Give your body delicious sources of fuel that helps it power through the day.
Replenish your energy reserves with the right types of snacks. Protein is a macronutrient that the body needs plenty of to assist with the repair of muscles. It’s what makes the enzymes, hormones, and chemicals in your body. It also is part of your skin, bones, cartilage, and blood which is why you’ll need plenty of protein when working out intensely.
The right nutrients prevent muscle protein from breaking down, increases the growth of new muscle, makes recovery speedier, and replenishes glycogen which is stored in the body. Protein is easy to come by even if you don’t eat a lot of meat. There are plant-based proteins that you can consume to help your body recover after a strenuous session at the gym.
Here are some of the best protein-packed snacks for post workouts:
A Protein Shake.
Easy to prepare and available in many different flavors, it’s a portable option that you can take with you wherever you go.
Hard Boiled Eggs.
Although a bit messier to eat, this protein-rich snack comes in its own eco-friendly packaging. To enjoy, simply crack the boiled egg shell, peel it, and eat it. You can also add it to salads.
Protein Bars.
Another portable option that satisfies, this snack can be put in your bag and eaten at work, school or in the gym parking lot, whichever option works best for you. Protein bars are individually portioned, delicious, and mess-free.
Tuna or Salmon.
Both are very satisfying sources of protein that can be eaten many different ways. Enjoy fish and all the health benefits it provides for an easy way to recover after intense workouts.
Chicken.
Boneless, skinless chicken can be seasoned to perfection and eaten with delicious vegetables for a snack that helps you power through the rest of your day. A small portion of each is easy to carry with you in a lunch bag or cooler and heated up if needed in a microwave once you’ve reached your destination.
Greek Yogurt.
There is more protein in a cup of Greek yogurt than there is in regular yogurt. If given the choice, always opt for the first. You’ll find that it is thicker than other types of yogurt and comes in a wide range of flavors to satisfy your personal preferences.
Cottage Cheese.
Among the best protein-rich dairy products there is to enjoy, it can be scooped into small containers or bought as individual servings. There are even brands that include fruit such as pineapple that you can mix into the cottage cheese. If you prefer to eat the two separately, they’re put into two compartments to prevent the foods from co-mingling.
Including a source of carbohydrates and healthy fats helps transform an ordinary snack into a satisfying post-workout meal. For example, try enjoying a cottage cheese plate filled with fruits. A pita sandwich with hummus filling also does the trick, as does grilled chicken with your choice of roasted vegetables.
Protein helps you perform your best athletically. It gives you the strength needed to power through the toughest workouts. It helps with recovery and provides you with the calories needed to sustain your energy levels after working out.