beet juice

Here's What Courtney Lee is Eating On Game Day

HEY KNICKS FANS!! While I don't typically have the opportunity to sit down with basketball players to discuss their diets - especially during basketball season - Courtney Lee made an exception and let me video conference him from the road. So today, rather than giving you the typical Tuesday recipe (I'll make up for it!!) let's change things up and take a look at what this 6' 5" shooting guard for the New York Knicks is eating to keep himself fueled all season. 

LS: Tell me a little bit about what you focus on when it comes to nutrition and sports performance.

CL: The night before a game I always try to eat something with carbs to give me energy. For instance, I’ll make sure I eat something like pasta. On game day I try to make sure I have chicken, or some type of protein. I definitely focus mostly on staying hydrated. It really helps enhance my performance.

LS: What are you eating in a day leading up to a game?

CL: I always have a big brunch before a game. I eat an egg white omelet with ham and cheese, plus a side of waffles and breakfast potatoes. I’ll also have a stir fry with white rice, shrimp, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce. I eat this until I’m full, then I’ll take a nap. An hour before the game I’ll eat half of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

LS: What does a meal look like after a game?

CL: The first 15 minutes after a game is the best time to replenish your body, especially with protein. I’ll usually eat something like chicken, pasta, and rice. Our trainers also make sure we have a protein shake right after the game too.

LS: What are you drinking on game day?

CL: Before the game I have a shot of beet juice, 2 bottles of water, and an espresso. At halftime I have another shot of beet juice and some Powerade. If I’m on the bench, I’ll only drink water.

LS: You’re stranded on an island. What 3 foods are you bringing?

  • Chicken alfredo

  • Filet mignon  

  • Soho house burger and fries

LS: Are there any foods you wouldn’t touch?

CL: Broccoli - I’m allergic.


 

 

Tovita Inspired Cocktail Recipes Created by Absolut Elyx

Here's the truth: We all enjoy a cocktail (or two), especially around the holidays. So let's cut to the chase and discuss how to do it without sugary sodas and syrups. We had some fun with our friends at Absolut Elyx by challenging them to incorporate a list of our favorite superfoods in their cocktails.  We have to say, we are very impressed with what they came up with! After having our friends taste test and vote, the Citrea cocktail was the winner. You will have to try and tell us which is your favorite!

We are not by any means implying that the following cocktails are healthy, or that they have any magical anti-hangover properties. We are just having some fun and taking taking alcohol off of the "things nutritionist don't talk about" list. These are also great cocktail ideas for any holiday parties you may be hosting this season!

elyx tovita

Virdiris

Matcha powder is made from the green tea leaf. By creating a powder, you are able to consume 100% of the antioxidants and benefits from the leaf, rather than just what is steeped outside of the teabag. 

  • 2 oz Elyx
  • 1 oz PANATEA Matcha-infused Plymouth
  • .5 oz Cocoa nib-infused Lillet Blanc
  • Garnish: Lemon oil
  • Served up in a cocktail coupe

Citrea

We are BEEyond in love with Manuka honey.  It is produced by bees in New Zealand and has anti-bacterial, antibiotic, and anti-inflammation properties. Manuka honey has higher levels of a compound called methylglyoxal than other types of honey. This compound is responsible for the antibiotic effect of Manuka honey that makes it a natural healer.  Did you know that bee pollen is considered one of nature's most nourishing foods? It is 40% protein and contains almost all of the nutrients required by humans. Half of the protein is in the form of free amino acids meaning it can be used directly by the body. 

  • 2 oz Elyx
  • 1 oz Pineapple juice
  • .75 oz Tangerine juice
  • .75 oz Lemon juice
  • .5 oz Chamomile/Manuka honey syrup
  • 2 dashes Lavender Bitters
  • Garnish: Bee pollen, Lavender frond
  • Served Tall over crushed ice (or as a slushy)

Dulcedo

Beet juice contains natural nitrates which increase nitric oxide in blood vessels. This opens up blood vessels to allow more oxygen flow and can help lower blood pressure. Beet juice can actually help you exercise longer due it the increased oxygen flow (not when paired with alcohol!) 

  • 1.5 oz Elyx
  • .5 oz Amontillado Sherry
  • 1.25 oz Beet juice
  • .75 oz Pink Grapefruit juice
  • .75 oz Lemon juice
  • .5 oz Manuka honey-syrup
  • Garnish: Freshly-grated cinnamon, Rosemary Stick