Do you love the idea of fueling your body just like the best athletes do it? Well...you can! What if I told you there’s a tiny grain with ancient African roots that’s taking the running world by storm?
Meet teff—the superfood top athletes swear by. You might be familiar with quinoa, but teff is the new grain shaking up the nutrition scene. As more world-class runners add teff into their diets, statistics reveal significant improvements in energy levels and performance.
Let me fill you in on what's been hiding in plain sight.
What Is Teff?
Teff, native to Ethiopia and Eritrea, is the smallest grain in the world and is full of nutrients. Packed with iron, protein, and calcium, it’s gluten-free and perfect for celiacs.
Image of teff grains and Flour from Canva
Despite its size, teff has been the foundation of Ethiopian diets for generations, helping to fuel athletes to new heights. A single cup of teff offers 50% more iron than quinoa and twice the calcium. Plus, its high fiber content helps digestion and keeps you full longer. It is perfect for fueling extended workout sessions.
The Nutritional Breakdown: Why Runners Swear By It
Elite athletes like Great Britain’s Mo Farah have shared their experiences of improved endurance and quicker recovery rates, thanks in part to including teff into their diets. While these achievements are not just about diet, nutrition plays a crucial role in unlocking their potential.
Image of Mo Farah taken from Stu Forster/Getty Images
And it's not just the elites—weekend warriors share stories of personal bests, reduced injury rates, and newfound energy. Data from various sports nutrition conferences shows broad agreement: teff is changing the game for many, providing sustainable fuel and essential nutrients.
Teff is loaded with resistant starch, providing prebiotic benefits that support gut health. This tiny grain is rich in vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin C, making it a superior choice for running enthusiasts.
Low on the glycemic index, teff offers long-lasting energy without blood sugar spikes—a vital factor for maintaining stamina during long runs.
According to a study in the Journal of Nutritional Science, athletes who incorporated teff into their meals reported a noticeable boost in endurance and recovery times. With performance gains backed by data, teff is a no-brainer for those hitting the pavement regularly.
Teff's Role in Modern Nutrition Trends
Beyond fitness, teff is at the forefront of emerging nutrition trends, resonating with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Nutritionist reports affirm its status as a nutrient booster and valuable dietary addition.
Adding teff aligns with a modern approach to balanced, mindful eating for health and wellness enthusiasts.
Keen to hop on the teff train? Recipe Ideas to Get You Started
Teff can be found in many health food stores and online retailers in grain or flour form.
You can use it as a base in porridges, salads, and even baked goods. Its slightly nutty flavor complements a wide array of dishes, so consider replacing your rice or quinoa with teff in your next meal.
Image of Injera taken from Canva
Related reading: 10 Irresistible Teff Recipes Everyone’s Raving About—Try Them Before They Go Viral!
Or you can try a breakfast teff porridge by simmering the grains with milk and topping it with berries and nuts.
Create a savory teff pilaf by cooking it with vegetable broth, sautéed onions, and your choice of veggies—for a filling dinner alternative.
Or put a twist on your baking by using teff flour in muffins or pancakes for a nutritional boost.
Now you know the secret fuel behind some of the world’s fastest runners—Teff. Packed with nutrients, energy, and endurance-boosting power, it’s time to add this ancient grain to your diet. Don’t get left behind—start feeling like a champion today!
References
https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/a33645063/what-is-teff/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4205294/