After spending some time burning calories in the gym, it is important to get the right types of food to refuel and enhance muscle recovery. There are also certain foods that you need to avoid after the workout to maintain good health and get the best benefits from the physical activity.

1. Raw vegetables

Although vegetables are recommended in almost any diet, these are not the right kind of food to eat after a grueling workout. Because raw vegetables tend to be very low in calories, these will not be enough to refuel your body after you expend a lot of energy. Low-calorie foods after workout will not maintain a good metabolic rate. One study published on NCBI revealed how carbohydrates in adequate amounts can help maintain energy and fluid balance, especially during extreme physical activities.

2. Fast food or junk food

These items are high in fat and cholesterol which will slow down digestion. Some of your objectives when exercising are to keep your metabolism up and digestive system active hours after. If you eat post workout food that are high in fats, you fail to replenish glycogen in your muscles as well as immediately regain all the fat and calories you just burned. A study conducted at John Hopkins Bloomberg showed that exercise without the right diet can lead to obesity.

3. Chocolate

Chocolate, candy and other sugary treats must be avoided after hitting the gym. These are high in fat and will slow down your metabolism. You will find it difficult to lose weight if you immediately consume sugary food and drinks as your after workout food. Avoid soda and take water instead for better results.

4. Energy bars

These are actually high in sugar, calories and fat that will only slow down your metabolism and weight loss rate. Take a banana instead to regain energy and opt for a well-balanced meal after the workout that has the right amount of protein and complex carbohydrates to enhance recuperation and maintain a healthy metabolism.

5. Alcohol

Alcohol adds toxins and other waste products in your body that were previously eliminated by exercise. If you consume alcohol as part of your post-workout food, you defeat the purpose of physical activity. Flushing out toxins and chemicals in your body through exercise should be maintained by eating the right clean foods, free from alcohol, free radicals and preservatives.