The easiest post workout snack!
Most people find out really quick how important a post workout snack can be for recovery of your body. It helps your body repair all the work you did on your muscles- the more rapid the uptake of the nutrients the better. I am not talking just for body builders either! They have their whole own method of building muscles with their snacks etc. I am talking just for a good strenuous run or workout!
As soon as you start to do any research- one fruit tends to pop up like CRAZY with post workout snacks.
Bananas!
They are absorbed quickly, big plus when trying to quickly restore your energy levels. They have many vitamins and minerals – a great source of potassium, which helps to enhance alertness, prevent muscle fatigue, and control high blood pressure. Oh and some natural fiber!
60 seconds to post work out snacking.
Take your banana and mash it until it gets a little slimy, (like a pudding? )
A hand full of raw oats (or less depending on your preference in texture.)
Your discretion of how much ground flax seed (I put about 2 tablespoons)
Mix it up! (my picture is pre-mix)
Now to add other options Anything you want! I have experimented with:
- Chia seeds
- Cinnamon
- A few drops of vanilla extract
- Almonds
- Whey protein ( another great fast post workout choice)
- Pumpkin puree and Spices
It really can be what ever you want, and if you NEED to heat it to soften the oats ( I do not ), add the flax after you microwave it! The flax will break down in the heat from the microwave. I just eat it cold to ensure I am getting all of the wonderful nutrients flax has.
It is fast, nutritious, and oh so good for recovery!
I normally pair it with some water + whey protein – a fast uptake milk protein. I swear I am ALWAYS less sore when I do this within 30 minutes of my workout. If I forget, I normally pay for it with pretty sore muscles for a few days. My proof enough for faster recovery.
Here are 6 more post workout ideas from Fitness Magazine- here.
I love banana’s 🙂 I put them in and on everything. My favorite post workout breakfast is oatmeal, coconut oil, chia seeds, banana’s, cashew butter and a small handful of pumpkin seeds. Filling without feeling gross and I’m not craving a snack in less than an hour after eating.
Oh yum that sounds incredible!
I’m a sucker for peanut butter, so I love apples or celery with the good ol PB!!