11/09/2021
Protein is a major building block for muscle and is broken down and used to fuel muscle recovery after your work-out. “You actually get stronger after the work-out,” says Bagshaw. While working out, you break down muscles, and rebuilding occurs in the recovery stage 24-36 hours later, which is why protein after a work-out is essential.
If you’re working out regularly, try to get protein with every meal or snack. “It’s slow to digest and will keep you full for longer,” says Bagshaw. But watch serving sizes: one portion of chicken, for example, should fit into your palm.
It’s important to get protein from a variety of plant and animal sources, but Bagshaw says supplementing with whey protein powder is a good idea for a quick fix and it’s an easily digestible form of protein. “A fantastic rebuilder after exercise is a whey shake with fruit.”