sugar Control; think lower insulin which means a higher fat burning daily profile.
High in protein which can both increase metabolism and reduce appetite significantly.
This smoothie delivers a great amount of protein to get you recovered, and it’s easy to put together! This post workout shake is perfect for after a morning workout. It’s also easy to throw in a travel mug and head out the door to start your morning commute. Lean endurance take;
Our bodies need protein for healthy skin, hair, bones, and heart.
a protein-packed breakfast can prevent overeating.
While athletes' protein needs are greater than that of non-athletes, they're not as high as commonly perceived. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day for athletes, depending on training. Protein intake should be spaced throughout the day and after workouts.
Chickpeas are easy to prepare or find and provide the body with a nice balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Lean endurance take;
They help control blood sugar. Both canned and dried chickpeas have a low glycemic index. This means that your body absorbs and digests them slowly. Also, they have a type of starch that digests slowly, called amylose. Both of these things help keep your blood sugar and insulin from going up too fast.
For vitamins and nutrients, one cup of chickpeas has:
About 6% to 8% of your daily requirement of calcium
About 40% of your daily requirement of fiber
About 22% of your daily requirement of iron (for dried cooked chickpeas; 8% for canned)
About 70% of your daily requirement of folate, or folic acid (for dried chickpeas; 15% for canned)
About 39% of your daily requirement of phosphorus (for dried chickpeas; 17% for canned)
Muesli is often likened to granola, but it’s typically a more natural option with less sugar, making it the healthier option of the two. So, why else should you favor this mish-mash first thing in the morning? Here are eight other reasons you should consider this meal replacement option... Lean endurance take;
It’s Healthier Than Other Cereals; Sugary cereals and delicacies from your local doughnut shop may be tempting, but they’re full of sugar, and who knows what else.
Muesli often has less sugar and fewer calories than pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Plus, since you control your concoction, you can make sure nothing processed or full of sugar makes its way into your meal.
It’s High in Fiber and Whole Grains; While it’s hard to gauge exactly how much fiber is in muesli because there are so many different combinations one can make, the dish is typically high in fiber and whole grains — both of which are good for your digestive system. Fiber and whole grains can regulate your digestive tract.
You’ll Stay Fuller, Longer; Not only do fiber and whole grains help keep your tummy in check, they’re also filling. You won’t find yourself starving for a doughnut shortly after eating. Additionally, raw oats contain a ton of resistant starch, making muesli an extremely filling breakfast that takes a long time to digest. As the resistant starch is broken down in your stomach, digestive acids that suppress your appetite are released and your metabolism speeds up, so you’ll burn more calories in less time.
It’s Good for Your Heart
It’s Satisfying
You Can Add Protein…And pretty much whatever else you want! Adding nuts can incorporate protein and omega-3 fatty acids into your breakfast, while other ingredients like fruit can give you a healthy dose of potassium, fiber, vitamin E, C, B-12, and more.
You’ll Avoid Eating Something Unhealthy; By choosing muesli as your go-to breakfast, you’ll save yourself from potentially eating something fattening or full of sugar that could damage your health, and your waistline.
With muesli, you’ll be making a smart breakfast decision that will benefit you all day long.
A small fillet of wild-caught salmon stretches to serve four in the form of lovely little salmon cakes on a salad. Instead of breadcrumbs, you’ll bind them with a bit of whole-grain oats, and if you choose gluten-free oats. Lean endurance take;
A great gluten free option
Fish and shellfish are nutrient dense and salmon is no exception. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins and minerals (including potassium, selenium and vitamin B12)
It is the content of omega-3 fatty acids that receives the most attention, and rightly so. It is this essential fat which is responsible for oily fish’s reputation as a valuable ‘brain food’.
Muscle Recovery — Fish oil helps to reduce the inflammation caused by exercise. This allows for quicker recovery and less muscle soreness. We all need that for those KEY workouts, yes?
Improve Lung Performance — You know that familiar feeling during a run, of having fresh legs, but lacking in the whole breathing department? Fish oil improves blood flow and therefore, oxygen delivery during peak energy intervals.
Joint Health — As we age it is increasingly important to take care of our joints. Omega-3 fatty acid helps to ease joint stiffness and combat chemicals that destroy cartilage.
Loose UNHEALTHY Body Fat — The more in shape you are, the better your athletic performance will be. Fish oil can actually help you lose unhealthy body fat. Remember, we all need fat to run healthy and keep strong, but if you’re looking to get to that healthy body fat, then adding fish to your diet along with proper exercise can help! The DHA found in Omega-3 can also reprogram the genes so that carbohydrates are broken down by the body and not stored as fat.
Heart Health — Of course most of us know fish oil supports heart health, and a healthy heart is imperative for runners. Research has shown that Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can decrease the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.
If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast, make this high-protein chicken salad as an easy lunch option. Lean shredded chicken is combined with creamy yogurt, crispy apples and sweet grapes for a tasty, tangy combo. Serve between 100% whole grain bread and you have a satisfying, packable lunch. If you’d rather go low-carb, you can sub in a side salad instead of the bread. Lean endurance take;
Greek yogurt is a great substitution for mayo which is high in saturated fat.
Examples of foods with saturated fat are:
fatty beef,
lamb,
pork,
poultry with skin,
beef fat (tallow),
lard and cream,
butter,
cheese and
other dairy products made from whole or reduced-fat (2 percent) milk.
Forget traditional fries and ketchup. With 6 grams of fiber per serving and no deep-fryer required, baked sweet potato fries are a great addition to a meal. This recipe also sneaks in some extra vegetables with the spinach dip. Look for garnet yams, a variety of sweet potato with a deep orange flesh, for the most colorful fries. Lean endurance take;
Studies have shown that high-fiber foods may have other heart-healthbenefits, such as reducing blood pressure and inflammation.
Helps control blood sugar levels. ...
A healthy diet that includes insoluble fiber may also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Aids in achieving healthy weight.
With 17 grams of protein in this low-calorie drink offers a filling and healthy breakfast option thats quick to whip up. You can use raspberries, blueberries and strawberries, but any fruit combination would work in this versatile recipe. Lean endurance takeaways;
High in protein to satiate
Lower in total calories based on a lower training volume day or week.
High in fiber; foods containing fiber can provide other health benefits as well, such as helping to maintain a healthy weight and lowering your risk of diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer.
Made with organic ingredients, this all-natural bar is blended, not baked, to retain the highest level of vital nutrients and preserve taste. Lean endurance take;
With over 15 whole foods, these 100% vegan bars combine the tantalizing tastes of whole grain, fruits and nuts for a truly unique flavor experience
PROBAR also requires less hydration to break down than other bars because of the perfect balance of protein and sodium
Low protein ratio is ideal for lasting endurance; low glycemic-index foods keep insulin spiking to a minimum, preventing fast sugar drops (bonking)
Bars make an excellent meal replacement option, providing slow, clean-burning energy throughout the day; combine with fruit or a glass of soy milk
Well-balanced fat content with essential fatty acids, poly- and mono-saturated and unsaturated fats helps curb endless food cravings
The secret to the best grilled peaches is to brush the outside with a little bit of honey, helping the fruit caramelize on the grill. Be sure to clean your grate really well before charring the fruit, too. This gives you more distinct grill marks and ensures your dessert doesn’t taste like last night’s barbecue chicken. Lean Endurance key takeaways;
Fresh fruit post workout to help replenish glycogen stores
Tangy, sweet and refreshing
high in fiber which is great for extra caloric daily burn to process the food
Nutrients in deeply colored fruits and vegetables like beets and cherries can boost athletic performance and help with muscle recovery. Lean endurance take;
Low in sugar but steeped in quality low glycemic carbohydrates, this shake helps to keep total insulin levels low which lead to a leaner body composition.
The mix of ingredients are designed to hep with muscle repair and recovery.
A convenient, portable, and easy meal (or snack) with no cooking skills required
Drinks from smoothie shops often contain more calories and sugar than you'd imagine. It’s easy to make healthy, protein-fortified smoothies if you opt for the DIY approach.
Its a rare occasion that we recommend anything out of a package and that is by any way “processed”. While it is the ideal to eat organic minimally processed foods, engineered foods such as UCAN do have their place in training. This recipe is a slow carb and moderate fat option to help fuel before or during a workout. Lean Endurance takeaways;
Steady energy.
Allows the body to burn fat for fuel due to the very minimal insulin response.
Healthy, efficient calories.
“moves the dial” in the leaning out process and enhances body composition.
Eggs boast a great bioavailability of all nutrients, with the highest content of essential immune acids for instance. What makes them special is their content of nutrients like folic acid, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, B Vitamins and secondary plant products. Lean Endurance takeaways;
Eggs – whether it’s sunny side up, soft-boiled or scrambled – are a great pre-workout snack when consumed one hour before your training.
Watch hard boiled eggs consumed immediately before a workout.. as they can be hard on your stomach and digestion.
If you consider yourself “overweight” or those struggling with high cholesterol levels, one egg per day is a good rule of thumb. Athletes or healthy individuals can even have up to 3 or 4 eggs for breakfast every now and then, provided they like and tolerate eggs.
Cherry tomatoes and baby carrots are miniature sizes of the real deal and pack just as powerful of a punch of healthy nutrients Lean endurance tips;
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and a good source of vitamin K and potassium.
They're low in calories and rich in fiber, potassium and antioxidants.
Fresh tomatoes are low in carbs. The carb content consists mainly of simple sugars and insoluble fibers. These fruits are mostly made up of water - all helpful prior to an activity or as a snack.
High protein ice cream can be a nice treat when kept in moderation. Protein ice cream has quickly become a favorite among dieters searching for a healthier way to satisfy their sweet tooth. Lean endurance take;
As its name implies, protein ice cream is relatively high in protein - great to satisfy and keep up energy levels.
Protein is important to many aspects of your health, including blood vessel function, immune health, and tissue repair
It also plays a central role in muscle-building, which is why it’s generally recommended to consume a good source of protein after resistance training to optimize results
Studies show that whey protein can boost muscle growth, weight loss, and muscle recovery after working out
Protein ice cream is significantly lower in calories than regular varieties.
Cons; Eating even one or two servings of protein ice cream per day can contribute a significant amount of added sugar to your diet, which is why it’s absolutely essential to moderate your intake.
Cons; While protein ice cream contains a good amount of protein in each serving, it typically lacks many other important nutrients that are necessary for a healthy diet. (Again keep it limited but in the arsenal of foods)
