You’ve just finished another great workout... and you need some PROTEIN.
Your body is craving some nutrients to help grow and heal those newly depleted muscle fibers. According to healthline.com, “Although the timing does not need to be exact, many experts recommend eating your workout meal within 45 minutes [of completing your workout].”
But the question is: What the heck do you eat!?
Protein shakes starting to bore you? Can’t find a protein bar that tastes just right? Don’t feel like hard boiling eggs and stinking up the house?
Well, you’ve come to the right place. Before you b-line it to the next random protein powder hoping for a miracle, take a look at our list of post workout snacks you never knew existed. From drinks, to cookies, to waffles (yes, you read that correctly), these post workout snacks are so delicious, you’ll almost feel bad about consuming them... almost.
1. Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk. Our ride or die. Our go-to post workout drink. Why are we borderline obsessed with chocolate milk for a recovery drink after the gym? Because, it’s not only creamy and delicious, but it’s packed with natural protein and electrolytes to recharge your body and build lean muscle. Can’t drink chocolate milk due to being lactose intolerant? No problem. Slate Milk has no lactose in it, as it’s been removed with the enzyme, lactase. We believe everyone should be able to reap the benefits and relish the flavor chocolate milk has to offer.
Post workout chocolate milks
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Slate Milk: https://slatemilk.com/
2. Cereal
Cereal has had quite the glow up over the past few years. Look past those highly processed, sugar-laden cereals that we grew up with. And grab a cereal that has minimal ingredients, is minimally processed, and is SUPER high in protein. Having this after your workout will transport you back to your younger years (without the sugar crash).
Post workout cereals
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Magic Spoon: https://magicspoon.com/
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Catalina Crunch: https://us.catalinacrunch.com/
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Three Wishes: https://threewishescereal.com/
3. Cookie Dough
Calling all cookie monsters! This is your time to shine. Hear me out - this is cookie dough, that you can eat with a spoon, straight out of the jar. Or bake it, if it helps you feel more civilized. These are low sugar milk, chickpea or nut-based cookie doughs, and therefore, packed with high quality protein, without slowing you down. Trust me when I tell you, you won’t even remember it’s healthy after the first bite. (You know what pairs great with cookies? Chocolate milk. Just saying).
Post workout cookie doughs
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Doughp: https://www.doughp.com/
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Deux: https://www.eatdeux.com/
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Bhu Food: https://bhufoods.com/product-category/keto-protein-cookie-dough/
4. Yogurt
Yogurt doesn't get the love it deserves, in our opinion. It’s kind of the underdog of snacks. At around 17g of protein per serving, it’s the perfect vessel to build a nutrient dense snack after your workout. And, it’s versatile! Mix and match toppings such as nuts, seeds, nut butters, and fruit. Just be sure to find a greek yogurt that has minimal ingredients with no added sugars. By having a plain base, you’re able to control what you add yourself!
Post workout yogurts
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Chobani Complete: https://www.chobani.com/complete/
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Two Good: https://www.twogoodyogurt.com/
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Oikos Triple Zero: https://www.oikosyogurt.com/greek-yogurt-protein/triple-zero/
5. Waffles
Waffles are no longer just for breakfast. And no, we’re not talking Eggo (good times though). We’re talking about hearty, healthy waffles that can either be made at home or picked up at your local grocery store. Top it with some nut butters for additional protein and you have yourself an unbelievably indulgent, mouth watering snack to have after a workout. Did we mention waffles are ALSO great with chocolate milk?!
Post workout waffles
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Kodiak Cakes: https://kodiakcakes.com/collections/flapjack-waffle-mix
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Birch Benders: https://birchbenders.com/collections/toaster-waffles
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Viking Waffles: https://www.vikingwaffles.com/
So there you have it.
STOP forcing down protein-tasting food or drinks that you don’t truly enjoy. There are so many post workout options out there, and some… are actually delicious. Check 'em out.
Cheers,
The Slate Milk Squad
Written by Sam Okrasinski, Contributing Author