CrossFit is the new exercise regime designed to give you fitness functional for everyday life. It is touted for its ability to help people who are regularly engaged in very physical activities (think military, police and fire personnel) to become more fit in a way that involves their entire being; however, it is also good for anyone who is looking for a program that simply gets them fit inside and out.
The CrossFit Diet
Although CrossFit is thought of as physical fitness based, it is diet based as well. After all, you are only as efficient as the foods you consume so you need to eat the best foods to get the best results.
Which foods are the best?
- Vegetables – Loaded with a variety of vitamins and minerals, this key food group helps your body sustain vigorous workouts and recover in minimal time. Stick with a lot of leafy greens and avoid the vegetables that are higher in starch, such as potatoes and corn.
- Complex Carbohydrates – Include whole wheat and whole grains into your diet (roughly 40% of your daily caloric intake) and you’ll keep your body healthy and strong. Stay away from refined carbs, such as candy, cakes, chips and other processed foods (like frozen dinners or meals in a can) as they lack the nutrients you need and often contain a lot of sugar and/or salt.
- Lean Proteins – To get the most from your CrossFit routine, you’ll want around 30% of your calories to be lean proteins. This includes eating foods such as lean beef and pork, chicken, turkey, fish and shellfish, as well as nuts and seeds (salt-free).
- Fat – Yes, you are going to want to take in some fat as your body does need it to function. Stick with healthy options like olive oil and include the fat that you take in via the heart healthy nuts, seeds and fatty fish you consume. Aim for 30% or less of your daily calories to be fat.
Eat foods in these four categories and you’ll get more from your CrossFit routine. The results will speak for themselves!
