You’re exhausted and hungry after hours at the gym, so you think of what to eat after a workout. You feel it’s okay to eat whatever you like because of all the calories you burned. Well, hold that thought, and put down the double cheeseburger. The things you consume post-workout are vital to the success of your fitness goal.
If you want to get optimum results from your fitness routine, keep reading to learn how you can achieve that.
What To Eat After Workout To Achieve Optimal Results
Ever wonder why you haven’t reached your goal even after hours of working out? You’ve spent countless hours in the gym, and you’re still nowhere near your target.
After putting your body through rigorous activities, it needs the proper nutrients and fuel to repair and replenish. It’s time you maximize the effect of your hard work by learning what to eat after a workout. You might want to consider swapping that slice of pizza for these tasty after workout treats.
Eggs
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You can never go wrong with eggs as post workout food. The body needs protein to repair and build muscles, and eggs sure can give a pack full of protein!
They’re easy to cook and prepare. You can have them sunny side up or just plain hard boiled. I personally like scrambled eggs on a slice of whole wheat toast.
Oranges
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After your workout, the body needs to replenish lost nutrients like potassium. Snacking on oranges will help reload the body with this important nutrient, and so much more. Oranges also contain vitamin C that promotes stronger bones and immune system.
Next time you feel the urge to drink diet soda or sports drinks after a workout, choose to drink freshly squeezed orange juice instead.
Sweet Potatoes
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Sweet potatoes are good sources of carbohydrates for weight losers and body builders. They have lesser calories than potatoes and other grains. They also contain antioxidants beneficial to your total well-being.
Eating sweet potatoes as a post-workout snack will curb your hunger, and help you avoid binge eating.
Salmon
Image via A Taste of Koko
If you want a healthier protein fix after a workout, go for salmon. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids that’ll help your body recover faster. Omega-3 also helps in preventing joint pains.
Aside from this, salmon also has many essential nutrients like vitamin B6, B12, and Vitamin D that help boost one’s energy.
Banana
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Like oranges, this fruit is also a good source of potassium the body needs to replace after a workout.
If you’re craving for something sweet after your workout, this is an instant snack you can conveniently have with no cooking or extra stuff required.
Cereals and Milk
Image via Muscle Food
Yes, they’re not just for breakfast. These crispy treats, paired with milk, make for a pack full of essential protein and carbohydrates that aid in muscle recovery.
I opt for whole grain cereals rich in fiber to help my metabolism function properly too.
Peanut Butter
Image via Multi Receitas
If you have a sweet tooth, losing weight is definitely a challenge. This is especially so since most desserts and sweets should be avoided. But thankfully there’s peanut butter! It’s one of my favorite go-to snack after hitting the gym because it has just enough protein and carbohydrates while satisfying my craving for sweets.
Grilled Chicken
Image via Mrs Dash
Instead of gorging a bucket of fries or a greasy burger, satisfy your hunger with some tasty grilled chicken. Have it with a side salad, put it in a whole wheat wrap, or pair it with sweet potato mash for a filling yet low-calorie meal.
You’re sure to get your protein fix without the extra guilt.
Watch this video from Fitness Magazine for more ideas on what to eat after a workout:
You no longer have to wonder what to eat after a workout, or rely on protein shakes alone. There are many good options, like the ones mentioned here, that’ll really help you achieve your fitness goal. Just remember to keep everything in moderation, and always be mindful of your food portions.
Check out for more fitness related topics here.
Do you have other ideas on what to eat after a workout? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Featured Image via The Online Health Articles
