12 Foods to Avoid after a Work-Out

Getting in weekly exercise is vital to a healthy lifestyle, but fuelling up with the wrong food and drinks afterward can hinder the benefits of that workout. Many of us are told that we need to eat right after a workout, but the kind of food you consume is equally important. Contrary to popular belief, a protein shake isn’t necessarily the best post-exercise diet choice. After you’re done with your sweat sesh, do your best to avoid these harmful foods that you may not have known about.

1. Protein smoothie

Not all protein smoothies are made alike — some pre-made protein powders are filled with sugar, artificial sweeteners, chemicals, fillers, and bulking agents. Make sure to check the nutrition labels and ingredient content, avoiding these formulas whenever possible. The same goes for energy bars — some are extremely processed with long ingredients lists, and you should steer clear of those as well.

2. Low-carb foods

Protein gets all the credit when it comes it post-workout nutrition, but carbs are just as vital — they can restore our glycogen, and carbs don’t have to mean refined flour and white bread! Instead, we recommend reasonable servings of beans, veggies, and fruits, as well as whole grains.

3. Sports drinks

Gatorade and other electrolyte filled sports drinks can feel like a refreshing savior after whatever activity you’ve just completed, but in fact, unless you’re running marathons or happen to be a professional athlete, drinking these sugary and chemical-filled beverages after a workout can be even unhealthier than a milkshake or soda. Instead, go for raw coconut water.

4. Salty food

Why do you crave potato chips after exercising? Because you lose water and potassium when you sweat. But a better alternative is to go with snacks like bananas, which can up those potassium levels. If you must go the chips route, try to find kettled-cooked ones, or chips cooked with avocado oil, and only eat a tiny portion as a side to a more wholesome meal.