This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
Published on November 14, 2019, a growing trend among athletes has seen them adopt plant-based diets to enhance their performance.
Notable athletes such as Carl Lewis, Venus Williams, and Lewis Hamilton have publicly credited plant-based diets with improving their athletic performance.
So, what are the benefits of a vegan diet for an athlete?
- Plant-based diets are typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can improve blood thickness, allowing oxygen to reach muscles faster, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and help maintain a healthy weight.
- They have an anti-inflammatory effect and are high in antioxidants, which can increase recovery rates and reduce muscle fatigue.
- As they are typically low in fat and high in fibre, they can help keep body fat down, increasing aerobic capacity (VO2 max) and improving endurance.
- They can also improve blood flow by increasing the diameter and flexibility of arteries.
With these physical benefits, it's no surprise that plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular among athletes and non-athletes alike.
