Best Foods to Eat After a Yoga Session

Oct 6

Written By Mark Drost

Yoga rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul. It stretches your limits, both physically and mentally. And

just as you’d refuel your car after a long journey, you must nourish your body after a yoga session.

Let’s explore some of the foods that’ll help you recharge and make the most of your post-yoga glow.

Start by first quenching your thirst. Yoga, especially styles like Bikram or hot yoga, can make you

sweat more than you realize. Because of this, drinking water should be your immediate post-yoga

ritual. However, don’t limit yourself to water. Consider hydrating alternatives like:

 Coconut water: A natural electrolyte booster that replenishes lost fluids.
 Herbal teas: Calm the senses and offer hydration. Choose non-caffeinated versions.

Your muscles are hard at work during yoga. From those challenging vinyasas to holding poses, they

deserve a protein-packed treat afterward. Incorporate these into your post-yoga meals:

 Greek yogurt: Rich in protein and offers a dose of probiotics beneficial for gut health.
 Eggs: A versatile food that provides all the essential amino acids.
 Quinoa: A plant-based protein source, great for vegetarians and vegans.

Replenish the glycogen stores that yoga depletes. Carbohydrates will do the trick:

 Fresh fruits: Like bananas or berries. They provide quick energy and are rich in antioxidants.
Delicious with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, too!
 Oats: A slow-releasing carb source that provides sustained energy.
 Sweet potatoes: Not just tasty but packed with essential vitamins.

Contrary to popular belief, fats are good! The key is choosing the right kind:

 Avocado: A creamy treat full of monounsaturated fats.
 Nuts and seeds: Think almonds, chia, or flaxseeds. They offer omega-3 fatty acids, perfect

for reducing post-yoga inflammation.

Yoga is all about balance, and so should be your diet:

 Leafy greens: Spinach or kale can be easily tossed into smoothies or salads.
 Broccoli: Rich in iron and calcium.
 Bell peppers: A vitamin C powerhouse to boost your immunity.

Sometimes, a full meal might not be on the agenda right after yoga. For those times, healthy snacks

come to the rescue. Try:

 Hummus and carrot sticks: A protein-rich dip paired with a crunchy veggie.
 Rice cakes with almond butter: A balanced combo of carbs and protein.
 A handful of mixed nuts: Just the right mix of healthy fats and proteins.

Your digestive system also benefits from the twists and turns of yoga. To keep it in optimal

condition, eat:

 Fermented foods: Include foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, or kombucha, which are abundant
in probiotics.
 Whole grains: Foods like barley, brown rice, or whole wheat bread can be beneficial for
digestion.
 Ginger or peppermint tea: These are known for their soothing properties and can help in
digestion post-yoga.

Your yoga mat is a place of growth, reflection, and immense effort. As you roll it up at the end of a

session, think about how you will nourish your body. Make hydration a priority, and balance your

intake of proteins, carbs, and fats.

Mark Drost

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