TS Galaxy midfielder Xola Mlambo says the decision to cut out red meat is paying dividends in his bid to remain at his level best in terms of fitness and endurance.
Mlambo quit red meat a few months ago, a decision he took with high hopes of improving his endurance.
The 31-year-old is deservedly reaping the rewards of the bold decision he took, and his industrious work ethic at TS Galaxy.
“It was just a decisional choice. There is a lot in red meat that is not good for our human bodies,” Mlambo, who is a former Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu star, told FARPost.
“So, I did my own research and checked if there is something I can replace it with, and I opted to go with the pescatarian diet, and it’s been working great for me.”
In general, red meats [beef, mutton, pork, venison] have more cholesterol and saturated fat than chicken, fish, and vegetable proteins such as beans.
According to Mlambo’s research, avoiding red meat supports good overall health and weight management. Increased energy levels are also something he benefits from as he replaces it with plant protein.
WHY XOLA MLAMBO QUIT RED MEAT
“Ever since I started it, I have been shedding some fat and keeping my body shape well, and I think the digestive system is responding well to that.
“I have protein shakes that take because we know what meat contains, but more benefit is not having what the body doesn’t want from red meat.
“I’m off that. It’s the proper diet. We have the shakes and fish to supplement the protein need.”
The former Orlando Pirates midfield workhorse revealed that taking part in regular five aside training sessions has helped him reach his peak in terms of fitness.
“The extra work pays dividends; whenever we are not training, I try and make sure that I go to the gym, and I think even playing five aside keeps me more active.
“We have a team that we play with, so that’s the one that helps me keep my fitness level at its best.”
Mlambo added: “Sometimes only training with the team is not enough. I need to go the extra mile and do everything that needs to be done.
“If you have to go to the gym, then go to the gym. If I have to play with five aside guys on Mondays, then I do so.”
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