Although it’s important to eat something that will give you real and powerful energy before you go to the gym, it’s even more important to eat something after. Not just any something, you need food that helps repair muscle tissue and replenish glycogen stores.
Here are six of the best snacks you can have after a workout, they have an adequate supply of protein, which contains amino acids that help build muscle that your body will generously receive and appreciate each time. Remember to nurse your body, so it can nurse you.
A protein boost shake
You want ample protein combined with healthy carbohydrates after a hard workout, so prepare yourself this amazing protein shake:
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1½ cups water (you can substitute cocnut water if you like!)
• 1/2 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
• 1/4 cup raw oatmeal
• ½ cup crushed ice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Blend and drink immediately.
Banana & Peanut Butter on (Full of Fiber) Brown Rice Cakes
Often after a grueling workout you feel like you need something more substantial, a healthy peanut butter and banana sandwich works perfectly, but instead of bread how about exchanging those empty calories for extra fiber in two brown rice cakes?
Hummus and Pita chips
For those who love to combine carbs/protein, here is an idea you are going to love. Hummus is a dip made from pureed chickpeas, it gives you both carbs and protein and if you combine it with baked whole-wheat pita chips, you will feel fueled for hours, add some sliced veggies to your plate too, peppers, carrots, celery, and broccoli are wonderful with hummus!
Natural Yogurt with powerful Antioxidant Berries
Yogurt pack nearly 15 grams of protein into one serving, add some berries for carbohydrate-driven energy as well as a powerful antioxidant that will help clean your body faster.
Tuna Sandwich
Build some muscles with a half-sandwich of low-fat protein like tuna mixed with plain Greek yogurt and vegetables on whole grain bread.
Apple Slices & Cheese
If you’re not in the mood for whole protein here is an on-the-go snack idea you are going to love, spread some cottage cheese on a couple of apple slices, and you will have a delicious, energy-boosting, and glycogen-replenishing snack. You can also try some natural peanut butter with your sliced apples, yummy!
Edited 7/30/14 SCD
