Are frozen vegetables good for athletes?
In the search for health and sports performance, many athletes have focused on protein, carbohydrates and fats, but they often leave out an essential component: the micronutrients present in vegetables.
To remedy this, in today's society where there is no time for anything, frozen vegetables are a great alternative, since they are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
They are also essential foods to maintain the immune system, reduce inflammation and promote muscle recovery after exercise.
From the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN) they advise us to consume 2-3 servings of vegetables a day, since they have a wide variety of bioactive compounds with numerous beneficial properties for health.
Benefits of frozen vegetables
They retain their nutrients
Studies show that frozen vegetables retain a significant amount of their nutrients.
A study published in theJournal of Food Composition and Agriculture” found that frozen vegetables are as nutritious, and sometimes even more so, than fresh ones.
The reason behind this lies in the deep-freezing process, which blocks the degradation of nutrients and ensures their long-term preservation.
They can be used in any recipe
Frozen vegetables can be used in various ways in the kitchen, whether as a main dish, accompaniment, or even in smoothies, perfect to complement the daily diet before or after doing some type of physical activity.
Vegetables, fruits and much more in frozen products
From iron-loaded spinach to vitamin C or antioxidant-rich bell peppers, these foods provide the nutrients needed to boost energy, recovery and endurance.
How to include frozen vegetables in an athlete's diet?
Pre-workout
Frozen vegetables are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy during exercise. Some ideal options are brown rice, quinoa or whole wheat pasta.
During training:
Frozen vegetables can be a good option to take during training in the form of gels or energy bars.
Post-workout
They are rich in proteins and antioxidants, which are essential for muscle recovery. Some ideal options are spinach, chard or broccoli.
The Spanish Association of Frozen Vegetable Manufacturers (ASEVEC) is a non-profit organization that represents producers and marketers of frozen vegetables in Spain.
ASEVEC works to promote the consumption of frozen vegetables as a healthy, practical and sustainable option.
"Frozen vegetables offer a convenient way to obtain a wide range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining health and optimal sports performance"Says Álvaro Aguilar, general secretary of ASEVEC.
In short, frozen vegetables are a healthy, practical and versatile option to include in anyone's diet, and especially for athletes.
Their high nutrient content makes them an ideal ally to maintain optimal performance and good health.
