Food Sabotage
It happens to the best of us. We finish a killer workout and all we want to do is eat. Refueling your body after intense physical exercise is one thing, but overeating is another.
So why does it happen? The reason is pretty simple. Physical activity of any kind raises your metabolism and speeds up the digestion process. The more intense the activity, the bigger the boost, which is why cardiovascular exercise often leaves you with the biggest cravings.
There are some other processes at play as well. Your body also uses up vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes in order to sustain long periods of energy output. So when depleted, those systems can also signal your brain to top up on energy sources, which is why we sometimes crave sugar after a workout.
Nevertheless, by slowing down and making some smart choices, you can still refuel without totally overdoing it. Here are 5 strategies to help you out.
5 Strategies to Avoid Post Workout Overeating
Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a bigger role in hunger and cravings than you might think. In fact, when you’re dehydrated, you actually experience hunger-like sensations that are often confused for the food variety. So stay hydrated throughout your workout, and you’ll at least reduce the intensity of those cravings after your workout.
Stay Fueled
Besides staying hydrated in general, you might also consider using an intra-workout supplement to sustain your energy throughout your workout. These kinds of supplements will prevent many of your body’s resources from becoming depleted, and at least, provide some alternative energy sources.
