Power Up With Smarter Carbs

Eating healthy carbs before and after your workout will help you push yourself harder and recover more quickly, says dietition and nutritionist Priya Lawrence, co-founder of Tried and True Nutrition in New York City and Huntington, New York. But which to pick? These bites will net you extra energy – plus plenty of vitamins and minerals.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Eating healthy carbs before and after your workout will help you push yourself harder and recover more quickly, says dietition and nutritionist Priya Lawrence, co-founder of Tried and True Nutrition in New York City and Huntington, New York. But which to pick?

These bites will net you extra energy – plus plenty of vitamins and minerals.

LENTILS

Refuel post-workout and get long-lasting energy with slow-burning carbs, like those found in lentils, Priya says. They’re also rich in muscle-building protein, magnesium (an electrolyte you lose through sweat), and iron (which fights fatigue). 

BERRIES

A handful of berries – take your pick or have a mix – will provide a steady supply of energy throughout your workout, thanks to their high fibre and low sugar content, Priya says. Bonus: The antioxidants they con-tain will help keep your heart healthy.

DATES

Even mild dehydration can zap your energy, research shows. So after your sweat session, be sure to drink plenty of water and eat foods like dates, which are high in potassium, another electrolyte lost through perspiration. Balance their sweetness with some nuts for protein to help repair your muscles. 

FOOD STYLING JAMIE KIMM

PROP STYLING SARAH CAVE/EH MANAGEMENT

More: workout energy