We all crave these post yoga snacks after an intense session on the mat. We spend a lot of energy and effort during practice, so it’s only normal to feel hungry afterward.
But having a good snack after an intense physical effort is recommended by most experts. This is one of the best ways to help your body recover after a training session. Or, in this case – after some time on the yoga mat.
Why are post yoga snacks important?
According to Healthline, our body uses glycogen reserves when we are training or doing intense physical activity. It means that our muscles are partially depleted of glycogen, and their proteins are broken down and damaged.
When we finish our workout, we must help our body acquire the lost substances. This is when the body rebuilds its glycogen stores, and our muscle proteins start to regrow. It’s a simple biological process that applies to all people.
When we’re done with our yoga session, it’s the right time to eat some quality food. But what are the best post yoga snacks you can try during these crucial moments of your body’s recovery? Let’s take a look.
Fruit salad
Fresh fruit is always a good option. A mix of fresh fruits like berries, kiwis, melons, and bananas can provide a quick boost of energy and essential nutrients. Also, they are easy to eat and do not require much preparation, which is an added advantage. Just put them in their box and put them in your backpack. When you’re done with your workout, pop them out and eat.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are other snacks that are extremely easy to prepare. A handful of them, such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or pumpkin seeds, are rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them a filling snack option. But don’t overdo it because they are high in calories. A handful of nuts is quite enough for post yoga snacks.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in sugar, making it a great post yoga snack to help repair and build muscles. You can make it even tastier by adding frozen fruit inside. If you want to increase your protein intake with your yogurt, add a spoonful of whey protein to it.
Hummus and veggies
Hummus is made from chickpeas, a good protein and fiber source, while veggies like carrots, celery, and cucumber add essential vitamins and minerals. It is a perfect combination to restore the body after an intense workout. Hummus is not expensive at all, which is an added bonus if you’re on a budget. It’s one of our favorite post yoga snacks of all time.
Smoothies
A smoothie made with fruits, vegetables, and protein powder can provide a quick and easy way to replenish your body with the necessary nutrients after a yoga session. The best part is that you can make your smoothie with whatever products you prefer. Just put them in the blender, and you will have a delicious drink in a few minutes. You can always experiment and find your new favorite combination.
Avocado toast
Avocado is a good source of healthy fats and fiber. At the same time, whole-grain toast provides carbohydrates that can replenish glycogen stores in the body. Here you have to be careful with the amount of avocado because it is among the high-calorie foods. Find a balance in terms of calories and have fun with this delicious food.
Energy bars
If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to prepare snacks, you can grab an energy bar high in protein and low in sugar. The good news is that stores are full of different bars these days. You can also choose between different flavors, depending on what you prefer. This is one of the most accessible post yoga snacks you can have.
When to have our post yoga snacks?
Some experts share the opinion that it is of great importance when exactly we take our post-workout snack. You will often come across views that it is suitable for this to happen no more than an hour and a half or two after the training session.
Of course, there are also some opinions according to which there is no such window that obliges us to eat immediately after physical exertion.
Our advice is to find what works best for you. If you notice that snacking right after a workout allows you to fully recover, keep it up! Find your favorite post yoga snacks and enjoy them right after training.
Don’t forget to drink water
We need to drink even more water than usual when we do active sports. According to the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should consume at least 3.7 liters of water daily and women at least 2.7 liters.
Do you think you meet these requirements right now?
Dehydration is a severe problem that can lead to serious health problems. Remember to drink water regularly both during and after your yoga session. If necessary, set a reminder on your phone or smartwatch to stay hydrated all of the time. Your body will thank you for this.
FAQ:
Why is it good to snack after yoga?
Eating after exercise is recommended to help the body recover from all the physical exertion.
What snacks are good after yoga?
Focus on foods that are rich in protein and healthy fats.
Can Snacking After Yoga Make You Fat?
It’s unlikely as long as you’re careful about the amount of food you eat.
