Nutrition plays a key role in building fitness. Learning to eat right after a workout has its benefits. 30-60 minutes after a workout is the best time to eat carbohydrate rich foods because that is when enzymes are most active. This will quickly help muscles recover and restore energy. Proper eating after exercise revitalizes and rebuilds fatigued muscles. Protein helps with recovery and repairs muscles.
A FEW FOLLOW UP MEAL IDEAS THAT COMBINE PROTEIN AND CARBOHYDRATES INCLUDE:
- Granola, which can be mixed with low fat yogurt or eaten by the handful as an easy on the go snack.
- Smoothies with fruits like bananas and strawberries, combined with milk, yogurt, protein powder or peanut butter are refreshing and satisfying.
- Breakfast after a morning workout with eggs or an egg sandwich with a little cheese and veggies make a great power breakfast.
- Salmon with brown rice and vegetables is a meal that satisfies after a workout because it is packed with protein and lots of fiber.
- The most important nutritional strategy after exercise is fluid replacement. Drink water or sports drinks to replace what you sweat out.
- Exercise may initially inhibit appetite, but if you don’t eat within 2 hours of finishing your workout it can delay your recovery and leave you with less energy for your next exercise routine.