As one of the most famous and successful athletes in the world, Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his dedication to fitness and his strict diet. The Portuguese soccer star has often spoken publicly about the importance of nutrition in maintaining his peak performance on the field.
While Ronaldo’s diet is largely centered on lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, there are a number of foods that he avoids entirely. Read on for a breakdown of the foods that Ronaldo steers clear of in order to maintain optimal health and fitness.
Processed Foods
Like many health-conscious athletes, Ronaldo avoids processed foods as much as possible. These include packaged snacks, fast food, and convenience items like frozen dinners. Not only are these foods generally high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, but they offer little in the way of actual nutrition.
Sugary Foods and Beverages
Another type of food that Ronaldo avoids is anything with added sugar. This includes candy, soda, and pastries. These foods provide a quick hit of energy, but are quickly digested and can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Over time, consuming too much sugar can lead to a host of health problems, including diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
Alcohol
While Ronaldo has been known to enjoy a glass of red wine on occasion, he generally avoids alcohol altogether. Not only does alcohol dehydrate the body, but it also impairs judgment and can lead to overeating.
Processed Meats
In addition to avoiding processed foods, Ronaldo also steers clear of processed meats like hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats. These products are often high in sodium and preservatives and contain little in the way of actual meat.
Saturated Fats
While not entirely avoiding fat altogether, Ronaldo is careful to choose healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and avocados. He generally avoids saturated fats, which are found in foods like butter, red meat, and coconut oil. These types of fat have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cardiovascular disease.
In general, Ronaldo’s diet is focused on whole, nutrient-dense foods that offer the body the energy and nutrients it needs to perform at its best. By avoiding processed foods, sugar, alcohol, processed meats, and saturated fats, he is able to maintain optimal health and fitness, both on and off the field.
