If you thought meat was the protein of choice for pro athletes, think again. More and more people are eating plant-based diets — here are 6 vegan and vegetarian athletes.
A plant-based diet contains all the nutrients and proteins needed to keep your body healthy and strong. These American athletes are at the top of their game, proving day in and day out that plant-based diets give them all the power they need. Read on to learn why these American sports stars switched to vegan or vegetarian diets and how it improved their health and performance.
1. Venus Williams
Widely considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, Venus Williams has achieved global success while sticking to a vegan diet.
In 2011 Williams was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, causing her to suffer from extreme joint pain and fatigue. Doctors advised that she switch to a raw vegan diet to maintain and improve her performance, and she has never looked back.
Williams has now been vegan for over a decade. Though she isn’t against the occasional cheat snack, she has spoken in many interviews about the positive impact veganism has had on her overall health.
2. Hannah Teter
This two-time Olympic snowboarding medalist and Grand Prix half-pipe champion not only loves snowboarding but animals as well — so much so that in 2008 she became vegetarian, and has since transitioned to veganism. Teter believes that the plant-based diet helped her reach the Olympic podium and improves her physical and mental well-being.
3. Kyrie Irving
The success of this basketball champion’s career can be tied to his switch to a vegan diet in 2017. Veganism has boosted Irving’s energy during games and in everyday life, and he’s been a vocal supporter of plant-based diets. Safe to say Irving won’t be switching back to meat any time soon.
4. Alex Morgan
Alex Morgan is a role model for all budding vegan athletes out there. This U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team star adopted a vegan diet in 2017 for ethical reasons and says it helps her recover faster and gives her more energy. According to Morgan, she has never felt healthier, fitter or leaner.
5. Justin Fields
Doing a 28-day plant-based detox with his family in 2020, Fields now eats mostly vegan and plant-based and encourages other NFL players to do the same. He loves the effects it has on his performance, health and mental attitude.
6. Scott Jurek
This ultrarunner is living proof that you absolutely do not need to consume meat or animal products to reach peak fitness. Jurek has shown the world that gaining muscle mass and performing at the very top of your game in a power sport like ultrarunning can be done on a fully vegan diet.
Read more:
- The Vegan Food Pyramid: 6 Steps to a Balanced Vegan Diet
- 8 Benefits of Being Vegan and Potential Drawbacks
- Cold Water Swimming: Why You Should Try It
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