AP Photo: PB makes a great post-workout snack
As frustrating as this can be for those looking to lose weight, going to the gym and exercising has the tendency to cause hunger. After burning a lot of calories, it's only natural to be craving some food, but it is important to be careful when choosing your post-workout snack. Following are five snacks that will be able to replenish you after a workout without cancelling out all of the work you've done at the gym.
1. Low-fat yogurt and blueberries
Yogurt is an all-around great, healthy food that would add a lot of benefits to anyone's diet. After a workout, you'll be wanting protein due to the fact that it contains muscle-building amino acids. Though it's probably not the first thing you think of when you think of protein, yogurt happens to be an excellent source. Some good brands of yogurt include Stonyfield Farm and Dannon. The blueberries are another all-around great food that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
2. Sliced turkey and low-fat cheese
If it's time for a full meal after your workout, then a turkey and cheese sandwich and fruit may be an excellent way to go. However, turkey and cheese make an excellent snack on their own. The turkey provides a great amount of protein for relatively few calories and the cheese provides calcium and carbohydrates.
3. Banana and peanut butter
A banana, along with one or two tablespoonfuls of peanut butter, is another smart and delicious choice for a post-workout snack. The peanut butter provides a good source of protein and vitamin E, while the banana provides the carbohydrates you need to get re-energized. Bananas are high-glycemic foods, which shouldn't be consumed on a constant basis, but when it comes to getting your energy back after exercising, they are more helpful than harmful.
4. Hummus and whole wheat pita bread
Hummus, made from chickpeas, manages to provide carbohydrates as well as protein. Whole wheat pita bread happens to be a complex carbohydrate, which means that it provides vitamins and minerals as well as lasting energy. When given the choice, it's always best to choose a complex carbohydrate over a simple carbohydrate, with the exception of fruits, which are often healthy simple carbohydrates.
5. Whey protein shake
Whey protein, made from cow's milk, is a huge favorite of very serious athletes and body builders. This is because whey protein shakes will digest quickly, re-energize you quickly, and they are quick and simple to make. You can mix whey protein powder with water or milk for a quick shake.
While all of those five foods are great for replenishing energy, it's probably a good idea to add a glass of water to your post-workout snack, as well.
Comments