According to nutritionist Alberto Mastromatteo, algae is a dish that contributes to the success of football stars like Karim Benzema or Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I am a passionate believer in the extraordinary nutritional power of microalgae. It is an unmatched source of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. It also provides other healthy fats, vitamins, carotenoids and other nutrients. Antioxidants. For this reason, I often put Spirulina and Chlorella in the menus,” said Mastromatteo, who is in charge of developing striker Karim Benzema’s diet .
Benzema celebrates after scoring against Chelsea in last season’s Champions League. Photo: AFP
According to Mundo Deportivo , Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi also regularly use algae in their daily meals. This contributes to their full physical strength even when they are over 34 years old.
Spirulina is known as “green gold”. According to the World Health Organization, this superfood has a protein content of 70%, is rich in vitamins (A, B1, B2, C, D, E and K), minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium.
Chlorella is a freshwater algae with a protein content of 60%. It helps slow down the aging process, purify the blood, fight anemia and avoid inflammation. “They have great nutritional value because with just a small amount, you get a lot of plant protein. The body absorbs them better than animal protein,” Mastromatteo affirms.
Besides diet, soccer stars also adhere to a strict exercise regimen. This helps them play an average of 40 matches per season at a high level. Last season, Benzema played 46 matches and scored 44 goals. By winning both La Liga and the Champions League , the French striker became the number one candidate to win the 2022 Golden Ball .
