After a long workout, let alone a long week, your body and mind crave much-needed nutrients that are commonly depleted from your everyday activities and intense workouts!
Take into consideration the value of recommended steps to give your body the energy and nutrients it needs…
Why Whey
Burning the amount of protein that we do on average through a workout not only depletes us of current protein in the body, but also much needed sugars and other very important naturally chemicals, such as Lactoferrin. This is especially important, as it naturally supports the immune system, which can be commonly depleted of strength during a workout as we are burning more than just fats and calories. Consider the value of the healthy fats (and sugars) included in Whey Protein, and whip yourself up a shake!
Eggs inside and out
In a recent study by Dietitian Leah Mark, M.S., C.D.N., C.P.T it’s expressed that although eggs have just 70 calories each, they also include all nine necessary amino acids for muscle (protein) recovery, synthesis, and growth promotion. It has also been found that the yolk on the inside of the Egg is of equal value, as it posses at least 50% of desirable nutrients and proteins. While consuming too much yolk can cause blood and heart problems, cholesterol troubles can be averted and a healthy diet ensued with a controlled daily or bi-daily consumption of eggs.
Sweet potatoes the super food
A recent study by nutritionist Dallas Hartwig, M.S., P.T. shows us that not only do sweet potatoes provide us a reliable source of healthy fats, but also provide glycogen (our bodies natural energy reserves) which restores and balances out sugar intake and control within our bodies. Along with fiber, sweet potatoes provide the necessary amounts of vitamin A and 26 grams of carbs that our bodies can use for energy—equivalent to three days worth!
Avocados
We receive healthy carbs, healthy fats, and promote muscle repair through the consumption of avocados and it’s nutrients. A statement by sports nutritionist Cynthia Sass, M.P.H., M.A., R.D., C.S.S.D. and author of Slim Down Now demonstrated how consuming avocados regularly provides our body much needed muscle repair nutrients such as Vitamins B, E, and A.
Cherry juice
Muscle damage is expected from intense workouts, and the immune system takes a hit when we push our body to the limits. A recent publishing in the British Journal of Sports Medicine demonstrated that individuals who consumed upwards of 24 Oz of tart cherry juice on a regular basis is contributing around the equivalency of 120 cherries to promote muscle repair, growth, and a strengthened immune system.
Green tea
In addition to Cherry Juice, consider the antioxidants power behind Green Tea, and it’s fat burning, energy boosting elements in adding it to your diet. Hot or cold, the caffeine helps to provide a form of pre-workout element.
Chocolate milk
Consider the health benefits, immune system building, bone promoting, and high mark protein contents of consuming Chocolate Milk and take your body to the top with it’s valuable healthy fats and carbs post-workout.
Image credit: Antonio Munoz Palomares