A German study found that low-carb diets inhibit protein synthesis (muscle toning). They cause resistance to HGH (human growth hormone), your primary fat-burning and muscle-toning hormone! That would mean you would burn less fat in the long run, during and after exercise. Low-carb diets also inhibit neural pathways that sense nutrients in the cell and tell one’s body to repair and to heal muscle for fat loss.
Carbs are the main fuel source for the brain and for other muscles. Eat carbs, proteins, and fats after your workout and every few hours for peak performance and muscle toning! You have a 45 minute window for this after your workout, so carry a mini-cooler if you must, and pack one of our easy LiveRite shakes to burn belly fat and fat from all over.
Here are some other quick post-workout meals that include healthy carbs. They are mini-meals, designed to be eaten after working out—especially after working out on low glycogen stores in the morning.
- 1 apple, a handful of almonds (about 12-15 almonds) OR 1 level tablespoon of peanut butter, and a glass of fat-free milk. (A British study recently found that milk, even 2 % milk or fat-free, helps hydrate your cells and helps with muscle growth.) If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute lactose-free or soy milk.
- Vanilla whey protein with 1/2 cup of Fiber One cereal, 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed, and a handful of frozen or fresh blueberries. Add 1 cup of skim milk. Yum! Enjoy!
Trainer Tip by Sandra Ferrerio, certified LiveRite weight loss coach, trainer, and class instructor at Lucille Roberts in Yonkers. Read her full bio here.