5 Foods To Eat After A Workout To Super-Charge Your Weight Loss

No one needs to tell you that slimming down isn’t always easy. So give those stubborn pounds the one-two punch by taking your post-workout snack or meal to the next level. “After exercise, your body needs specific nutrients to repair muscle and stabilize blood sugar,” says Cassie Bjork, RD, a Minneapolis-based dietitian and owner of DietitianCassie.com. That means the right mix of foods can improve your recovery whilerevving your metabolism.(Article by Sharon Liao)Ready to ramp up your results? The following combos put you on the fast track to weight loss. Aim to eat something within an hour of finishing your workout, when your muscles are primed to absorb nutrients most efficiently. (Walk off 22 pounds in just 8 weeks and get an MP3 player!)

During that fitness class your body burns carbs for fuel. The wrap’s fiber-rich grains and veggies replenish these stores while keeping your blood sugar levels steady, says Jessica Crandall, RDN, a Denver-based fitness instructor, dietitian, and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The result: You’ll feel energized instead of drained, so you’ll be less likely to overeat later on.

Pairing those carbs with protein-rich turkey may help you recover more quickly, according to a study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Plus, “protein helps your body repair and build muscle, which boosts your metabolism,” says Bjork.

Gotta dash after your run? Toss this portable treat in your bag. Not only do thenuts serve up protein and healthy fats, but they can also take the edge off your hunger. In one study, University of California, Davis researchers found that snacking on almonds curbs appetite, so you won’t undo all of your hard work by overindulging later on.

Meanwhile, oranges deliver carbs, immune-boosting vitamin C, and hydration in one convenient package. “Because your body absorbs vitamins and minerals readily after exercise, it’s the perfect time to load up on nutrient-rich foods,” says Crandall.

Quick to whip up and easy to digest, smoothies are an ideal post-workout treat. Shake things up by adding few slices of avocado. Not only does it add satisfying creaminess, but it also can help you stay fuller, longer. According to a study inNutrition Journal, people whose lunches included avocado felt 23% more satisfied—and felt less hungry afterward—than those whose lunches didn’t include the fruit. Bonus: The healthy fats in avocados support your joint function, which can help you pound the pavement or land those box jumps ache-free.

To sweeten the deal, mix in a handful of antioxidant-rich frozen berries and a scoop of your favorite protein powder (or try this organic whey protein), says Bjork. Or, if you prefer, swap in Greek yogurt, which contains 11 grams of protein per half cup.

5 Foods To Eat After A Workout To Super-Charge Your Weight Loss

Almonds and an orange

Smoothie made with avocado, berries, and protein powder