When you work out, you get hungry and should eat. Whether you’ve purchased a gym membership and go there 3-4 times a week or you’ve simply committed to working out on a regular basis at home, you’ve probably noticed more than a few hunger pangs after your workouts.
That’s perfectly natural. It’s simply your body’s way of letting you know that it needs a resupply of nutrients. Of course, some foods are better than others. If you’re looking for some guidance about what kinds of things to eat after your workout, here are some helpful suggestions:
Quality Protein – You’ve got lots of great options here and you don’t have to be shy about the quantity you consume, as long as the quality is there. Your best options on the protein front are:
- Chicken
- Fish
- Eggs
- Nuts
Don’t Skimp On Carbs – Even if you’re dieting along with your exercise routine, don’t fall into a diet that requires you to drastically cut, or even eliminate carbs. Your body needs them because they provide a near-instant source of energy. Stay away from processed and sugar filled carbs. Stick with whole grains and healthy choices.
Something To Wash It Down With – Staying hydrated is every bit as important as eating quality carbs and proteins after a workout. Water is, of course, an excellent choice here. However, depending on how much you sweat during your workout, you may want to consider coconut water to help replace lost electrolytes. Perhaps try some some vegetable juice to give you an infusion of a broad range of vitamins and minerals.
If you’re looking for specific food recommendations, here are a few excellent post workout choices:
- Grilled chicken with steamed or sautéed vegetables
- A veggie omelet with some avocado on the side
- A slab of grilled salmon paired with a baked sweet potato
- A bean burrito, brown rice, guacamole and some salsa
Any of these will give your body what it needs after a vigorous workout and make your taste buds happy too!
