Pistachio smoothie, the perfect ally for a high intensity workout

The hottest workout right now? High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)or the one focused on the intensity factor, considered of primary importance in improving athletic performance and above all in the search for strength.

Fundamental, in the practice of this discipline (but also in all the others) the right supply of nutrients that preserve adequate levels of energy.
At this juncture, i pistachios they can be real allies for those who play sports, especially useful in the recovery phase after the workout.

As he claims Sarah CordaraSpecialist in Food Science and Nutritionist, in a note released by American Pistachio Growersa non-profit association that brings together American pistachio growers «For every athlete, nutrition is a truly important part and to combine training efforts with the need for energy and hunger pangs, pistachios are an excellent snack, enjoy after training».

Pistachios, a source of benefits

Valuable especially when training, pistachios are able to stretch and relax muscles subjected to efforts, replenish lost mineral salts and stimulate protein synthesis, as well as muscle recovery.
The reason for this “special power” lies in the magnesium contained within them – which relaxes and helps to dispose of excess lactic acid accumulated – at B vitamins – which remove tiredness – al potassium – essential for muscle contraction, disposed of with sweat during intense exercise – garlic essential amino acids – useful for muscle recovery after the athlete’s effort and for antioxidants – which counteract any damage and muscle pain due to inflammation and oxidative stress.

And there’s more: pistachios can have beneficial effects also on the epidermis, thanks to their anti-inflammatory action. Furthermore, they can be the perfect companions to prepare and accompany the skin during the summer season, as they protect against the sun’s UV rays.
Some studies have, in fact, highlighted the ability of pistachios to preserve the thickness of the skin exposed to UVA radiation (the radiations that penetrate deeper into the skin, responsible for skin ageing).

Two shakes for post workout recovery (and more)

Perfect both to nibble on and as a key ingredient for deliciously refreshing smoothies to drink, pistachios are the ideal food after a workout. Any ideas to enjoy them at their best? Here are two smoothies made by Fuel Bar by Barry’s Bootcamp from Milan: Pistachio Flex 1, fresh and light, and Skinny Pnourishing and creamy.

Ingredients:
-300ml of coconut water
-5 pieces of pineapple sativus from the freezer
-25g of homemade American pistachio butter
-5g of chia seeds
-25g of vanilla whey protein

The recipe of Pistachio Flex

Ingredients:
-300 ml of almond milk
-15-20g of wild spinach
-25g of homemade American pistachio butter
-1/2 banana
-1/4 avocado
-25g of vanilla whey protein