Post-workout is an ideal time to eat a small meal with both protein and carbohydrates to help repair and build muscles and replenish your energy stores.
Chocolate milk is an awesome post-workout snack, and it’s delicious, too. I like Organic Valley chocolate milk served ice-cold after I go for a long run or do a power Vinyasa class. I pour it over a large glass of ice and savor it as I cool off. Research also shows that drinking chocolate milk after a strenuous workout may help lessen muscle damage and aid in recovery.
The cream is healthy Greek yogurt sweetened with stevia. I love Fage 2-percent Greek yogurt mixed with a small dash of stevia (or sweetener of your choice) topped with sliced strawberries. Or, you can make a dip and swirl each strawberry in it. Greek yogurt is loaded with protein — between 15 and 20 grams per container depending on the brand and size — and strawberries have antioxidants that can also protect your cells against damage.
Bananas are chock full of potassium which helps keep your muscles from cramping. Potassium is the main electrolyte that powers muscles, so adding it to a whey protein shake makes for an amazing recovery drink. Whey’s amino acids are quickly absorbed by muscles, boosting recovery and growth. I make mine with one scoop of whey protein powder, one frozen banana, ice, and unsweetened vanilla almond milk.
This new bar from Kind has 10 grams of protein and it’s made with 100 percent whole ingredients: almonds, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, pea crisps (made with pea protein isolate) and spices. The jalapeno flavor has a great kick to it and there’s no weird, chalky, artificial taste like some protein bars have. Almonds are a good source of vitamin E and antioxidants which can help fight damage caused by inflammation. I find this bar is perfect after a strength-training workout as I always crave something savory after a good sweat. Great for when you’re on the road and need to pack something with you easily.
