What Are People's Favorite Post-Workout Snack?- Health Digest Survey
We're pretty firm believers in the reward system. If you do something good, you get a little treat! Working out is definitely one of those things. While some days it may feel more like we're dragging ourselves to the gym than going of our own volition, by the end of the workout we're always happy we did it. And the best part? A post-workout snack.
Aside from being a nice pat on the head for a job well done, post-workout snacks can also be super beneficial for your body. Healthline explains that when we physically exert ourselves, our muscles tap into glycogen stores for fuel and might also break down proteins inside the muscles. When we're done, our bodies will start to seek out what they have lost, and eating the right things after a workout can help to quickly replenish our glycogen stores, enhance recovery, and increase muscle growth.
Health Digest surveyed 610 people to see which snack respondents were most likely to reach for after a workout, and here's what we found out.
Who's on first, (second, and third)?
Fruit took the number one spot with 30.33% of the votes. Dietitian Chris Mohr, Ph.D. told Muscle and Fitness that fruits are great after a workout because they provide the carbohydrates necessary for stopping the catabolic effect that breaks down fat and muscle and replenishes those glycogen stores we talked about. Plus, they're chock full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. Forbes recommends bananas, berries, dates, and grapefruit — and if you really want to boost your gains and speed up recovery — add a hard-boiled egg to the mix for a little protein.
Coming in second with 18.85% of the votes is protein bars. Convenient, tasty, and effective, Livestrong says that protein bars are a good post-workout snack for people trying to lose weight as well as those trying to bulk up and gain muscle. Bars with a hefty dose of protein can act as a meal replacement, decreasing calorie intake and helping you to feel fuller longer which facilitates weight loss. When eaten after weight training, the protein boost encourages muscle gain and speeds up recovery time, helping you to get back in the gym sooner.
Following closely behind were protein shakes with 16.89% of the vote, which Total Shape says is better for those looking to gain large amounts of muscle as they contain significantly more protein.
What else are people snacking on post-workout?
14.26% of respondents said that smoothies are their favorite thing to have after a sweat session. The Houston Chronicle says that having a smoothie after hitting the gym is great because you can load them up with healthy fruits and vegetables to cover your carbs, add some yogurt or nut butter for protein, and of course, water! Replenishing fluids and electrolytes after a workout is key if you want to see the best results.
Toast and crackers garnered 10% of the vote. While cheese and crackers may sound like more of an indulgence than a healthy snack, HealthCentral explains that crackers can be a yummy, crunchy source of carbohydrates, and when paired with tuna or cheese, you get a nice boost of protein that work together to help the body with recovery.
Yogurt came in last with 9.67% of the votes. And while it was the least popular amongst respondents, Healthline notes that plain, unsweetened yogurt is an excellent source of protein, carbs, healthy fats, calcium, and — as an added bonus — loads of healthy bacteria to promote gut health.