5 best foods to eat after an intense workout

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After an intense workout, the body will lose the essential nutrients it requires to recuperate, and while it is tempting to gobble up a big, fatty double cheeseburger with bacon and a large milkshake, it is best to stick to a healthy and well-balanced meal to avoid wasting the calories you've burned.

Finding the right and proper post-workout recovery food is important because your body will need to replenish its energy storage, aid in building and repairing muscle tissues, and restore your body's fluid and electrolyte environment. With this in mind, here is a list of the five best foods to consume right after an intense exercise regimen.

HYDRATE WITH GOOD OLD WATER

Buzz Feed recommends that in order to rehydrate faster, people should drink lots of water. Failure to properly hydrate yourself after an intense workout may lead to fatigue, light-headedness and loss of consciousness. Always remember to consume at least two to three glasses of water in order to replace every pound you've lost in your workout.

MULTIGRAIN HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER & HONEY

Shape Magazine writes that as the body requires a boost of energy to keep you going, combining protein with carbohydrates half an hour to an hour after your workout is your best "go-to meal". Not only will it restore your glycogen stores, it will also boost your metabolism to continue burning fat. However, instead of eating regular PB&J, try something healthier like multigrain bread with raw peanut butter from crushed almond nuts and agave honey.

HOMEMADE BURRITO WITH FRESH AVOCADO & RED BEANS

About Health recommends eating whole grain wraps to tickle your taste buds and keep your tummy full. However, make sure that you prepare it yourself so you know the ingredients you add in your wrap. Using a high-fiber option with alternative protein choices like beans or legumes and adding avocado or salsa is not only a healthier choice, but a guaranteed "pick-me upper" to satisfy hunger at a more affordable price.

SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH QUINOA

Buzz Feed adds that besides being a superfood, quinoa is known to have more protein and fiber than brown rice. So technically, consuming quinoa means providing your body more vitamins and nutrients without sacrificing taste and satiety factor. Add in  a cup of scrambled eggs to supply your vitamin D and you have a complete, post-workout meal that is under 200 calories.

EASY, PEASY BANANA ON NON-FAT GREEK YOGURT

About Health adds that bananas is one of the best energy-boosting foods that is readily-available and easy to eat. It is rich in the kind of carbs that help bring back the energy you've lost during workout with an added splash of potassium. Mix it to your favorite non-fat Greek yogurt to make sure you have protein for muscle repair.