How to be vegan like an Olympian!

You heard the myths:

• You need protein to survive

• You can’t be vegan and build muscle

• You can’t be a vegan an athlete

These myths can be discouraging to any vegan athlete or any vegan for that matter. Luckily, these myths are not true. Proof?

According to a research conducted by Sports Science, a lacto-vegetarian diet can provide all the nutrients required for optimal health. In fact, reports suggest that many successful elite strength athletes follow a vegetarian/vegan diet. And if that’s not enough proof, there are many athletes and Olympians that prove that a vegan diet doesn’t hinder their performance. Some credit their vegan/ vegetarian lifestyle to their athletic success.

For example, Kendrick Farris is Team USA’s only male weight lifter at the Rio Olympics. However, it was met which much surprise when he revealed he followed a vegan diet. And he’s not the only Olympian to follow suit! From swimmers to snowboarders, Olympians are crediting their vegan diets to gold medal success! To name a few of the vegan/vegetarian Olympic medalists:

• Alexey Voyevoda- Bobsledder

• Bode Miller- Downhill Skier (winter Olympics)

• Martina Navratilova- Tennis Player

• Murray Rose- Swimmer

So, if the vegan diet is garnering Olympic medal success, what do these Olympians actually eat? While everyone’s fitness and diet goals are different, it’s safe to say they stick to a plant based diet full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Some of the vegan athletes have expressed their love for some of the following foods:

• Beans and Lentils

• Avocados

• Mixed nuts

• Fruits and Vegetables

• Dairy Free Products

And for good reason. Most of these vegan’s food, along with an active lifestyle and exercised has helped:

• Increase endurance

• Reduce body fat

• Improve cardiovascular health

• Improves energy

Whether you are training to be the next Olympic medalist winner or you just want to adopt a healthy lifestyle, adopting a vegan diet is the way to go.