Fueling an Athlete with Herbs and Supplements!
An athlete’s body is not average, so we need to stop treating it like it is! Whether you are burning through 3,000 calories during a long ride or run, swimming, or completing an explosive sprint workout or weight lift, it is vital to ingest the necessary calories and nutrients to optimize performance and reduce recovery time. High soil nutrient deficiency and industrialized meats result in fewer nutrients in our food. We don’t want to supplement. However, due to the amount of stress we put on our bodies, it can be nearly impossible to keep up with the nutritional demands by eating a well balanced diet alone. (Plus…I don’t think it’s actually possible to eat that much food!)
Yet, the world of sports nutrition and supplements can be terrifying! So many mainstream products leave us questioning their sustainability, quality and efficacy. Even though few studies have been done to substantiate the use of herbs or supplements for sports performance, athletes around the world would tell you a different story through their own experimentation and positive results. Herbs and supplements can increase stamina, endurance and focus during a workout as well as reduce recovery time and incidence of injury. Community Pharmacy has high quality products that are sourced sustainably at a good price that you may find are perfect for you and your lifestyle.
The following is a short list of the herbs and supplements that I find increase my energy and endurance while also reducing recovery time and the incidence of injury:
Fish oil is a fantastic, gentle anti-inflammatory! Choose one high in EPA to support the natural inflammation that occurs in the body as a result of muscle strain. Nordic Naturals is a great company with high quality and sustainably produced products.
Turmeric is a clinically studied herb used to manage inflammation and pain. Gaia’s Turmeric Supreme has been a terrific support for injury prevention and recovery for myself and my peers.
Adaptogens help the body more efficiently adapt to the stress hormones we produce as a result of intense physical activity and everyday stressors. Great choices for athletes are: rhodiola, ashwagandha, American ginseng and cordyceps. Gaia’s Adrenal Health is an herbal blend that greatly reduces my recovery time and provides me with constant energy and focus to get through my day and workouts.
Protein powder may seem like a no-brainer. But choose a high quality protein with a complete amino profile and added glutamine. It will help maintain high immune function while also providing the necessary building blocks for muscles to rebuild and recover. Check out Tera’s Whey, Vega, and Raw.
By Nicole T. Hare, Cooperator