Make the most of your workout by avoiding these post-exercise eating errors

Forgetting to hydrate yourself

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It is very important to restore the hydration in your body and replace the fluids you lost during your gruelling workout session. 

Be sure to sip on some H2O after you’ve cooled down and ensure that you are well hydrated before you continue with your day.

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This article was first published on Shape.

 

ALSO READ: THE CLEAN EATING GUIDE YOU MUST READ TO GET YOU OFF TO FRESH START IN 2018

Rehydrating with only sports drinks

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Sports drinks often contain a substantial amount of sugar that is not good post-workout fuel. Other than these coloured and flavoured beverages, store-bought fruit and vegetable smoothies might also contain additional sugary ingredients that just provide more calories than they do benefits! 

Instead, turn to natural coconut water as it replenishes your body with the necessary minerals without the added sugar.

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ALSO READ: 4 WAYS TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN 2018 WITHOUT LEAVING THE HOUSE

Waiting too long for your next meal

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Be sure to eat something within 20 to 30 minutes after the end of your workout session. That’s because your sore and tired muscles need some fuel – and quick! 

It also helps to reduce muscle fatigue and lethargy so take care of any wear and tear with the proper nutrition.

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ALSO READ: 7 FITNESS GOALS TO SET YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK FOR 2018

Neglecting carbohydrates

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Carbohydrates don’t have to be horrifying once you start seeing how they are actually synonymous with terms like strength, power and energy. 

Your muscles need glycogen after a tough workout to regain strength so consume an ample serving of complex carbohydrates such as whole grains or legumes. They provide your body with a steady supply of energy, and power you up for your next sweat sesh.

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ALSO READ: THE CLEAN EATING GUIDE YOU MUST READ TO GET YOU OFF TO FRESH START IN 2018

Overindulging

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Portion size is just as important as the quality of your food. Be cautious about not overeating after a workout, to make up for your post-workout lethargy. 

Prevent yourself from eating too much by stopping when you feel satiated. Load up on fibrous foods that keep you full at a low amount of calories. 

Such examples are whole grains, vegetables and protein.

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ALSO READ: 4 WAYS TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN 2018 WITHOUT LEAVING THE HOUSE

Not planning your post-workout meal

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Whenever you make your way to your gym or workout lessons, make sure to have a post workout meal planned in your head. You don’t necessarily have to meal prep, but have a general idea of what you’ll be eating after your workout session. 

If you only start thinking about your post-workout meal while leaving the gym, you might be letting your hungry stomach and tired muscles veer you towards easy fast food items.

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ALSO READ: 7 FITNESS GOALS TO SET YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK FOR 2018

Skimping on protein

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Don’t neglect the protein! It’s something you need after your workout as well. Protein is necessary for repairing any torn tissues in the muscles that you maxed out during your workout routine. It’s absolutely crucial for proper muscle repair and growth. 

Vegetarians and vegans can find their protein fix in lentils, nuts, tofu and even quinoa!

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ALSO READ: THE CLEAN EATING GUIDE YOU MUST READ TO GET YOU OFF TO FRESH START IN 2018

Indulging in sugary items

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Just because you gave it your all during an intense session of kickboxing, doesn’t mean you can allow yourself to indulge in sugary desserts. 

Pastries have tons of processed sugar which spikes your blood sugar levels immediately, right before the dreaded lethargy slump. Your body then craves this insulin high which will kickstart a vicious cycle of overeating as your hands uncontrollably reach out for sugary and carb-dense snacks.

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This article was first published on Shape.

 

ALSO READ: 4 WAYS TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN 2018 WITHOUT LEAVING THE HOUSE