After a good workout session, one of the most challenging questions to ask yourself is, “what should I eat today?.” Post-workout foods are tricky; should I eat those that can bring back energy and protein? Or to only eat fruits.?


If you’re still confused and need a plan, here is a guide to the list of foods that you can prepare after a post-workout. 


To reduce the risk of contracting any type of health problem, it is essential to know that you should get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. Generally, getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily is best. Those who want to lose weight, maintain weight, or attain specific fitness goals may need to exercise more frequently.


Reducing your sitting time is also crucial because the longer you sit each day, the greater your risk of metabolic disorders. Sitting too much can adversely affect your health and longevity, even if you get the recommended amount of physical activity daily. According to some research, people who have lost weight may be more likely to keep off their lost pounds if they sit less during the day after losing weight.


Do you have the time to spend long chunks of time on an activity? Even brief bouts of activity have their benefits. For instance, if you cannot fit in one 30-minute walk during the day, try a few five-minute walks instead. Any activity is better than no activity at all. The most important thing is to make regular physical activity a part of your daily routine.


Foods to eat after you work out


In your post-workout meal, providing your body with the proper nutrients is vital to speed up the recovery process and maximize the benefits of your workout. Choosing easily digested foods will facilitate the absorption of nutrients more quickly.


In the following list, you will find examples of foods that are simple and easy to digest:


Carbs


sweet potatoes,

chocolate milk,

quinoa, and other grains,

fruits (such as pineapple, berries, banana, and kiwi),

rice cakes,

rice,

oatmeal,

potatoes,

pasta,

whole grain bread, and

edamame,


Protein


animal- or plant-based protein powder,

eggs,

Greek yogurt,

cottage cheese,

salmon,

chicken,

protein bar, and

tuna


Fats


avocado,

nuts,

nut butter,

Seeds, and

trail mix (dried fruits and nuts)


As a result of exercising, your body is better able to rebuild glycogen and protein, so after exercising, it becomes more efficient.


Consequently, consuming a combination of carbohydrates and protein within 45 minutes of exercising is advisable as a preventative measure against this kind of problem occurring again in the future by consuming a combination of carbohydrates and protein within 45 minutes of exercising. Experts have suggested that you eat your post-workout meal within 45 minutes of your workout because delayed carb consumption by as little as 2 hours after a workout could result in a 50% reduction in glycogen synthesis.


According to recent studies, there is an increasing amount of research indicating that the post-exercise window for maximizing muscle growth may last for several hours after exercising, which is even longer than previously assumed. Moreover, eat a meal that is very rich in carbohydrates and protein a few hours before you exercise. You will still be able to benefit from it even after you have finished exercising, as long as you are not overeating food afterward.


It is also important to remember that recovery is not just about what you consume immediately following a workout; when you exercise consistently, the process continues for hours. You should continue to eat small, balanced meals every 3–4 hours of carbohydrates and protein.


Sources:

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/exercise/faq-20057916 
  2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eat-after-workout#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2