Post Yoga Nutrition Basics

You might already have an arsenal of pre-yoga prep snacks, like the ever popular pre-workout protein drinks. However, you might not be aware of how important POST workout nutrition is. After a yoga routine, there are several foods that help keep the benefits of your workout going.

1. Drink Plenty of Water

This might seem like a no-brainer, but many people feel so invigorated by their yoga work-out that they forget to drink water. This is a critical mistake. After stretching, your muscles release toxins into your bloodstream. Drink a minimum of 16 to 20 ounces of water after your yoga session to keep yourself hydrated and flush out these toxins.

2. Drink a Protein Shake

Post-workout is one of the best times to take in protein. It helps your body replenish its resources and build muscle at the prime of its activity. It’s also another easy way to rehydrate, especially after strength-intensive workouts.

3. Fruits

Fruits are one of the purest solid food items to consume after yoga. Bananas, in particular, are rich in potassium and sodium, the same electrolytes you lose through sweat. Additionally, fruits are a source of carbohydrates without added fat. They are rich in fiber, giving your body more changes to excrete the toxins your muscles release.

4. Whole Grains

Whole grains are another good source of fiber and carbs to give you post workout energy. Consider oatmeal, brown rice, wild rice, or rice pasta. After a workout, your body will enter an “active mode” that will help you process your carbohydrates faster and more efficiently.

5. Proteins

Fish, lean chicken, and beans are a good way to replenish your proteins after yoga. They don’t feel heavy on your stomach, but they sate your hunger and make you feel satisfied. As a post-workout meal, they help replenish your stores of nutrients when you need it most.

6. Yogurt

Yogurt is a double-dose of good things: protein and probiotics. Since you are already focused on cleansing your body of toxins, the probiotics in the yogurt help promote good activities in your gut.

7. Green Tea

Another good way to help cleanse your body after a workout, the antioxidants in green tea fight damaging particles called free radicals. Studies suggest that reducing free radicals in your body help you look younger and fight aging more efficiently. Additionally, drinking green tea after a yoga workout adds to your post yoga relaxation.

General Rules Explained

You may have noticed a trend in this basics list: replenish, enhance, and detoxify. While many of these simple foods can easily be a pre-yoga snack, these foods in particular are focused on restoring your body afterwards.

Do you have a favorite after yoga nutrition tip? Let us know about it! Take a yoga class and share your tips with us!