Have you ever wondered what to eat after a workout? We all know that after a workout our bodies are exhausted, slowed down and want to rest. The last thing we want to do is spend hours in the kitchen making a fancy meal or blowing lots of money on expensive gimmicky health snacks! Today, we’re going to introduce some tasty yet totally nutritious and affordable snacks you can turn to without thinking, for after the gym.
The best post workout snacks are carbs or protein. Protein provides amino acids for muscle repair and growth, making it an important component of post workout snacks, whilst carbs are super satisfying and help to replenish your tired body’s energy.
Let’s get into the list!
1. Boiled Eggs
Contents
Boiled eggs are super easy to prepare, store well in the fridge and can be enjoyed anywhere (just remember to keep them in an airtight container).
They are a great source of protein, rich in vitamins, low in calories and are nutrient-dense. Boiled eggs will help you feel fuller for longer and are a great way to tie yourself over until the next meal!
2. Greek Yoghurt
Greek yoghurt is a yummy post-workout snack that is filled with good bacteria, protein and essential vitamins like B12, B2 and B5. Be mindful of choosing the right kind at the supermarket, as many can be full of hidden sugar.
We suggest buying unsweetened Greek yoghurt and adding your own tasty toppings – like berries, nuts and a drizzle of honey.
3. Peanut butter (or other nut butter) on Sourdough Toast
Deliciously addictive and easy to have on hand – peanut butter (or other nut butters) are the perfect post-workout snack. They’re chock full of protein, healthy fats and essential vitamins.
Like greek yoghurt, many brands can have hidden additives and sugars – so we suggest choosing a brand like Mayver’s that uses minimal and all-natural ingredients.
4. Small handful of nuts and/or seeds
Easy to grab on the go, nuts and seeds are great sources of protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals. They’re a great post-workout snack because they can help satisfy your peckish cravings, are high in protein and their fats aren’t fully absorbed by the body.
Although packed with healthy fats, remember not to go overboard as they are high in calories.
5. Protein shake
The classic “go-to”, protein shakes are one of the most popular post-work out snacks used for muscle recovery and fuel. Protein shakes help deliver the nutrients your muscles need to recover quickly without being too high in calories.
For the best results, try blending your protein powder up with a carb-rich fruit like a banana! This will keep you satiated and support your tired muscles.
6. Nut butter stuffed date
If you have a sweet tooth – this is the post-workout snack for you. Dates have a delicious caramel-like flavour and when combined with peanut butter, they taste like a healthy version of Snickers.
Dates are high in fibre as well as a great source of vitamins and minerals. Top it up with some Mayver’s Peanut butter and you’ve got yourself a deliciously decadent protein-rich snack!
Top tip: It’s best to eat your post-workout snack within 30 minutes of your workout to maximise repair and recovery.
The next time you finish your workout and feel that pang of hunger, reach for these simple snacks. They’re affordable, quick, tasty and will help your body repair itself much quicker. Plus, you won’t need to spend lots of time preparing them or find yourself wanting to make a pit-stop at the drive-thru!