Xen-Do juniors supported by their parents are becoming increasingly interested in what they eat as a way of increasing their progress and performing well in the Grading.

Nayan and Mum Priya Dales choose bananas, peppers, apples, chicken and eggs as their 5 super foods.

Xen-Do’s affiliate Louise O’ Driscoll, a specialist in diet and herself a Xen-Do kickboxing and martial arts student says, “fantastic choices by Nayan. These foods provide a good range of all the things our bodies need, protein, carbohydrate, good fat and lots of nutrients!

Bananas are an excellent snack when you are feeling low on energy, especially before a training session at Xen-Do! They provide a strong steady flow of energy and are rich in potassium, which helps the flow of oxygen to the brain. They also provide iron and just in case you are feeling a bit low, the tryptophan in them has been shown to boost mood. Apples are high in vitamins C and K and keep your immune system in shape. Peppers also contain vitamins A, C and K, helping your immune system and keeping skin healthy.

Eggs are a true super food. They are packed with protein and are one of the only foods to contain naturally occurring vitamin D, something most of us are low on and need for good health. They also carry all nine of the essential amino acids our bodies need and good fat – contained in the yolk, so don’t avoid it! The best breakfast food you could choose.

Chicken is a rich source of protein, exactly what you need to build strength for all those push ups the Senseis make you do! The potassium in it is good for your brain (so you can concentrate better on your combinations!) and the vitamin B6 and B3 it also contains help your metabolism work more efficiently so your body can process food better.

How about trying a dinner of chicken fajitas, using chicken and peppers – make up the wraps with these and some tomato salsa, guacamole and Greek yoghurt for a fun and nutritious meal. Or use eggs and peppers to make a frittata for lunch?”

Xen-Do’s Dai Master Raf commented

“I am very impressed by the attitude of our students towards diet, not only as part of a healthy lifestyle but also to help their performance in the dojo. This commitment will also help their school work and positive outlook in general. Well done!”

This article is based on opinion:
– the author is not a qualified doctor or anyone who can dispense medical advice.
– any opinions stated are just that and people should consult a doctor before making any dietary changes or changes of any nature prompted by the articles published by or on behalf of Xen-Do.
– under 16’s please obtain parental permission before posting anything online.
– any opinions stated are that of the author and do not represent the opinions of Xen-Do.