Red Meat
After a workout, many people turn to red meat for its protein and iron. However, this type of post-workout food choice can do more harm than good. Red meats contain an abundance of saturated fat, contributing to inflammation of the muscles and joints after working out. This can lead to increased soreness, stiffness, and joint discomfort while significantly negating any benefits from the exercise session.
For those who want to refuel correctly after a workout, lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish provide the nutrients with lower amounts of unhealthy fats. Additionally, consuming red meat can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Vegetarian sources like beans and lentils are good alternatives that promote muscle recovery.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol post-workout is counterintuitive and can be detrimental to your body. Not only does it lack any nutritional value, but it will also prevent the body from rehydrating and recovering faster. As the liver works to process the alcohol, the energy used for recovery reduces. Furthermore, alcohol has a diuretic effect, further dehydrating the body and making it difficult for them to rebuild tissue damaged during exercise.
