In order to have the best workout possible, you need to fuel your body with the right foods. What you eat before and after a workout can make all the difference in terms of performance and results.
In this article, we will discuss the only foods you should be eating before and after a workout. So whether you are just starting out at the gym or are a seasoned pro, read on for some helpful tips!
Before Your Workout
When you exercise, your body needs the energy to work properly. That’s why you should eat foods that give you a quick source of energy before your workout. Here are some of the best foods to eat before working out.
#1 – Apple and Peanut Butter
Apples are a great source of energy and they also have the added benefit of being low on the glycemic index. This means that they won’t cause a spike in your blood sugar levels, which can lead to a crash later on.
Peanut butter is another great pre-workout snack. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, both of which will help to keep you feeling full and energized throughout your workout.
#2 – Trail Mix
Trail mix is the perfect snack for a pre-workout boost. It’s packed with healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates, all of which will help to fuel your workout. This classic combination is perfect for providing energy and protein before a workout.
Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you like your yogurt sweet or savory, there’s a perfect granola recipe out there for you. Just make sure to choose a trail mix that doesn’t contain too much sugar. Otherwise, you’ll end up crashing midway through your workout.
#3 – Yogurt with Granola
Yogurt with granola is a great post-workout snack. The yogurt will help to replenish your body’s glycogen stores, while the granola provides a boost of complex carbohydrates.
This combination will help to restore your energy levels and repair your muscles after a tough workout.
#4 – Protein Bars
If you’re like most people, you probably think of protein bars as nothing more than glorified candy bars. And while it’s true that some protein bars are high in sugar and calories, there are also plenty of healthy options out there. In fact, a protein bar can be a great pre-workout snack because it provides energy and nutrients that your body needs to perform at its best. Here are five tips for choosing the right protein bar for your workouts.
- Look for a bar with moderate amounts of sugar. Too much sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can lead to fatigue.
- Choose a bar with healthy fats. These help fuel your body during long workouts and prevent cravings later on.
- Find a bar with at least 20 grams of protein. This will help repair and build muscle after your workout.
- Avoid bars with artificial sweeteners. These can cause gastrointestinal issues and may not be as effective at preventing cravings.
- Make sure the bar contains dietary fiber. This will help you feel fuller longer and prevent overeating later in the day.
#5 – Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to start your day or to have as a pre-workout snack. They are packed with nutrients and fiber, and they are easy to make.
You can choose any combination of fruits and vegetables that you like, and you can add protein powder or other supplements if you need them. Smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables, and they taste great too!
After Your Workout
There are a number of foods that you can eat only after a workout. This is because they provide the body with essential nutrients that it needs to rebuild and refuel muscles. Replenishing your energy stores is important after a strenuous workout, and these foods can help do just that. Here are the best foods to eat after a workout!
#1 – Smoothie
There’s no better way to recover from a tough workout than with a delicious and nutritious smoothie. Packed with protein, carbs, and essential vitamins and minerals, smoothies are the perfect way to refuel your body and help it repair muscle tissue.
You can choose any combination of fruits and vegetables that you like, and you can add protein powder or other supplements if you need them. Smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables, and they taste great too!
#2 – Fruit and Yogurt
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, fruit and yogurt is a great option. Yogurt is packed with protein, which will help your muscles recover, and the fruit provides simple sugars that can help replenish your energy levels.
You can choose any type of yogurt you like, but Greek yogurt is a good option because it’s higher in protein than regular yogurt. And as for fruit, you can really choose any type that you like. Berries are a good option because they’re packed with antioxidants, but feel free to mix it up and add whatever sounds good to you.
#3 – Chocolate Milk
If you’re a fan of chocolate milk, you’ll be happy to know that it’s actually a great post-workout drink. Chocolate milk has a perfect ratio of carbohydrates to protein, which makes it ideal for helping your body recover after a tough workout.
Plus, it’s delicious, so that’s always a bonus. Just make sure to choose a brand that uses real milk and cocoa powder, rather than artificial ingredients.
#4 – Toast with Peanut Butter
Toast is a classic breakfast food, but it can also be a great post-workout snack. Peanut butter is a good source of protein, which will help your muscles recover, and the complex carbohydrates in toast will give you a much-needed energy boost.
If you’re feeling really hungry after your workout, you can always add a slice of cheese or some fruit to your toast for an even more filling snack.
Just make sure to choose a whole-wheat or multigrain bread for the healthiest option, and avoid adding too much sugar to your peanut butter.
#5 – Two Hard-Boiled Eggs with Fruit
Eggs are another great source of protein, and they’re also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Hard-boiling them ahead of time makes for a quick and easy snack that you can take with you on the go.
Pair your eggs with some fresh fruit, like an apple or a banana, for a well-rounded snack that will give you sustained energy until your next meal.
Conclusion
So, now you know the best foods to eat before and after your workouts. Make sure you have some easily digestible carbohydrates and a good source of protein within 30 minutes after your workout to help refuel and repair your muscles. And remember, always consult with a doctor or nutritionist if you’re unsure about what’s best for your body!
