What are the best snacks for post-workout?

Answers (4)

Pamela Warren, MS, CHN (Certified Holistic & Clinical Nutritionist) answered (10/6/2012)

You need ample protein to restore muscle fibers after a workout. I would not actually suggest a Soyjoy bar. There are many more healthful things to eat. Try nuts for the protein, yogurt as suggested, or a salad with some good protein from chicken or cheese are much better ideas. If you have ever read the ingredients on a Soyjoy bar you will see that the number of sweeteners comparable to the total number of ingredients are in no way considered a healthful choice. Soyjoy bars are only about 1 ounce and have 11-12 grams of SUGAR - way, way off from any healthful amount. You need good reliable sources of nutrients, ones you can get from whole foods.

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Carolyn Collman, MS (exercise physiologist, nutritionist, aquatic therapist and wellness coach) answered (8/11/2012)

Snacks containing a combination of lean protein, complex carbohydrates and a little healthy fat are ideal for pre- and post-workout snacking. Here are some suggestions:

Whole grain cereal and milk (NOT JUST FOR BREAKFAST – BETTER AS A SNACK)

Plain low-fat yogurt with banana or berries and a few chopped walnuts or slivered almonds

1/2 of a turkey or Peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread

Small handful of nuts and a piece of fruit

A banana dipped in natural peanut butter or almond butter

Apple and a hard-boiled egg

Try to eat within an hour of competing a workout. That's the optimal window of opportunity for refueling your muscles.

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Andrea Wilcox (Registered Dietitian) answered (8/12/2012)

A healthy snack post-workout is important for replenishing muscle tissues and glycogen stores. Aim for snacks with complex carbohydrates (whole grains, fruit) and protein. Here are some ideas:

Tuna salad, turkey or cheese with whole grain crackers

String cheese and fresh fruit

Low-fat Greek yogurt and berries (Greek yogurt has more protein than regular yogurt)

Hummus and whole wheat pita

Rice cake with peanut butter and sliced banana

High fiber, low sugar cereal with skim milk

Trail mix containing dried fruit, nuts and seeds

Hard-boiled egg or egg whites and a slice of toast

Fruit smoothie made with fresh/frozen fruit and low-fat Greek yogurt

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Lisa Stollman, MA, RD, CDE, CDN (Registered Dietitian) answered (10/1/2012)

All of the above suggestions for snacks are great! But I just want to add one more for those on the run: a healthy bar, such as a Kind, Kashi or Soyjoy Bar contain a good source of protein and complex carbohydrate and you can keep a stash in your gym bag, glove compartment or brief case.

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