Just in Time for World Pizza Day: Bodybuilder Kaique Santos Unveils Fitness Pizza

Sports nutrition challenging the norm: The truth about calories in athletic nutrition

In the lead-up to World Pizza Day on February 9th, Kaique Santos, a renowned bodybuilding champion affectionately known as KK, is taking the opportunity to highlight the often-overlooked aspect of dietary habits among professional athletes. KK is stepping out of the gym and into the kitchen to share his unique healthy pizza recipes, below, providing a fresh take on how fitness enthusiasts can enjoy this universally beloved dish without sidelining their nutrition goals.

The notion of a bodybuilder indulging in pizza might raise eyebrows among nutrition experts, but KK is eager to challenge these stereotypes. He presents a nuanced view on how dietary choices can complement athletic performance, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach to nutrition. According to KK, the one-size-fits-all strategy for daily calorie intake doesn’t apply to athletes whose demands can significantly exceed those of the average person. High-calorie diets, he argues, are sometimes necessary to support the intense training sessions and recovery periods essential for those aiming for the pinnacle of physical achievement.

As World Pizza Day draws near, KK is candid about the allure of enjoying a slice of traditional pizza. However, he stresses the importance of not letting these indulgences derail one’s dietary discipline. To strike a balance, he introduces two healthy pizza recipes that promise to satisfy cravings without compromising nutritional values. These recipes are thoughtfully composed to blend taste with health, incorporating lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

KK shares, “People often think that as a bodybuilder, I’m limited to a monotonous and restrictive diet. But with a little creativity and the right ingredients, enjoying a delicious pizza that aligns with a healthy and balanced diet is entirely possible.” He hopes his innovative recipes will motivate others to explore healthier culinary alternatives.

With his sights set on competing in the prestigious Mr. Olympia contest in Las Vegas, KK’s commitment to nutrition is more crucial than ever. Representing Brazil on such a significant stage, he is dedicated to excelling in the Men’s Physique category, aiming not just to participate but to emerge victorious and bring honor to his country in the global bodybuilding arena. “I can’t wait to face these challenges and showcase all my hard work and preparation,” KK enthuses, reflecting on the opportunities ahead.

KK’s journey from a newcomer to a professional in the competitive world of bodybuilding is a source of inspiration for many. His story underscores the importance of unwavering dedication and a deep belief in one’s potential. By sharing his experiences and insights into the vital role of nutrition in achieving athletic excellence, KK aims to encourage others to pursue their fitness aspirations while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The emphasis KK places on the individualized nature of dietary needs for athletes challenges the conventional wisdom around caloric intake. He argues that achieving a muscular physique is as much about smart nutrition as it is about rigorous training. By highlighting the integral role of diet in supporting muscle growth and sustaining energy levels, KK sheds light on the comprehensive approach required to reach and maintain peak physical form. Through a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, athletes can fuel their performance and realize their fitness ambitions, proving that achieving greatness involves more than just time spent lifting weights in the gym.

Chicken and Vegetable Pizza

Ingredients

1 whole wheat pizza crust or whole wheat pizza dough (can be store-bought or homemade)
200g of cooked and shredded chicken breast
1 cup of homemade tomato sauce or sugar-free tomato sauce

1 cup of shredded light mozzarella cheese
Chopped vegetables to taste (for example, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini)
Seasonings to taste (oregano, basil, pepper, etc.)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Spread the tomato sauce over the whole wheat pizza crust.
Distribute the shredded chicken over the tomato sauce.
Add the chopped vegetables on top of the chicken.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables.
Season the pizza with your choice of seasonings.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza crust is crispy.
Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy chicken and vegetable pizza!

ZUCCHINI AND COTTAGE CHEESE PIZZA

A lighter option, this pizza features a zucchini crust, topped with tomato sauce, low-fat cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis
1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese
1/2 cup of homemade tomato sauce or sugar-free tomato sauce

1 cup of shredded light mozzarella cheese
Seasonings to taste (oregano, basil, pepper, etc.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Slice the zucchinis thinly lengthwise to form the pizza base.
Place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming a pizza crust.
Spread the tomato sauce over the zucchini slices.
Distribute the cottage cheese over the tomato sauce.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the cottage cheese.

Season the pizza with your choice of seasonings.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is tender.
Remove from the oven, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy zucchini and cottage cheese pizza!

Kaique Santos on Instagram