Consume Sugar After a Workout
Yeah, you read that right … I’m telling all my clients to eat more sugar post workout. Why? Regardless of whether you are trying to bulk up or lean down, the primary purpose of weight training is to build muscle (which in turn can help one burn more calories if weight loss is the goal).
Without getting too scientific, let’s just say that replenishing sugar stores within 30 minutes of lifting greatly stimulates muscle synthesis and that is the primary goal of weight training (secondary to calorie expenditure in my opinion).
Liquids are preferred (gatorade, juice, gels, milk, etc). Also, sometimes I will “shoot” a tablespoon of honey or eat a sugary fruit for convenience. Even a dense starchy carbohydrate will do the trick because, ultimately, it will break down into sugars very quickly.
Just remember to back those additional calories out of your daily budget elsewhere if you are trying to maintain or lose weight and avoid sugary or high glycemic foods during times when you are not active. Happy lifting!
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