PROTEIN PROTEIN PROTEIN!!
Your body needs protein and carbs to refuel and recover from a workout. Protein helps build the muscles you just worked, and prevents soreness or uncomfortableness later. You should continue to consume decent amounts of protein a few days after your workout. If you're working out daily, you should consistently consume protein. After a workout, your body is also low in carbs, and needs YOU to feed it. A smaller amount of carbs is needed after your workout, but some is still recommended. If you're not eating a complete meal after your workout, make sure you eat SOMETHING protein filled. For example, a protein shake, greek yogurt, or eggs. Below are some examples of what to eat after a workout. Keep in mind, the harder you work, the longer you work, and the more muscles you work all tie into how much protein and carbs you should consume.
I suggest that you eat 30 minutes to an hour after your workout in order for your body to receieve all nutrients it needs to grow your muscles. Some people believe your muscles need to breathe a little bit before consuming food, but I feel best when I feed them as soon as possible. Experiment with this and do what feels best for your body.
1. MEAT. Chicken is a savory and perfect way to refuel your muscles after a workout. With about 30g of protein within a single chicken breast, it's sure to do the job. Another perfect source of protein is beans. Pair it with some carbs like brown rice, add some vegetables and you've got the perfectly rounded post-workout meal! Of course, you can substitute any meat for chicken, and any carb, but these are ideal for me.
2. Protein shake. Did you workout at an odd time in the day and you're not ready for a full meal yet? This is perfect for you! You can add fruit, peanut butter, milk, protein powder (recommended), and yogurt to create the perfect post-workout shake. I crave these after workouts! As far as what type of protein powder to purchase, Hemp Protein Powder is one of the healthiest options. It's natural and made from plants. However, soy protein, and whey protein don't have many downfalls themselves. I've read a couple things about whey being weight gaining, so if you're trying to gain weight from your workout, I recommend soy or hemp.
Although protein bars can be an easy and delicious way to end your workout, make sure you read the label! Check the ingredients for added sugars, large amounts of fat, or lower amounts of protein than you would expect.
When you workout is crucial to what you should eat. If you're working out earlier in the day, make sure you eat a decent amount of carbs afterwards to keep you going throughout the day. If you're working out closer to the end of the day, try and eat something that will stay with you and keep providing you with protein throughout the night. A great snack to eat before bed that will continue feeding your muscles is cottage cheese!
Your body needs protein and carbs to refuel and recover from a workout. Protein helps build the muscles you just worked, and prevents soreness or uncomfortableness later. You should continue to consume decent amounts of protein a few days after your workout. If you're working out daily, you should consistently consume protein. After a workout, your body is also low in carbs, and needs YOU to feed it. A smaller amount of carbs is needed after your workout, but some is still recommended. If you're not eating a complete meal after your workout, make sure you eat SOMETHING protein filled. For example, a protein shake, greek yogurt, or eggs. Below are some examples of what to eat after a workout. Keep in mind, the harder you work, the longer you work, and the more muscles you work all tie into how much protein and carbs you should consume.
I suggest that you eat 30 minutes to an hour after your workout in order for your body to receieve all nutrients it needs to grow your muscles. Some people believe your muscles need to breathe a little bit before consuming food, but I feel best when I feed them as soon as possible. Experiment with this and do what feels best for your body.
1. MEAT. Chicken is a savory and perfect way to refuel your muscles after a workout. With about 30g of protein within a single chicken breast, it's sure to do the job. Another perfect source of protein is beans. Pair it with some carbs like brown rice, add some vegetables and you've got the perfectly rounded post-workout meal! Of course, you can substitute any meat for chicken, and any carb, but these are ideal for me.
2. Protein shake. Did you workout at an odd time in the day and you're not ready for a full meal yet? This is perfect for you! You can add fruit, peanut butter, milk, protein powder (recommended), and yogurt to create the perfect post-workout shake. I crave these after workouts! As far as what type of protein powder to purchase, Hemp Protein Powder is one of the healthiest options. It's natural and made from plants. However, soy protein, and whey protein don't have many downfalls themselves. I've read a couple things about whey being weight gaining, so if you're trying to gain weight from your workout, I recommend soy or hemp.
Although protein bars can be an easy and delicious way to end your workout, make sure you read the label! Check the ingredients for added sugars, large amounts of fat, or lower amounts of protein than you would expect.
When you workout is crucial to what you should eat. If you're working out earlier in the day, make sure you eat a decent amount of carbs afterwards to keep you going throughout the day. If you're working out closer to the end of the day, try and eat something that will stay with you and keep providing you with protein throughout the night. A great snack to eat before bed that will continue feeding your muscles is cottage cheese!