Vitamin A is crucial for athletes’ overall health and performance. It supports healthy skin and vision, promotes cell growth, and helps repair tissue. Athletes can include vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach to meet their daily intake.
Vitamin B6 is essential for athletes as it fuels energy production and converts carbohydrates into usable energy. It also supports cognitive function, mental focus, and the production of healthy red blood cells.
Athletes can get vitamin B6 from poultry, fish, bananas, and chickpeas.
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones. It also supports the immune system, reducing the risk of illness among athletes. Deficiency is common, especially in athletes with limited sun exposure. Natural sources include sunlight and fatty fish like salmon.
Vitamin D is an umbrella term for D2 and D3 vitamins. D3 tends to be more prevalent in supplement form as the body absorbs it more effectively than D2. My Armor carries a vitamin D3 supplement that supports athletes with a vitamin D deficiency, particularly those who train during the winter months.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that defends against oxidative stress, protects cells from damage, aids muscle recovery, and reduces inflammation. By maintaining adequate levels of vitamin E, athletes can improve endurance and reduce muscle soreness. Good food sources include nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Vitamin K is essential for maintaining healthy bones and promoting blood clotting, which is crucial for preventing injuries.
Athletes, especially those involved in high-impact activities involving a lot of running, should include leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach to ensure sufficient vitamin K intake. Prioritizing vitamin K can help athletes support bone health.
