In the 30 to 60 minutes after completing your workout, your body is extremely responsive to the foods you give it. And because you’ve used a lot of your energy stores, it is looking for ways to replace them, making this a perfect time to fuel your muscles with the nutrients they need to heal and grow.
On-the-Go Post-Workout Food Options
If you don’t have a lot of time after you work out, you do have some on-the-go food options that are still good for you. For instance, Greek yoghurt is a great post-workout food because it is higher in protein than regular yoghurt. For extra carbs, you can mix in some high fiber cereal or chopped up fruit.
Another good portable food to eat after exercising is trail mix. Throw some unsalted nuts, seeds, and raisins in a baggie and you can eat them pretty much anywhere. Of course, a protein drink is an additional option to consider if want something quick and you can either make your own or most bigger gyms offer them too.
Food Options If You Have Just a Little More Time
If you have a little more time on your hands after you’ve completed your exercise session, you have other post-workout food options too. For example, you could sit down and enjoy a bowl of high protein cereal to give your muscles the fuel they need to recover. Just make sure it is lower in sugar, and you can also throw in some berries for extra nutrients and to keep you fuller longer.
You could also make a sandwich to replace some of the nutrients you lost during your workout. Simply put some lean meat, lettuce, tomato, onion, mild peppers, or whatever you like in between two slices of bread or on a pita, sprinkle on a little salt and pepper, and you’re good to go!
What are your favorite post-workout foods?
