Minnesota Vikings alum Kirk Cousins is entering his 13th NFL season with a new team and a new diet. The Atlanta Falcons quarterback has cut out gluten and grains to avoid inflammation and reduce the risk of injury.
Former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins has embarked on a rigorous dietary regimen as he enters the twilight of his NFL career. Now with the Atlanta Falcons, the 36-year-old signal-caller has implemented a gluten-free, grain-free diet, with a peculiar twist: he peels the buns off his burgers.
Cousins' dietary overhaul stems from comprehensive blood tests that revealed he needed to eliminate not only gluten but also all grains. This decision was made to optimize his body's performance and minimize the risk of injury.
Kirk Cousins' Diet: Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, and Burger Bun-Less
Cousins joins a growing number of NFL players who have adopted gluten-free diets to combat inflammation and improve overall health. Inflammation, when left unchecked, can render muscles less flexible, increasing the risk of tendon and ligament injuries.
Experts believe that reducing inflammation can help athletes avoid joint pain, stiffness, and other issues that can hinder performance. By eliminating gluten from his diet, Cousins aims to minimize inflammation and protect his body.
Kirk Cousins' Diet: Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, and Burger Bun-Less
Cousins' diet goes beyond gluten avoidance, as he has also eliminated all grains, including rice and corn. His decision is based on his specific blood chemistry, which indicated a need to avoid these specific food groups.
Despite his rigid dietary regimen, Cousins has found a creative way to indulge in one of his favorite foods: the burger. While he still holds the bun, he peels it off and eats only the patty and toppings, avoiding the gluten and grain content.
Kirk Cousins' Diet: Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, and Burger Bun-Less
Cousins' dietary transformation was prompted by a season-ending Achilles injury he suffered last year while playing for the Vikings. The injury cut short one of his best seasons and prompted him to re-evaluate his approach to health and fitness.
Despite signing a lucrative contract with the Falcons, Cousins faces potential competition at the quarterback position. The team has invested a first-round draft pick in Michael Penix Jr., putting the veteran signal-caller under pressure to perform.
Cousins' decision to prioritize his diet reflects the importance he places on his NFL career. By cutting out burger buns and eliminating gluten and grains, he hopes to maximize his chances of staying healthy and avoiding another devastating injury.
As Cousins enters his late 30s, he recognizes the need to make sacrifices to maintain his relevance in the NFL. His strict diet is just one aspect of his comprehensive approach to health and performance, as he strives to extend his career and leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
