Nutrition Secrets of Plant-Based Athletes (VZ 59)

It is a widely-held misconception that the terms “vegetarian” or “vegan” and “athlete” don’t belong together.  Isn’t it true that athletes need a lot more protein than other people, and that animal protein is the best (or only) viable source?  And what about calories?  How can a person possibly consume enough calories to support a highly active body if they eat only plants?

 

Quite easily, actually!  A diet free of animal products can provide plenty of protein, and without the added fat and cholesterol found in meat (and it’s cruelty-free!).  Eating a range of healthy plant-based fats, such as those found in avocados and nuts, will help ensure athletes are consuming enough calories.

 

In this episode of the podcast, we discuss various aspects of being a plant-based athlete.  We offer an overview of what a balanced vegan diet really is, and talk about protein, calories and carbohydrates.  We also review some of the challenges vegetarian and vegan athletes face, and offer tips to overcome them.

 

 

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review.

 

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Here’s what we mention in this episode:

• LiveStrong
• No Meat Athlete
  • Matt Frazier
  • Book: No Meat Athlete: Run on Plants and Discover Your Fittest, Fastest, Happiest Self
• Brendan Brazier
  • Book:Thrive: The Vegan Nutrition Guide to Optimal Performance in Sports and Life
• Vegan Athletes:
  • Scott Jurek
  • Rich Roll

 

Quote of the Week

Eliminating animal products from your diet does not mean you will be protein-deficient or miss out on nutrition. It is an opportunity to take control of what you eat and maximize the health benefits of a balanced, well-planned diet.

— article on livestrong.com

Recipe of the Week

• Nana’s Molasses Cookies

Resources

•  The High-Performance Vegan Athlete: It Is Possible!
• The Vegetarian Athlete Diet
• Great Vegan Athletes
• Vegan Diets for Athletes

Thanks for listening!

Peace and Veggies,
Vickie and Larissa