Nutrition is a sensitive topic, and I respect that. We all have our beliefs, habits, and food preferences. My purpose is not to change your diet, but to help you make the best choices for your desired lifestyle as it relates to running and longevity.
So, let's discuss a couple of foods with unique properties. One is a food that most of us wouldn't even consider a food. The other is a category of vegetables with unique longevity properties.
Let's start with the category because you know these vegetables, but the seldom discussed category is what sets them apart.
#1. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are a category that includes broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. They are all composed of glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds unique to this family of plants.
When consumed, glucosinolates are broken down into cancer-fighting properties. So, if you plan to age long and well, these foods should interest you.
#2. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is not what most people would consider a food, but that should change once you understand its nutritional profile. You should purchase flaxseed crushed, in a meal form, to readily access its benefits.
a. Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseed is one of the richest plant sources of Omega-3s. These are the essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own, so they must be obtained from the diet.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and muscle and joint pain, while speeding up recovery time. That alone should be enough for runners to consider adding it to their daily diet.
b. Plant-Based Source of Good Fats
Flaxseed replenishes the good fats that are vitally important for endurance. These good fats also contribute to our HDL cholesterol – that's the good cholesterol that maintains healthy blood pressure, and lowers triglyceride levels.