Nuts and Seeds – An Essential Snack for Swimmers

As swimmers, nuts and seeds will help us achieve our best performance each time we hit the pool. We do this by training on a regular basis and by eating a healthy diet full of nutrition. One of the healthiest foods you can eat is full of energy value. These nutrient rich foods actually have a number of benefits for you in the pool.

The first benefit to swimmers is perhaps the most obvious. While you’re swimming laps, you’ll want something to replenish your energy. These small and chewy plant pieces contain calories, and nutrients that can help to re-energize your body. That way, you’re ready to hit the pool again in no time, without being weighed down by another heavy meal.

Beneficial Micronutrients in Nuts and Seeds

They are also high in micronutrients. These nutrients are essential for the health and well being of everyone, not just swimmers. A serving of nuts and seeds contains phytosterols, arginine, potassium, calcium, selenium, carotenoids, flavonoids and other essential nutrients that help your body to heal properly and for you to lose weight, and build muscle mass at the same time.

Swimmers should note that while they are nutritionally sound, they are also high in fat and calories. But when eaten in moderation, you can truly benefit from both and experience better toning, and more energy when you hit the water.

Your Healthy Weight

When you’re fully energized, at a healthy weight, and well nourished by these nuts and seeds, you’ll see results in the pool. You’ll find that you can swim faster, go harder for longer, and improve on your skills in the water. Many people also find that these healthier snack choices allow them to clear their mind and to focus more. This allows you to give everything you have in the water, so you are making an impact each time you end up going head to head against other swimmers.

Aside from the weight loss and muscle building benefits of these nuts and seeds, swimmers will also find that several of the nuts also help to provide additional benefits.

Pistachios are high in plant sterols which is good for cholesterol. They also help to reduce inflammation in the body. This means there is less of a risk for injury or being sidelined when you put your all into an exercise in the water. You’ll also find that you recover faster.
Walnuts help with blood pressure and the functioning of blood vessels. After you’ve worked out and are building muscle mass, this can help with the healing process. That makes this an exceptional choice for anyone who is looking to maximize their efforts in the pool.
Flax seed and chia seeds contain incredibly high levels of protein. As you know protein is an essential nutrient for athletes looking to improve their muscle mass and overall physical fitness levels. That makes these seeds an essential choice for your diet.

As you can see there are plenty of benefits to swimmers when it comes to nuts and seeds. Take a moment to find your favorite selection of these foods and do what you can to keep your body healthy and fueled.