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.

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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