What type of recovery can be aided by proper nutrition?

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in both physical and mental recovery. After engaging in any strenuous physical activity, such as weightlifting, the body needs an adequate supply of nutrients to repair muscle tissues and replenish energy stores. This process is crucial for physical recovery, which includes the healing of micro-tears in muscles and the restoration of glycogen levels.

In addition, nutrition also has a significant impact on mental recovery. Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help improve mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins support brain health, which can aid in reducing fatigue and enhancing focus and motivation.

The other options narrow the scope of recovery in ways that do not reflect the comprehensive benefits of nutrition. While muscle recovery is indeed important, it does not encompass the complete picture of recovery that includes mental aspects. Similarly, limiting the focus to heavy weightlifting excludes the benefits available to all levels of physical activity, and hydration alone cannot replace the role of a balanced diet in recovery. Thus, the correct answer highlights the broad and critical relationship between nutrition and both physical and mental recovery processes.