Basketball is one of the most physically demanding sports an individual can play. Therefore, a basketball players' diet can drastically affect their performance on the court. Hoop Group, a basketball academy dedicated to helping individuals improve their game and maximize their experience in the sport, encourages players to educate themselves and pay attention to what goes into your body to get the best out of your body. Below we highlight a couple of the best foods for basketballs player to eat.

Protein-Laden Products

Proteins are vital nutrients. The main function of protein is to act as the building block of the body. Nutritional byproducts execute an important role in building and repairing muscle. Proteins are paramount for athletes to avoid injury and build a lean muscular body frame providing them with the power and range of movement necessary to be a successful basketball player. They provide the energy your body needs to perform numerous systemic functions and are critical to the fat-burning process.

Fortunately, protein can be found in many healthy foods. Among the most notable protein sources recommended by nutritionists and healthcare professionals include fish, poultry, eggs, lean beef, nuts, and Greek yogurt. Many dietary experts also suggest that athletes such as basketball players ingest a protein shake as a snack or following a lengthy or strenuous workout.

Complex Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are scientifically classified as macronutrients. Macronutrients are crucial to a healthy diet because they help the body create energy through the intake of calories. That said, not all "carbs," as we know them as are created equal.

Athletes like basketball players benefit most from a subcategory called complex carbohydrates. Scientists label these nutrients complex because it takes the body a longer period of time to digest. Complex carbohydrates differ from the simple categorization, which the body absorbs and metabolizes much quicker. The complex variety is said to hold a greater nutritional and health because they remain in the body longer.

Complex carbohydrates are found in foods including produce products like fruits and vegetables, legumes most commonly eaten as beans, and grain products such as cereal and pasta. Simple carbohydrates like candy and excessively sugary drinks should be avoided. These products only provide quick bursts of energy but not the sustained strength that basketball players need.

It is important to take note of the time of day complex carbohydrates are consumed. Because the body gradually synthesizes these products, the best time to ingest them is prior to a game or significant workout. Eating these substances during idle periods could contribute to unnecessary or unwarranted weight gain.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats, known scientifically as mono-unsaturated fats, are critical to helping high-performing athletes such as basketball players maintain immunity, build cellular strength and achieve proper hormonal balances. These nutrients can be found in products like fish and olive oil. Products with saturated fat such as beef, fried and processed foods should be consumed sparingly or avoided altogether.