Refueling your body with appropriate food after running, biking or other cardiovascular exercise enhances recovery, staving off fatigue and low blood sugar. Because physical activity sensitizes your muscle tissue to certain nutrients and hormones, according to Marie Spano, a registered dietitian and contributing writer for "Today's Dietitian," your muscles respond best to nutrients taken in within 30 minutes post-workout.
Go for Grains
Grains provide valuable amounts of carbohydrates, which is the main fuel source for your body and muscles, particularly after lengthy cardio. While they aren't often the healthiest choices, high-glycemic carbohydrate sources, such as a white English muffin or bagel, restore energy in your muscles the fastest. For less rapid restoration, but more nutrients and better stabilized blood sugar levels later on, have whole-grain foods, such as oatmeal or 100 percent whole-grain bread. For the best of both words, top whole-grain bread or oatmeal with honey, which provides fast-acting, higher-glycemic carbs.
Fresh fruit provides a convenient and nutritious carbohydrate-rich option after aerobic activity. It also provides valuable amounts of fluid, which is important for preventing dehydration after perspiration. Fruits particularly rich in water include watermelon, apples, citrus fruits, strawberries, cherries and apricots. While fruit juices provide a fast-acting carbohydrate source, they typically lack fiber and provide concentrated amounts of natural sugar. Instead, have a fresh fruit smoothie, using the entire fruit. For a rich boost of potassium, which you lose through sweat, choose high-potassium fruits, such as bananas, apricots and cantaloupes.
While carbohydrates should be the focus of your post-cardio diet, adding a moderate amount of protein, or 7 to 10 grams, helps stimulate muscle growth and repair. Prepare your oatmeal with a cup of low-fat milk, or have 1/2 cup of cooked lentils with your whole-grain crackers. Other nutritious protein sources include low-fat yogurt, fish, lean meats, eggs and quinoa.