When you think of the food that powers a winning football team, you can picture huge plates of steak and endless hard-boiled eggs.
But for the Philadelphia Eagles, nutrition and performance go beyond the usual suspects. Our chefs and nutrition team carefully plan each meal to maximize energy, endurance and recovery.
“Nutrition is key to energy, stamina and longevity in the field,” said Team Chef James Searles myfitnesspal (He is proud Philadelphia Eagles nutrition tracking app). “There are a lot of factors that go into shaping the nutritional needs of an elite athlete…Athletes understand how big a role nutrition plays in maintaining strength.”
And some of Eagle's MVP foods are definitely not what you think. Here are five unexpected foods and drinks that give the Eagles an edge on and off the field:
1. Quinoa for breakfast
Move over, oatmeal. Quinoa is the star ingredient in the Eagles' morning meals.
“Quinoa is a staple in the breakfast rotation of eagles because of its versatility and nutrient density,” says Sirles. Some guys opt for a protein-packed breakfast bowl with scrambled eggs, sauteed vegetables, and avocado, while others enjoy it as warm porridge with almond milk, fresh berries, and honey.
You can also use quinoa to make healthier versions of breakfast classics such as Pancakesand Cakesand Retail.
“Quinoa is a major player because it offers complete protein and slow carbohydrates to smooth out morning workouts or recovery sessions,” explains Sirles.
2. Beet juice for endurance
When they get into a brawl or need a pick-me-up, players don't always turn to sports drinks or… Protein shake. They reach for beet juice.
You read that right: One of the drinks the team is tracking is red beet juice.
(“It's a favorite among players because it's rich in nitrates, which improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, enhancing endurance and stamina,” says Sirles.1and 2).
This is a huge benefit for gamers who need to maintain peak performance throughout long, high-intensity games.
3. Tart cherry juice for healing
There is another important but unusual juice in the rotation for players. Tart cherry juice.
“This anti-inflammatory powerhouse is a secret weapon for muscle soreness reduction and improvement Sleep quality(“This is critical for recovery during a busy season,” says Sirles.3and 4).
Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory properties help players recover faster from strenuous training and games, leaving them ready for whatever comes next in the season (5).
4. Kimchi and pickle mix for gut health
Fermented foods like Kimchi and Sanerkraut may not be the first things you associate with football, but these traditional cabbage dishes help give Eagle players an edge.
“Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which Support gut health And immune function. Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says) (Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles says (Sirles says) Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says Sirles Says A healthy gut is vital for absorbing nutrients and keeping players ready “For games.”6).
“The human gut microbiome does more than digest food — it plays an important role in athletic performance,” says Melissa Jaeger, R.D., nutritionist and head of nutrition for MyFitnesspal.
“Our gut supports nutrient absorption, metabolism, and plays a role in regulating inflammation, all of which are essential to helping athletes like the Eagles perform their best,” she explains (7).
5. Sweet potatoes for steady energy
“These are complex carbohydrates for sustained energy,” Searles said.
They are also full of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants to support overall health. Whether mashed, roasted, or baked into a side dish, sweet potatoes help players maintain focus and stamina through four quarters and into overtime.
Eagle Feeder Pins
Along with these unexpected selections, Eagles Cafeteria is always stocked with great nutrition basics, including:
- Lean Protein: Grilled chicken and salmon are must-haves for muscle recovery and repair.
- Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt is a go-to snack, often paired with granola, nuts, or seeds for extra nutrients and crunch.
- Trail mix and Protein bars: These convenient, portable snacks keep players active between meals.
- Fruit with Nut Butter: Bananas, apples, and oranges paired with almonds or peanut butter provide a quick, nutrient-dense energy boost.
- Hydration Stations: Water, electrolyte-boosted drinks, and juices are on hand to help players stay hydrated and replenish lost nutrients.
Although the rest of us may not be training for the big game, there is a lot to learn from the Eagles' approach to nutrition.
Add all these powerful foods to your diet (and Track your meals to help improve nutrition!) They can help improve energy, recovery, and overall health – just like the pros.
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