Pro Cheer Nutrition: Healthy Grocery Items You Should Be Adding to Your Cart
“What should I put in my grocery shopping cart to be healthy?” If you’re asking yourself this question, you’re not alone. A lot of people (including athletes like yourself) can find grocery shopping intimidating and overwhelming.
Not to mention, there are lots of options available that can make it difficult for us to truly know which ones will benefit our bodies the most. The key is to start with a definitive shopping list that includes mostly whole foods (protein, healthy fats, and unprocessed carbohydrates). If you need ideas, start with the options below!
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are filling and are a great post-workout meal since they contain carbohydrates. They’re also a good source of minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which support muscle function.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help deliver oxygen to your skeletal muscles during exercise. Study shows that omega-3s also improve focused attention and vigilance. You need these to help with your dance practices and audition prep.
Eggs
Eggs are a superfood. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a pre-workout snack since they contain healthy amounts of protein and fats. Egg whites, in particular, contain the amino acid proline which helps with collagen production. Collagen is vital for skin elasticity and stronger joints.
Avocados
Avocados are not only rich in fiber, which helps you feel satiated, but they contain lots of monounsaturated fats that reduce bad cholesterol levels and provide your body with energy (if you’re on a low-carb diet). If you’re looking for fun ways to eat avocados, try stuffing them with eggs and bacon bits or add some avocado slices to your salads!
Whole wheat bread
Whole wheat bread is popular for a lot of athletes since it provides energy-boosting carbohydrates and is a convenient source of fuel. You can top a slice of bread with peanut butter and bananas for a protein and potassium boost before or after an intense activity.
Protein powder
If you’re trying to increase your protein intake or have difficulty meeting your protein needs through diet alone, consider supplementing with protein. Whey protein has many evidence-based benefits for pro cheerleaders and dancers, such as muscle preservation, weight loss, increased energy, and improved satiety.
Final Thoughts
These options are just a start. Of course, you’ll need to include items like herbs, spices, leafy vegetables, and fruits to complete your menu and make the meals you’d like to cook. Also, if you’re new to meal prepping, you might want to start slowly with just a few meals. Keep it simple. More importantly, learn how to read the labels of packaged items, since these things may contain added sugars and highly processed oils. It’s best to avoid them for your long-term health.
Get Our Pro Cheerleading Top
Hey, ladies!!! 👋 Do you need a pro-cheer-inspired top to wear during your workout or next summer camp? I designed the perfect shirt for these important occasions. You can even wear it on a regular day to express yourself. Choose from 5 great colors: White, Baby Blue, Cranberry, Silver, and Lemon.
