World-class athletes consistently adhere to meticulous diets in order to excel in their respective sports. For instance, LeBron James follows a diet regimen that enables him to maintain peak performance even at the age of 38, while Chris Paul of the Phoenix Suns adheres to a vegan diet to prolong his athletic career. Soccer icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi also adopt distinctive dietary practices.
However, a particular element of their nutrition is gaining significant recognition. Throughout their soccer journeys, Ronaldo and Messi have prioritized the care and maintenance of their bodies, which has contributed to their ability to perform at the highest level. Incorporating seaweed into their diets has emerged as a crucial factor for them.
As per The Sun, Seaweed consumption has become increasingly popular among these athletes, as it provides essential nutrients that aid in optimal performance. The renowned ingredient contains spirulina, a protein source comprising up to 70% of its composition. Moreover, seaweed is rich in vitamins such as A, B1, B2, C, D, E, and K, which are instrumental in sustaining athletes’ energy levels during matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Karim Benzema keep in top shape thanks to the same diethttps://t.co/1UkHXMofV1
— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) May 21, 2023
Professor James E. Griffin reports that seaweed consumption in the United States has witnessed a seven percent surge due to the influence of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Additionally, another vital component found in seaweed, called chlorella provides anti-aging benefits, aids in detoxification, and accelerates metabolism.
Secret behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s diet
Ronaldo’s dedication to his diet is unquestionable. Since his days at Real Madrid, he has been working closely with a personal dietician, following a regimen of six small meals per day, spaced out every three to four hours.
When it comes to food preferences, Ronaldo has a particular fondness for fish, including swordfish, sea bass, and sea bream. His favorite dish is bacalhau a braz, a delectable combination of cod, onions, thinly sliced potatoes, and scrambled eggs. He also prioritizes consuming plenty of fruits and lean proteins. When dining out, Ronaldo opts for fresh options, often ordering steak and a salad, avoiding anything frozen.
For breakfast, Ronaldo enjoys a variety of items such as cheese, ham, low-fat yogurt, and a generous portion of fruit, complemented by a serving of avocado toast.
Do NOT put Coca Cola in front of Cristiano Ronaldo 😠
This is absolutely brilliant 🤣 pic.twitter.com/bw9FYlTOI4
— GOAL (@goal) June 15, 2021
In 2021, Ronaldo attracted attention for his dismissive remarks about the soft drink Coca-Cola during Euro 2020. He encouraged people to choose water instead, emphasizing its importance.
Hydration is another crucial aspect, and Ronaldo firmly asserts the importance of drinking water. However, one sacrifice he makes to keep his body in peak condition is abstaining from alcohol and carbonated drinks.
Is Lionel Messi’s diet as strict as Cristiano Ronaldo?
In contrast to Ronaldo, Messi had a history of indulging in junk foods during the early stages of his career, which sometimes led to him feeling ill and even vomiting on the field during games.
Messi experienced sickness the previous year during a World Cup qualifier against Bolivia, played at the high altitude of La Paz. Alejandro Sabella, his former international coach, attributed the problem to nerves. In 2015, an Italian doctor named Giuliano Poser claimed to have treated and cured Messi of this issue. However, Messi himself believes that cutting out unhealthy drinks and snacks was the true solution.
In an interview, Messi openly acknowledged, “I don’t know what I ate, but I ate badly for many years.” He admitted to consuming chocolate, alfajores (South American filled cookies), and fizzy drinks during his younger years. Nowadays, his diet primarily consists of nutritious choices such as fish, meat, vegetables, salads, and well-organized meals. Occasionally, he enjoys a bit of wine without any issues.
By making a simple change in his diet, Lionel Messi, the FC Barcelona star, successfully put an end to his problem of falling ill during matches—a concern that had troubled him for years.
In #WorldCup2014 tune-up, #LionelMessi plays just 32 minutes, still throws up on field. #Lebroning in futbol too? pic.twitter.com/MPxfeiIkq8
— Bloggers To Be Named (@Bloggers2BNamed) June 7, 2014
Messi prioritizes hydration and begins his day by consuming plenty of water. His diet predominantly includes fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, salads, soups, brown rice, and tuna. He consciously avoids sugar, fried foods, and processed carbohydrates. Opting for unprocessed whole foods forms the foundation of his solid nutritional intake.
One of Messi’s favorite recipes is roasted chicken with root vegetables. This dish provides a rich blend of nutrients, proteins, and vitamins. The chicken serves as an excellent source of lean proteins, offering essential amino acids that aid in muscle development and sculpting. The potatoes contribute complex carbohydrates, while the vegetables provide valuable vitamins.