5 Replenishing Foods You Should Be Eating Right After A Workout
Hangry: The state of being so hungry that it literally becomes infuriating -- otherwise known as a hybrid of "hungry" and "angry."
I don't know about you, but for me, the post-workout "hanger" is real AF.
I'm talking stomach-growling, don't-talk-to-me irritability.
Whether you feel like you could easily eat a family of five after your workout, or you're "just not that hungry" (um, who are you?), it's so important to refuel your body with a nutrient-dense snack or meal.
According to Precision Nutrition, by consuming certain nutrients after your workouts, you improve your body composition, performance, and overall recovery.
Right after you exercise, it's vital to replenish glycogen, decrease protein breakdown, and increase protein synthesis, all of which can be accomplished through your nutrition choices.
Alright, enough science -- onto the yummy part. Here are five foods that should be sneaking their way onto your post-pilates plate.
1. Eggs
They're easy to make, absolutely delish, and they're packed with protein.
Oh, and they're one of the only foods out there that naturally contain vitamin D, so if you didn't get any sun that day, be sure to whip up a nice tasty frittata.
Pair these bad boys with a complex carbohydrate like whole grain toast for a seriously nourishing post-workout meal.
But don't let me catch you taking out the yolks. Healthy fats are just as important for muscle recovery as protein and carbs.
2. Bananas
There are "good" carbs and "bad" carbs out there. Fortunately, bananas are the good kind.
Bananas are my favorite because they really just do it all. From repairing your glycogen levels by being a fast-acting carb, to giving you a high dose of potassium, they're basically a miracle fruit.
Pair one with some almond butter for a filling, sweet-and-salty snack.
3. Salmon
According to Men's Health, this fishy food has anti-inflammatory omega-3's that play an important role in muscle repair.
You probably won't be able to cook up a gourmet filet after every run, but if you have leftovers on hand, or you're feeling like Rachael Ray, salmon is a great choice right after a solid sweat sesh.
4. Quinoa
When I think of grains, my mind automatically drifts to carbs. But quinoa's a little trickster.
According to Prevention.com, quinoa packs loads of protein, as opposed to its distant cousin, brown rice.
Oh, and save yourself some embarrassment and learn how to pronounce this superfood correctly.
Say it with me: "keen-wah," not "kee-noah."
5. Hummus
Last but not least, my one and only love: hummus.
If I could bathe in hummus, I would. Seriously, give me a tub and watch me soak the day away in that bad boy.
Fitness Magazine recommends pairing hummus with some whole wheat pita for slow-release carbs and plenty of protein.
Honestly, I'd do an extra 10 minutes of HIIT if I knew hummus would be waiting for me on the other side.