Simple High Protein Post-Workout Meals to Fuel Your Body

When you take a look at all the food choices we have daily, trying to make the right ones can be difficult. When I was little, things like McDonald's were a special treat on occasion. Nowadays, we have more access, and even more resources than our parents did to indulge in these things.

Since entering perimenopause, I feel like my food choices must be a little more strict. Now, I absolutely believe in balance, but I do have to combat certain cravings most days. I am typically good with my routine in the morning, and having a plan that is easy to execute for me helps a lot, especially after a workout.

 I could always tell when my metabolism seemed to be in high gear following a workout session, but right now I cannot tell if it is perimenopause hormones or my metabolism, even though I know my metabolism has slowed down. I try to focus on protein with each meal especially following a strength training session. I have listed my go to high protein post workout meal ideas that are simple to prepare. You can make things even easier by having each meal twice a week to take some thought out of your process.

Smoothie: This is an easy way to pack a good punch following your workout. Now, do not get stuck on a fruit smoothie only because you need more than that. While fruit is good, a smoothie made-up of only fruit is pretty much just sugar, and we can do better. Add some veggies (at least a cup) like spinach or kale, and then try adding some good stuff like chia seeds, hemp seeds, or protein powder. I add a collagen supplement along with greek yogurt which helps me to get in over 40 grams of protein in my smoothie.

Eggs, Toast & Lean Meat: This is a classic, and a super simple meal to prepare, but it is all about how you do it. The eggs alone give us about 12 to 14 grams of protein, but we want more. Most times we want to reach for bacon or sausage, but those have a high fat content, and not the good kind. Instead, try a good turkey sausage, chicken sausage or even some fish. You can get at least another 10 grams of protein this way which adds to those eggs in a significant way.

Greek Yogurt Bowl: If you have been here a while, you know this is a staple in my diet. Eating one of these I easily get in at least 20 grams of protein. I also have a serving of chia seeds to bump that up a bit. There are so many options and combinations to create the bowl you enjoy, and it comes together so fast, which makes fixing this meal a snap.

So, as you're planning your menu and preparing for your workout for the week, consider any of these three options to help fuel your body properly. These simple high protein focused meals are just the addition our active and perimenopausal bodies need. What is your go to meal following a workout?