If you’re an athlete, or just enjoy being athletic, getting energy and protein post-workout can be a major concern. Some people assume it’s hard to find good energy sources that are also vegan — but is this really the case? This post will examine snacks and drinks that will complete your plant-based nutrition, and how Chef V’s green drink can be your next go-to post-workout drink.
What makes a good post-workout snack?
You probably put a lot of thought into your pre-workout intake. How about the post-workout snacks? Do you pay as much attention to it as you do to what you’re eating before starting high-intensity activities?
Whether training for a competition, doing a casual workout, or high-intensity and resistance training activities, eating something within two hours will help muscles recover and replace glycogen stores. Along with carbs, protein should be an integral component of the diet as it aids muscle recovery and new muscle growth.
Your body loses water and electrolytes when you sweat during exercise. It’s even more important to replenish these with healthy drinks rather than eating right away after a tough workout. A general rule of thumb is to drink three cups of fluid for each pound lost during competition or training.
Overall, what and how often you should eat and drink will ultimately depend on your activity level and intensity. And since each body is different, follow your instincts in deciding which pre- and post-exercise eating habits work best for you.
Vegan post-workout snacks and drinks
The idea that protein needs to come from animal products is a misconception. Eating a wide variety of foods high in vegan protein can ensure an adequate intake of nutrients. Vegan athletes are increasingly finding that a diet free from animal products can actually improve their strength and performance. On that note, let’s look at some good examples of vegan snacks and drinks to boost your energy.
Power-packed smoothies
If you make them right, smoothies can provide all the nutrients you need after your workout in just one glass. Pour in your preferred protein in a mixing jar — milk, yogurt, or soy-based products. Fill in with the fruits or vegetables of your choice. Add some healthy dose of unsaturated fats, such as avocados or nut butter, that not just strengthens your bones, but also enhances the consistency of smoothies. Add some good fiber, such aslike chia seeds or ground flaxseed and enhance the flavor without adding calories. Blend until smooth. Your refreshing and filling smoothie is ready.
You’ve probably heard the buzz when it comes to green juices but what about a post-workout green smoothie? We recommend trying Chef V’s Creamy Green Smoothie. It’s a great option as a nutritional powerhouse and it’s super easy to make and digest.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is one of the most popular post-workout snacks due to its high protein content – just what you need after a strenuous workout. Boost your food’s nutritional value and add extra taste and texture by adding some fruits or whole grain cereals. Add on hemp seeds, chia seeds, or granola for your delicious recovery fuel.
Salads on the go
A hearty salad can be your perfect post-workout/gym session snack. Use dark, leafy greens, such as kale or spinach, that are high in nutritional value for the base of your salad, and then top with superfoods of your choice — kale, carrot, blueberries, squash, grapes, pumpkin, dried cherries, quinoa, sunflower seeds, or walnuts. Opt for a light olive oil for the dressing, which contains healthy fats your body needs. Here are some of our recommended superfood salad recipes with a protein kick that are great for the cold days ahead — Warm Pumpkin Salad, Warm Butternut Squash Salad, and Carrot Ginger Salad.
Chia seed pudding
Tiny superfood heroes as they are, chia seeds are a complete protein. They come in either white or dark brown/black and have a huge nutritional profile. They contain calcium, manganese, and phosphorus, and are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy omega-3 fats. Having chia after a workout can provide tissue repairing protein and amp up your energy levels. They’re easy to digest, especially when soaked in almond or coconut milk overnight to make chia pudding. Don’t miss to check out our version of Chia seed pudding.
Warm and comforting soups
Don’t feel like refueling with something cold? Soups are a great post-workout snack option this time of year. They can warm you up after a chilly practice, with benefits extending far beyond that. They’re easier to eat after a workout than solid food and will fill you up with all the balanced nutrients.
Perfect for fall and winter weather, this delicious Black Bean soup recipe by Chef V is a must-try. It’s warm, filling, and protein-packed. Always try to use organic dried or canned black beans and organic vegetable stock, preferably homemade. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with healthy fats, such as avocado slices, and you’re as good as full.
Looking for a sweet spot between enjoying cravings and maintaining your fitness? There’s something special about cooking comforting soups like Creamy Curry Pumpkin Soup that’ll warm you up, replenish all the lost energy, and make you feel festive.
Pita dipped with hummus
Hummus and pita are another great post-workout combo. With its revitalizing dose of slow-release energy, whole wheat pita keeps you fueled for hours, while hummus provides both carbs and protein. Bring out the Green Goddess in your post-workout with Chef V’s Green Goddess Hummus. Or try this delicious version of Red Beet Hummus.
Add Chef V green drink to your routine
With the spread of plant-based lifestyles, many people are now promoting veganism as a means of maximizing performance and recovery. If you’re a vegan and looking for a power-packed juice detox diet
to add to your post-workout routine, you can try our 100% organic green drink.
It’s made from seven superfoods, including green kale, black kale, collard greens, dandelion greens, and green chard. These green ingredients are packed with essential nutrients, minerals, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
You don’t even need to do any prep work yourself. Just build your plan, and get it delivered to your door. It’s that easy! You can start with our 3-day juice cleanse and see how that works for you.