Honestly, there are way more than 5 foods that athletes should include in their diets, but here are some great places to start. These foods are delicious, nutrient-packed and can easily become part of an everyday diet.

Whole Grain Bread
Whole grain breads have more fiber, vitamins and protein than the “white stuff.” If you have white bread fans at home, slowly make the transition here and there with 100% whole breads, bagels and English muffins. Some whole wheat breads can be dry and grainy (a turn-off to many). Arnold and Milton’s are two of my favorites –- even the most die-hard white bread fans will be pleasantly surprised.

Peanut Butter
Peanut butter has it all – healthy fat and carbs for energy and protein for strong muscles. Since a PB&J doesn’t require refrigeration, it makes an effortless meal that’s ready when you are. Spread some all-natural peanut butter on crackers, celery sticks, sliced apple or even melt a few spoonfuls into a stir-fry.

Berries & Bananas
Ok, so I’m cheating a little here – but both these types of fruit offer special qualities to an athlete’s diet. Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are chocked full of fiber and cell-protecting antioxidants. Add them to oatmeal, cereal, smoothies and salads. Bananas have potassium and vitamin B6 for healthy muscles and protein metabolism; they make a rich and creamy smoothie or an easy peel-and-eat snack.

Dark Leafy Greens
Green veggies like spinach, Swiss chard, kale, romaine lettuce, bok choy (pictured above) and collard greens are teaming with vitamins A, E, K, riboflavin and folate. They’re also full of minerals like calcium, iron and magnesium. Add spinach and dark colored lettuce mixes to salads and sandwiches and cook swiss chard or bok choy into pasta and rice dishes.

Lean Protein
Last but certainly not least – lean sources should make up the majority of an athlete’s protein intake. Healthy sources include chicken, turkey, dairy, beans, soy and eggs. Spread out protein intake throughout the day, with an extra dose after workouts, to keep muscles going strong.