Add "superfoods" to your diet to improve your workout performance. Superfoods are loaded with nutrients that provide energy, help prevent diseases and decrease aging's effects. Superfoods are low in calories, high in nutrients, natural and unprocessed. They provide anti-oxidants and essential vitamins and minerals that most Americans do not consume enough of. Many health food stores carry superfoods.
Green Superfoods
Foods that fall in this category are easily digestible and have the highest amounts of vitamins and minerals that protect and heal the body. Green superfoods contain high levels of chlorophyll, which helps in men's hemoglobin production. Men able to produce more hemoglobin will be more efficient in distributing blood and oxygen throughout the body during a workout. After a workout, men need nutrients that help repair the damage. Some examples of green superfoods are spinach, parsley, broccoli sprouts and kale. Although not very common, wheat grass contains high levels of enzymes that stimulate metabolism and help men lose weight.
Maca Root
Maca root -- a Peru import that has been consumed for more than 2,000 years -- typically is sold as a powder that can be mixed into beverages or in your favorite recipe. Maca contains antioxidants, protein, fiber and calcium. It purportedly increases energy levels and endurance abilities and enhances the immune system. Mix a scoop of maca into a fruit smoothie for an extra boost during your workout.
Goji Berries
Coming from Mongolia's inner valleys, the goji berry contains more vitamin C than any other fruit and has 20 amino acids and high levels of B vitamins. Vitamin C helps protect cells against damage from free radicals, increasing energy levels. Goji berries' natural sugars help reduce insulin resistance and help prevent against diabetes and other diseases. Mix goji berries in your oatmeal, yogurt or enjoy them by themselves.
Bee Pollen
Many people eat honey but bee pollen has more health benefits. It contains 22 amino acids, 18 vitamins and 25 minerals that can help improve physical performance. In Chinese medicine, bee pollen is used as an energy and nutritional element. Alex Woodly of the Education Athletic Club in Philadelphia reported strength and stamina increases 25 percent by individuals who consume bee pollen. Introduce bee pollen -- which comes as granules -- into your diet slowly, using only one or two granules to start with. To add bee pollen to your diet, stir into yogurt, eat with peanut butter or use just as you would honey.
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