Most basketball players love snacks. But most snack foods aren’t healthy for athletes. In fact, many of these unhealthy snacks can make you gain weight while playing sports. There are healthier alternatives to traditional junk food that will help you get leaner and stronger. Here are 13 healthy snacks for basketball players.
You’ll learn how to choose the perfect snack for your body type and how to prepare it properly. Plus, you’ll find out how to pack a nutritious meal with just a few simple ingredients.
I’m going to teach you everything you need to know to become a pro athlete without gaining any unwanted pounds.
13 Healthy Snacks for Basketball Players
Those snacks that give you a healthy body by providing enough energy to play basketball with high stamina and no weight gain can be termed healthy snacks for basketball players. Below are some experts recommended and doctors-tested snacks that will be healthy snacks for any game players.
1) Banana Chips
Bananas are one of my favorite fruits because they’re so versatile. You can eat them plain or add some cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra kick!
Why Banana Chips
- They’re low in calories (only about 60 per cup).
- They have lots of potassium which helps keep muscles strong.
- They contain fiber which keeps you full longer.
- They’re high in vitamin B6 which is great for energy levels.
How To Make Banana Chips
- Peel bananas and cut them into slices.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes.
- Flip over chips and bake another 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
Tip: If you don’t like banana chips, try using apple slices instead.
2) Trail Mix
Trail mix is a great way to get protein and carbs in one small package. It’s also a good source of iron and magnesium.
Why Trail Mix?
- It has a lot of antioxidants.
- It contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6.
- It contains zinc which is important for testosterone production.
- It contains manganese which is essential for bone health.
- It contains copper which is necessary for muscle growth.
- It contains selenium which is needed for thyroid function.
- It contains phosphorus which is used by the body to produce ATP, the main form of cellular energy.
How To Prepare Trail Mix
- Combine all dry ingredients together in a bowl.
- Add nuts, raisins, dried fruit, and coconut flakes.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tip: Try adding peanut butter to the trail mix for added flavor.
3) Protein Bars
Protein bars are a quick and easy way to get protein when you’re on the go. They’re also a great alternative to other sugary treats.
Why Protein Bars?
- They’re low calorie.
- They provide a steady stream of protein throughout the day.
- They’re packed with nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, and more.
- They’re gluten-free.
- They’re made from whole grains.
- They’re delicious.
How To Make Protein Bars
- Blend oats, almonds, pecans, walnuts, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, and honey in a blender.
- Pour mixture onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and press down firmly.
- Cut into squares and store in a plastic bag.
Tip: For best results, use organic oats.
4) Nuts & Seeds
Nuts and seeds are great sources of protein and fat. They’re also loaded with minerals and vitamins.
Why Nuts & Seeds?
- They’re rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
- They’re a great source of protein.
- They’re low calorie.
- They’re very filling.
- They’re inexpensive.
- They’re healthy.
How To Eat Nuts & Seeds
- Sprinkle on salads.
- Spread on sandwiches.
- Chop up and sprinkle on top of oatmeal.
- Toast nuts before eating.
5) Yogurt
Yogurt is a great snack that provides probiotics, protein and calcium.
Why Yogurt?
- It’s low calorie.
- It’s a great source of protein, calcium and vitamin D.
- It’s high in pro biotics which help maintain gut health.
- It’s lactose free.
How To Make Yogurt
- Put yogurt in a jar and cover with cheesecloth. Let sit overnight in refrigerator.
- The next morning, strain off liquid whey and discard.
- Use remaining yogurt for your favorite recipe or eat plain.
Tip: You can make homemade yogurt by following this simple guide.
6) Fruits
Fruits are great snack because it’s full of fiber and vitamins.
Why Fruits?
- These are natural source of potassium.
- Low in calories.
- Excellent source of Vitamin C.
- Rich in antioxidants.
- Naturally sweet.
- Affordable.
How To Choose Fruit
- Look for fresh fruits that are ripe but not too soft.
- Avoid overripe fruits.
- If possible, buy locally grown fruit.
7) Oats
Oats are a great source of fiber and protein. They’re also easy to digest and keep you full longer than other grains.
Why Oats For Basketball
- They’re low in calories, high in fiber.
- Contain B-vitamins which promote energy production.
- Have a slow release of energy so they keep you feeling fuller longer.
- Help reduce cholesterol levels.
- Improve digestion.
- They boost immunity.
How To Make Oats
- Cook them like rice.
- Add milk and cinnamon for breakfast.
- Mix with peanut butter for a tasty treat.
- Bake in muffin tins for a yummy dessert.
8) Cheese
Cheese is a great snack because of its high nutritional value. It contains protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin and niacin.
Why Cheese?
- It’s good for the digestive system.
- It’s nutritious.
- Lower in calories than most foods.
- It has a long shelf life.
- It’s portable.
- It’s economical.
How To Make Cheese
- Grate cheese directly from the block.
- Wrap in foil and freeze until needed.
- Store in airtight containers.
- Serve as a dip for crackers or veggies.
9) Milk
Milk is a great source of protein (which helps build muscle), calcium, phosphorous and vitamin D.
Why Milk?
- It’s cheap.
- It’s convenient.
- Easily accessible.
- It’s safe, healthy.
10) Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is another great option for snacking. It’s high in fat but has lots of protein and carbs.
Why Peanut Butter
- It’s inexpensive.
- Versatile.
- It’s filling.
- Tastes good.
- It’s easy to spread.
- Gluten free.
How To Spread Peanut Butter
- Spread on bread or crackers.
- Dip apples or bananas in peanut butter.
- Spread on toast.
- Mix with jelly for a sandwich spread.
11) Popcorn
Popcorn is a classic snack for movie nights. I like to sprinkle some salt over mine before eating. This adds flavor and makes me feel less hungry.
12) Whole Grain Bagels
Whole-grain bagels are packed with nutrients and fiber. They’re also low in calories and gluten-free.
13) Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is loaded with protein and calcium which helps build strong bones. It’s also delicious on its own or mixed into oatmeal.
These are recommended healthy snacks for basketball players that you can eat without any hesitation. All of these snacks are properly monitored tested and analyzed for the best results. So start consuming your favourite healthy snacks for basketball and boost your performance in the ground.
What food is 100% Protein
Protein is one of the building blocks of our bodies. Protein provides us with strength and endurance.
It can be found in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, soybeans, peas, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
The best sources of protein include:
1) Lean Meats
Lean meats such as chicken breast, turkey breast, beef tenderloin, pork loin, lamb chops, and lean ground beef are all excellent sources of protein.
2) Fish
Fish is an excellent source of protein. Salmon, tuna, cod, halibut, sardines, mackerel, and herring are just a few examples of fish that provide plenty of protein.
3) Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein. Egg whites contain about 6 grams of protein per egg while the yolks contain 12 grams of protein.
4) Dairy Products
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, and ice cream are rich in protein.
5) Beans
Beans are a great source of plant based proteins. Black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, navy beans, lima beans, garbanzo beans, and white beans are all excellent sources of plant based proteins.
6) Nuts & Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great sources of healthy fats and protein. Almonds, peanuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, cashews, pecans, pistachios, and Brazil nuts are all great options.
Are apples good before games?
Apples are a great snack because they’re full of vitamins and minerals. Apples have been shown to help improve athletic performance by improving energy levels and helping muscles recover faster.
Here are some other benefits of eating apples:
- Apples are loaded with antioxidants that protect against heart disease.
- Apples are a natural source of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Apples are a great source of vitamin C which supports immune function.
- Apples contain quercetin which may help reduce inflammation.
- Apples have anti-cancer properties.
- Apples help prevent constipation.
- Apples increase metabolism.
- Apples boost brain power.
- Apple aid digestion.
- Apples keep teeth strong.
- Apples give you a feeling of satiety.
- Apples make you look younger.
- Apples promote weight loss.
- Apples lower cholesterol.
- Apples reduce stress.
- Apples support bone health.
- Apples strengthen hair and nails.
- Apples improve vision.
Is popcorn a healthy snack for athletes
Popcorn is high in carbs but it has very little fat or sodium. Popcorn is a great snack for athletes because it gives them a quick burst of energy without having to eat a lot at once.
Here are some things to know about popcorn:
- Popcorn is a great source of fiber.
- Popcorn contains no saturated fat.
- Popcorn is low in calories.
- Popcorn is easy to prepare.
- Popcorn doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
- Popcorn comes in many different flavors.
- Popcorn isn’t fattening.
- Popcorn makes a great post game treat.
- Popcorn tastes great on its own or mixed into salads.
Is fruit a healthy snack?
Fruit is a great snack option for athletes. Fruit provides carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Athletes should choose fruits that are low in sugar and high in fiber. Fruits like oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, bananas, and blueberries are all great choices.
What foods can I eat after practice?
Athletes can eat anything they want after practice. However, athletes should avoid eating too much food right away. It’s best to wait until your stomach is empty before eating something else.
Can I drink water during exercise?
Yes! Water is an important part of any athlete’s diet. Drinking plenty of water will help replace lost fluids and maintain proper hydration.
Do I need to eat breakfast every day?
It depends on the type of sport you play. Some sports require more physical activity than others. If you’re playing a team sport, then yes, you should eat breakfast each morning. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It gives you the fuel you need to perform well throughout the rest of the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, basketball players face unique challenges when it comes to staying in shape during their season. From traveling to playing multiple games per week, these athletes often end up having to sacrifice their fitness routine to focus on their performance. However, there are plenty of healthy snacks that can help keep them fueled throughout the day without compromising their energy levels.
For starters, sports drinks like Gatorade are perfect for replenishing electrolytes lost from sweating. They also contain carbohydrates that provide quick bursts of energy, which means that they won’t leave you too tired to perform at your peak level. For longer workouts, protein bars are another great option. These foods contain high amounts of protein, which helps build muscle mass and keeps you going strong through the night.
Finally, fruit is a great choice for postgame snacking because it contains natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for recovery. So whether you’re looking to refuel after a grueling workout or you want to fuel your team, you can count on fruits to deliver the nutrition that you need without leaving you feeling sluggish.
