After a great workout, it’s time to refuel. But not all post-workout snacks are created equal...
What you choose to eat can have a big impact on how much your body benefits from all that hard work you’ve done. While chowing down on junk food can limit your progress and increase inflammation, eating the right snacks after your training can ensure that your body has all support it needs to recover, repair, and thrive.
To keep pain and inflammation low after your workout, focus on anti-inflammatory foods. Here are five of the best anti-inflammatory post-workout snacks!
5 Anti-Inflammatory Post-Workout Snacks
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Berry Smoothies
Why eat berries? Berries (like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries) are some of the best anti-inflammatory foods due to their high antioxidant contents. These antioxidants reduce cellular damage and reduce your risk of chronic disease. For athletes specifically, berries can help improve the body’s ability to repair and recover from injuries.
Try it: Berries are excellent in a post-workout smoothie. You can combine them with your other favorite post-workout ingredients (like bananas, protein powder, or leafy greens) to make a super-powered snack.
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Salmon Meatballs
Why eat salmon?Fatty fish like salmon, herring, or mackerel is rich in fatty acids that help the body fight inflammation, heal, recover, and thrive. Omega-3s offer protective and reparative benefits for the muscles and joints, while also enhancing brain power, focus, and memory.
Try it: A simple lunch of grilled salmon, quinoa, and sauteed leafy greens would make an excellent meal after a late morning workout. Alternatively, prepare some simple salmon “meatballs” to enjoy as a quick snack after your training.
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Avocado Toast
Why eat avocado? Avocado is a beloved snack, and for good reason! It’s versatile, creamy, and absolutely delicious. But it also packs an anti-inflammatory punch. Avocado is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, fiber, and potassium. After a workout, it helps to repair muscle and replenish B vitamins.
Try it: Avocado can add creaminess to your post-workout smoothies. Or, make a simple guacamole dip for veggies, add avocado to a veggie omelet, or make a post-workout avocado toast.
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Matcha (Green Tea) Shake
Why drink green tea? Instead of sipping on a sugary soda, an energy drink, or a heavy latte before or after your workout, consider drinking green tea. Green tea is rich in a substance called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Drinking green tea daily can be a simple way to both boost your energy and prevent disease.
Try it: Like it hot? Brew yourself a warm mug of loose leaf green tea. Prefer something colder? Make a cup of iced green tea. Want more of a snack than a beverage? Make this high-protein matcha shake.
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Chia Seed Pudding
Why eat chia seeds? Chia seeds are packed with nutrition. They contain healthy fats, tons of fiber, protein, and several essential vitamins and minerals. In addition to their anti-inflammatory benefits, athletes who eat chia seeds can benefit from their stable source of energy and improved fat metabolism.
Try it: Chia seeds can be added to smoothies, shakes, salads, oatmeal, and more. Or, enjoy them as a protein-powered chia seed pudding.
Improve Your Post-Workout Routine with Anti-Inflammatory Habits
Eating the right foods post-workout is an excellent way to ensure you’re making the most of your training. Just like we need the right nutrients to help our bodies repair and grow, we also need the right recovery habits.
Unstoppable CBD Sports Recovery Gel makes taking care of your muscles and joints post-workout fast and easy. Simply roll our CBD gel over any areas of pain, tightness, or soreness after your workout to reduce inflammation and soothe pain.
Improve your post-workout recovery today with Unstoppable’s Sports Recovery Gel!