When you’re focusing on food for muscle recovery, carbohydrates and protein are stars of the show. But there are some other nutrient-dense foods that shouldn’t be overlooked. Enter blueberries.
When people think about fueling for recovery after exercise, the first thing that comes to mind is often a protein shake. Protein shakes are a good option, but they aren’t the only way you can refuel after exercise. Let’s grab a boost of blue, and shake things up with blueberries.
As a Blue Crew Ambassador, I have partnered with the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council to share with you the benefits of blueberries for muscle recovery.
Refueling for Exercise Recovery
Why do we need to refuel? Believe it or not, exercise can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and oxidative damage, which can slow down recovery. But this stress is needed.
For example, when you exercise you break down muscle fibers. That’s stress right there. However, if you don’t break down muscle fibers, you won’t grow muscle. You have to break to grow.
Benefits of Blueberries for Exercise Recovery
Researchers are exploring how blueberries can help with exercise recovery. The good news is that blueberries provide essential nutrients – manganese, vitamin C, and polyphenols, including anthocyanins. These can help combat the impact of exercise due to their antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Food for Muscle Recovery
While blueberries are delicious eaten fresh and paired with a protein source and additional carbs, I have a delicious meal that can be one of your new go-to recovery meals.
For more about blueberries, visit U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.
