Best Whole Foods for Post Workout Recovery

You have finished a long and grueling workout and right now all you can think about is a hot shower followed by a nap. However, not many of us reach for a recovery drink. We know that we are worn out, but seldom will we think about going that extra mile and think about how energized we might be for our next workout routine.

The thing about a good recovery diet is that it must not just encompass elements that retain energy but also maintain your health without hindering anything that you have worked for. For instance, you feel like having a sugary beverage may make you feel great. But in the long term, all that processed sugar is being stored up as fat deposits in your body. Check out some of the whole foods that should be making the bulk of your post workout diet.

High Glycemic Whole Foods

Food that is rich in carbs like potatoes, rice, bagels, and watermelons all fall under this category. The glycogen stores need to be topped off for the training session that you will follow probably the next day. This way you will be starting every routine on a full tank of quality fuel.

Lean Protein

Though a lot of people treat this as a pre workout food, it helps you a lot if you consume it afterwards. All you need is between 10 to 20 grams of this, coupled with 15 grams of fiber. Black beans get you antioxidants that do wonders to repair muscle damage. Another great source of quality protein can be taken from sources like almond butter and sunflower seeds.

Mixed Berries

Berries have always been a wonderful recovery option; you can just munch on them as is, after you are done enduring leg day. The great thing about berries is that they have a moderate carbohydrate quantity, which does not deprive you of the necessary nutrients and does not overdo it either.

Salad Greens

These foods are high in fiber and antioxidants. Go for the dark leafy greens if you can. They are great sources of protein and calcium. Calcium is important when you are sticking to an active lifestyle as it has the necessary building properties. The fiber helps to keep your cholesterol in check.

Omega 3 Fats

These are extremely beneficial when it comes to a person’s healthy recovery, and the bonus on the side is how this reduces inflammation. On top of that, it supports heart health and assists you in lowering your cholesterol. The most easily accessible sources of whole foods based omega 3 fats are chia seeds, walnuts, hemp seeds, and ground flax.  

You can always go for the next best thing, especially if you have a lot on your plate right now (no pun intended) and struggling with a busy schedule. Get Juice Plus+ capsules. These encompass the right amounts of the necessary nutrients.