Whole grain carbs helped Michael Jordan play like a champion. Lean, quick, and energetic, Jordan needed food that would power him for excellence.
In 1996, Jordan would eat 5-6 meals a day. He would eat 70% carbs, 20% fats, and 10% proteins.
Healthy Carbs
Some healthy sources of carbs Jordan enjoyed:
1. Oatmeal
2. Whole Grain Pasta
3. Baked Potato
Key Point
Natural and mostly unprocessed carbs can be very healthy.
Healthy Proteins
Though some of the best athletes today, such as Messi, adopt a mostly vegetarian diet during season, Jordan ate lean meats.
Some of Jordan’s protein sources:
1. Eggs
2. Chicken Breast
3. Hamburgers
4. Protein Powder
Key Point
Lean meat can be a healthy source of protein.
Biggest Meal of the Day
Breakfast was Jordan’s biggest meal.
His 4-5 other meals were light, and helped him stay energetic without feeling too full.
Key Point
Make sure to eat enough healthy food to stay energetic.
Other Food
Jordan enjoyed eating fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries. In particular, he added fresh fruit to his oatmeal for breakfast and his protein shakes for snacks.
He also frequently ate salads as part of his lunch.
Key Point
Natural and minimally processed whole foods helped fuel Jordan.
Potentially Unhealthy Foods Jordan Ate
As an elite athlete who trained long and hard each day, Jordan could afford to consume certain unhealthy foods with added sugar.
1. Gatorade’s high sugar levels could lead to weight gain and even Type 2 Diabetes.
2.Orange Juice with added sugar is unhealthy, while making orange juice by peeling oranges and sticking them in a blender is healthy.
Key Point
Food and drink without added sugar is best for avoiding weight gain.
