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Are there any vegan athletes and what do they eat to fuel their performance?

Fannye Kermit

Hey there!

Yes, there are many vegan athletes out there who excel in their sports. Some of the most well-known vegan athletes include runners Scott Jurek and Fiona Oakes, bodybuilder Nimai Delgado, and tennis player Venus Williams.

When it comes to fueling their performance, vegan athletes focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods that provide them with the energy and nutrients they need to support their active lifestyles. This typically includes a lot of whole plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

One key nutrient that vegan athletes pay close attention to is protein. While it is a common misconception that vegan diets are lacking in protein, it is actually fairly easy to consume enough protein on a vegan diet as long as one is consuming a variety of plant-based protein sources such as beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, and seeds. Some vegan athletes may also choose to incorporate protein powders or supplements into their diet to ensure they are getting enough.

Another important nutrient for athletes is carbohydrates. Vegan athletes may consume a higher percentage of their calories from carbohydrates compared to the average person, as carbohydrates are the primary source of fuel for intense exercise. Foods such as fruits, starchy vegetables, and whole grains are all great sources of carbohydrates.

Finally, vegan athletes also pay attention to their micronutrient intake, making sure they are getting enough vitamins and minerals to support their overall health and wellbeing. Some key micronutrients for athletes include iron, calcium, and vitamin B12. These can be found in plant-based foods such as leafy greens, fortified plant milks, and nutritional yeast.

Overall, vegan athletes have shown that it is possible to excel in sports while following a plant-based diet. By focusing on consuming nutrient-dense whole foods, staying on top of their protein and carbohydrate intake, and making sure they are getting enough essential micronutrients, vegan athletes are able to perform at the highest levels of their sport.