The Best Protein Rich Post-Workout Snacks

The Best Post-Workout Snacks

It is common knowledge that consuming a snack pre-workout is important. However, the benefits of a post-workout snack are second to none, as making sure you get the right nutrients after exercise is integral in enhancing recovery.

The reason for this is that, when working out, the glycogen fuel stores in your muscles are used up and there is a breakdown of some of the protein in the body’s muscles. Therefore, once the workout is complete, the body rebuilds and repairs the fuel stores and proteins.

This process can be accelerated with the right nutrients, which will aid muscle recovery and growth. So, from yoghurt to popcorn, let’s discuss the best protein-rich snacks for after a workout.

Protein shake

One of the best ways to get protein intake after a workout is through a protein shake. This quickfire way of restoring your body is perfect for helping your muscles to recover after exercise, as well as giving you an energy boost.

While there are a variety of different types of protein powders, 100% Whey protein is the one that is recommended when you are just starting out. Remember that there are different flavours, so it might be useful to buy some single servings before investing in a 3 month supply of something you don’t actually like the taste of.

Greek yoghurt and fresh fruit

Yoghurt has a plethora of benefits for the human body. With its healthy bacterial cultures, it is good for digestion and overall wellbeing. Paired with fruit, it makes a great post-workout snack. Fruits such as bananas are digested quickly by your body and they jump-start the recovery process. The nutritional value of this snack can be increased by adding ground flax or chia seeds.

Popcorn

You wouldn’t expect popcorn to be healthy, but it is! As a whole grain, it’s full of fibre and antioxidants and is also a good source of glycogen. This is what makes it great as a post-workout snack, as it aids the body in replenishing glycogen storage after exercise.

Apple with nut butter

Getting the best protein source after a workout doesn’t mean it has to taste bland. A perfect example of this is apple slices and nut butter of your choice. This tasty snack is not only incredibly quick to make, but it is also packed with fibre and protein, which is perfect for replenishing your body after a workout.

Peanut butter and banana smoothie

This post-workout snack can also be used as a pre-workout snack which means you’ve prepared for both, with half of the effort! This smoothie is packed with protein, which is great for replenishing depleted energy stores. As well as this, nut butter is filled with healthy fats which speed up recovery time, having a significant impact on the reduction of soreness after a strenuous workout.

Frozen grapes

Sometimes, we all like having a snack ready which we do not have to prepare. This is where frozen grapes come in. Not only are they a refreshing treat after a workout, but they also offer an array of benefits, such as vitamins and antioxidants, to replenish your body.

We hope this guide to the best post-workout snacks has been useful! Keep an eye on the blog for more exercise, health and recovery tips.