In addition to using acupuncture and other forms of traditional Chinese medicine, there are other ways athletes seek to up their game. One of the simplest ways to increase performance is by watching what you are consuming. You ever heard the saying you are what you eat? Chances are you have, if not, well I am glad that now you have, because there could not be a truer statement.
By watching what we put into our bodies we can increase athletic performance in addition to living a healthier life. There are little additions you can make to foods and snacks within your normal dietary routine which will increase performance and Chinese herbal medicines are one of the most important things to add to your diet in order to better your physical potential.
Arnica
Arnica is an herb native to the mountains known for its healing properties. Arnica is utilized by many distance runners. It is known to reduce and heal muscle soreness, which is pent up after long-distance runs. Some popular ways arnica is consumed is through teas and dairy-based desserts. It will help your muscles so you can sustain a high level of athletic performance.
Astragalus
Ah, another fun name to say. But, a very beneficial name to be saying, it is always good to have astragalus around the house. This Chinese herb is known to boost overall health and goes by the names Huang Chi or Huang Qi. With names like that, which directly apply to energy, you know it is a good choice to increase your performance.
Now lets look at some specific foods to add to your diet in order to boost energy and performance levels.
Beets
Beetroot contains lots of nitrates and does wonders for your circulatory system, this is key for an athlete. You need to have a healthy, functioning circulatory system in order to complete the tasks you wish to accomplish, and adding a steady dose of this veggie to your diet will help.
Salmon
How many times can you say Omega-3s? Omega-3s, Omega-3s, Omega-3s. What a coincidence, three times! But, truthfully you could say Omega-3s much more than this amount. Salmon, like most fish, is packed full of these fatty acids, which are great for muscle repair and anti-inflammatory properties.
Whether it be adding powerful-enhancing traditional Chinese herbs to your day to day routine, or changing some of the foods you eat within your diet, there are vast amounts of ways to up your game naturally. We are barely scratching the surface with this list. Don’t forget, acupuncture and holistic healing are also some of the best ways to increase athletic performance.
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Michael McClure is a licensed acupuncturist working out of North Olmsted, OH. For more information please contact Michael or visit his site here.
Email: McClureAcupuncture@gmail.com
Phone: 440-777-2811
Address:
2185 Lorain Road
North Olmsted, OH 44070
