Is it necessary to refuel your body after a workout?

[MrsDRock]

I am doing the 30 Day Shred DVD (with Jillian Michaels) about 5x/week, in addition to aerobics classes 3x/week.
After a workout, is it necessary to "refuel" your body with food?
IF so, what foods are preferable after a workout?

[Brook]

Re: Is it necessary to refuel your body after a workout?

This has been a debate for a long, long time and will likely continue to be.

I eat when I'm hungry. I don't eat when I'm not. I don't force food to meet a random (or planned) number, and I don't structure food around my workouts- except that I almost always workout on an empty stomach (personal preference).

That said, I usually eat within 30-45 minutes of working out - and I eat the usual- primarily protein/fat with healthy carb. No magic mix, no nothing- but I'm a big advocate of KISS (keep it simple stupid!). It works for me

[BoxerLoverBaby]

Re: Is it necessary to refuel your body after a workout?

I agree with Brook, I always workout on am empty stomach just feels better for me...And I only eat when I'm hungry I don't force myself to eat right after. Typically by the time I get home for the gym, shower, and get ready (about an hour later, hour and a half somtimes) I am ready to eat. So I don't think it's necessary to refuel I would just go with what your body tell you to do

[4themasses]

Re: Is it necessary to refuel your body after a workout?

I agree with both. Work out on an empty stomach so your body taps into the fat stores quicker. With that being said, working out in the AM is 300% better that late afternoon. If afternoon is optimum for you, fast for about 2-3 hours before!
While working out your breaking down muscle tissue. It needs to rebuild itself so yes, within 30 min. to 1 hour you need a protein source to take advantage of this.
It can be anything...steak, chicken, tuna whatever. That and A LOT OF WATER to help the cellsl out!!
A multivitamin is recommended as well. If you take 2 a day, take one after the workout.