Skin Health Magazine Issue #4 / Summer 2017 | Page 21

4 SNACKS TO EAT POST-WORKOUT F orget protein smoothies and steamed chicken breasts. These are the foods you should be snacking on after a heavy session in the gym. body a safe sugar rush after a workout. When it comes to fruit, stick to sliced apple and grapes, both of which fall into the alkaline category, to actively fight fatigue. Hummus + Pita Bread The main purpose of a post-workout snack is to refuel, repair and rehydrate the body but taste and convenience are just as important, which is why this classic snack is perfect after the gym. Hummus is alkaline, meaning it helps to neutralise built up Lactic Acid in the muscles after a workout, and is protein and carbohydrate heavy, which is great news for tired muscles. Add in the pita bread (wholemeal if possible) which provides slow-release energy and you can avoid the dreaded muscle stiffness that usually blights fitness fans later on in the day. Chocolate Milk Yes, really! According to experts, marathon runners and trusted trainers all over the world, chocolate milk is the perfect tipple after a stren- uous workout. One glass provides much-need- ed protein, calcium and carbohydrates, helping to speed up the body’s recovery time after an energetic routine. It also quickly replaces water that is lost through sweating, plus it’s quick and easy to make. Fruit + Peanut Butter If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, indulge without the unnecessary calories by eating fruit dipped in peanut butter. Providing you don’t load up on too much peanut butter, this snack is relatively low calorie and provides essential reparative carbohydrates as well as giving your Scrambled Eggs on Wholemeal Toast For serious strength trainers and muscle build- ers, make your post-workout snack more like a meal by having scrambled eggs on wholemeal toast. The eggs are packed with vital muscle-re- pairing protein and provide the body with es- sential Vitamins B and D, while the wholemeal toast provides a rich source of fibre - which will go a long way to maintain your energy levels hours after you leave the gym. ISSUE #04 | 2017 | SkinHealthMagazine.com 21