Diets rich in nitrates from vegetables improve muscle function, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. In 3,759 participants in the Australian Diabetes, Obesity, and Lifestyle Study (AusDiab), those with the highest nitrate consumption, mainly from vegetable sources, performed with more strength and speed in the physical tests when compared to those who ate fewer nitrates. These results support regular vegetable consumption as an effective lifestyle intervention to promote strength and athletic activity.
References
Sim M, Blekkenhorst LC, Bondonno NP, et al. Dietary nitrate intake is positively associated with muscle function in men and women independent of physical activity levels. J Nutr. Published online March 24, 2021. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxaa415