Do You Really Need a Meal Post Workout?

Question:

would it have a negative effect to workout in the evening, have your post workout shake, then go to sleep? would you need a meal or would something like 8 oz of milk be okay?

Answer:

Chicken & Rice: a great post-workout option!

Although not having a meal post-workout wouldn’t keep you from making some progress, it would most likely SLOW your progress.

After training, your muscles are hungry for nutrients, and certain nutrients (i.e. the amino acid leucine) can really jump-start the growth process (signal protein synthesis).

Likewise, filling the muscle(s) (those just trained) with carbs also really helps initiate and speed optimal recovery.

So, if all possible, I would certainly consume a meal after training!  Otherwise you’re begging for slow (or inadequate recovery).   And by meal I mean something more substantial than 8 oz milk.

Best,

Dr Clay