When you think of the food that fuels a winning football team, you might think of huge plates of steak and endless hard-boiled eggs.
But for the Philadelphia Eagles, performance nutrition goes far beyond the usual suspects. The team’s chefs and dietitians carefully plan each meal to maximize energy, stamina and recovery.
“Nutrition is the key to energy, endurance and longevity on the field,” said team principal James Sirles MyFitnessPal (that’s the pride nutrition tracking app from the Philadelphia Eagles). “Many factors go into tailoring the nutritional needs of an elite athlete… Players understand the role nutrition plays in keeping them strong.”
And some of Eagle’s MVP foods are definitely not what you might think. Here are five of the unexpected foods and drinks that give the Eagles an edge both on and off the field:
1. Quinoa for breakfast
On the side, oatmeal. Quinoa is the main ingredient in the Eagles’ morning meals.
“Quinoa is a breakfast staple for the Eagles because of its versatility and nutrient density,” says Sirles. Some players opt for a protein-packed breakfast bowl with scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables and avocado, while others enjoy it as a warm, nutty porridge with almond milk, fresh berries and honey.
You can also use quinoa to make healthier versions of breakfast classics, such as pancakes, muffinsAnd hash.
“Quinoa is a key player because it provides complete protein and slow-digesting carbohydrates to fuel your morning workouts or recovery sessions,” Sirles explains.
2. Beetroot juice for stamina
When they are dehydrated or need a pick-me-up, players don’t always opt for sports drinks or protein shakes. They reach for beetroot juice.
That’s right: one of the team’s favorite drinks is beetroot juice.
“It is a favorite among players because it is rich in nitrates, which improve blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscles, increasing endurance and endurance,” says Sirles (1, 2).
That’s a big advantage for players who need to perform at their best during long, intense games.
3. Tart cherry juice for recovery
There is another important but unusual juice in the rotation for the players. Sweet cherry juice.
“This anti-inflammatory powerhouse is a secret weapon for reducing and improving muscle soreness sleep qualitywhich is crucial for recovery during a busy season,” says Sirles (3, 4).
Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory properties help players recover faster from grueling practices and matches, keeping them ready for whatever comes next in the season (5).
4. Kimchi and sauerkraut for gut health
Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut might not be the first things you associate with football, but these traditional cabbage dishes help give Eagle’s players an edge.
“Fermented foods are rich in probiotics support intestinal health and immune function. A healthy gut is essential for absorbing nutrients and keeping players game-ready,” says Sirles (6).
“The human gut microbiota does more than just digest food – it plays a critical role in athletic performance,” says Melissa Jaeger, dietitian and chief nutrition officer at MyFitnessPal.
“Our gut supports nutrient absorption and metabolism and plays a role in regulating inflammation, all of which are essential in helping athletes like the Eagles perform at their best,” she explains (7).
5. Sweet potatoes for constant energy
“These are complex carbohydrates that you can use for sustainable energy. They are included in pre-game meals to help players avoid energy crashes and maintain focus throughout the game,” said Sirles.
They are also packed with fiber, vitamins and antioxidants to support overall health. Whether mashed, roasted, or baked as a side dish, sweet potatoes help players maintain focus and stamina through all four quarters and into overtime.
The Eagles’ nutritional products
In addition to these unexpected choices, the Eagles’ cafeteria is always stocked with the basics of good nutrition, including:
- Lean protein: Grilled chicken and salmon are must-haves for muscle repair and recovery.
- Greek yogurt: Rich in protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt is an ideal snack, often combined with granola, nuts or seeds for extra nutrients and crunch.
- Trail mix and protein bars: These convenient, portable snacks keep players energized between meals.
- Fruit with nut butter: Bananas, apples and oranges combined with almond or peanut butter provide a quick, nutrient-rich energy boost.
- Drinking stations: Water, electrolyte drinks and smoothies are always within reach to help players stay hydrated and replenish lost nutrients.
While the rest of us may not be training for the big game, there’s plenty to learn from the Eagles’ approach to nutrition.
By adding all these powerful foods to your own diet (and… tracking your meals to help optimize nutrition!) can help improve energy, recovery and overall health, just like the pros.
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