Top 27 Best Post Workout Meals And Food
Whether you’re working out for overall better fitness or if you’re trying to add some bulk and definition to your frame, there are some things to consider beyond your weekly gym routines. Gentlemen, there’s no doubt about it. The fuel you put into your bodies can impact your success in the gym.
That’s because your physique isn’t simply a matter of stretching, building, and sculpting muscle, but one that incorporates overall health. What you eat matters, because your body uses those nutrients to build muscle, burn fat, and improve the appearance of skin, teeth, and hair. While you may not think that the last consideration is important, let me tell you, it is.
You can improve your success simply by adding any of the top 27 best post-workout meals and super foods which contain nutrients and energy-rich caloric loads. You’ll keep your body working to better itself even long after you’ve hit the showers. While it is by no means everything you should be eating, incorporating these foods into your diet will give you an extra boost when it comes to boosting your look, your health, and even your mood.
1. Tuna
While it isn’t the only source of essential Omega-3 fatty acids, it is a great and easy to purchase source. Additionally, it’s a fantastic source of selenium, a trace mineral your body absorbs with water. Packing an antioxidant punch, it aids your body in preventing damage caused by free radicals and also helps you process protein in your diet — for better muscles, hair, teeth, eyesight, and all-around great health.
2. Whole Wheat
Whether as crackers, toast, or pita bread, whole wheat is a great post workout carbohydrate boost for your system. This will help keep your blood glucose levels stable, rather than crashing as your body converts glucose into necessary energy for maintenance tasks in the wake of a workout. It also contains selenium and a host of other nutrients absorbed from the soil in which the wheat is grown, so eat up guys.
3. Egg Whites
If you’re one of the tiny fraction of the population who’s sensitive to dietary cholesterol, you can still derive much of the nutritive value offered by eggs by consuming egg whites. They’re high in protein, clocking in at 4 g per egg white, and naturally low calorie foods—around 16 calories a pop.
4. Cereal
Whole grain cereals — meaning things like oatmeal, not sugar-frosted everything — are powerhouses of phytonutrients, plant proteins, both soluble and insoluble fiber, and complex carbohydrates. They help maintain stable blood glucose, support an elevated metabolism, maintain heart and cell health, and they also prevent constipation. Chronic constipation leads to toxin reassertion from waste. A workout produces plenty of metabolic waste products. Do the math, boys.
5. Fruit Smoothies or Dried Fruit (Oranges)
Fruits are a great way to boost your health. Sterols and other nutrients are what provide fruits with their bright colors. They are also a sweet, energy packed treat laced with vitamins like A, C, K, and trace minerals. Find ways to incorporate plenty of fruit into your post-workout regimen. Oranges, with their high compliment of vitamin C aid in cell regeneration.
6. Milk (Plain or Chocolate)
While some authorities will push the skim issue, the truth is, you need the fat in milk to help balance out the metabolism of the lactose (a natural sugar) and also to aid in calcium absorption. Consider the bioavailability of the nutrients you consume—just because they’re in there, doesn’t mean your body is using them. You aren’t drinking gallons of milk every day. If fats concern you, limit your intake.
7. Quinoa
Commonly misidentified as a grain, this fruitlet contains twice as much protein as other grains with which it is compared. It is loaded with fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients to keep your body building muscle and burning fat.
8. Orange Juice
This incredibly refreshing post-workout beverage is perfect just as it is. Go for the varieties with pulp, so you can add a punch of fiber to this wonderful juice.
9. White Rice
It’s a carbohydrate powerhouse and often an acceptable substitute for other grains in instances of dietary sensitivity. You might also consider trying brown rice, since the germ and bran have not been stripped via processing and provide extra health benefits.
10. Corn
Commonly mistaken as a vegetable, this grain is dense in insoluble fiber, vitamin C and folic acid. The latter two nutrients are essential in the building and maintenance of healthy tissues.
11. Lentils
Lens shaped, these form the basis of many ancient diets for good reason. They are packed with protein, B vitamins, and zinc. What that means for you is excellent post-workout fuel for building healthy muscle and maintaining a healthy immune system so your energy levels don’t flag when you need stamina most.
12. Flaxseed
These tiny almond-shaped seeds are excellent sources of botanical Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These must be obtained through your diet, and are essential in maintaining healthy bones, hair, and skin. As well, they help to regulate metabolism.
13. Kefir
Much like yoghurt, this is a cultured milk product that is fermented. It packs a protein punch as well as bringing a host of good bacteria that will amp up your body’s ability to process food for energy.
14. Bananas
These starchy fruits bring a wealth of potassium, manganese and other nutrients to your diet. Potassium helps your muscles contract and your body to maintain a healthy fluid balance. Be aware that potassium needs the right amount of sodium to work effectively.
15. Salmon
In addition to a huge helping of Omega-3s, salmon brings a bonus of vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus to your diet. Phosphorus helps maintain hormone balances, regulates excretion and protein formation, energy extraction, and cell repair. It is often an overlooked mineral.
16. Blueberries
These tiny miracles bring a host of phytosterols, antioxidants, and nutrients. They help regulate healthy cell growth and body system functions, which will keep you in peak performing shape no matter how rigorous your gym routine. Indigenous populations of North America used these fruits extensively to supplement their diets and stave off ill health.
17. Hummus
Holy garbanzo beans, Batman! Made from chickpeas, hummus is a protein packed snack guaranteed to satisfy. It’s also naturally low in fat and packed with phytonutrients your body needs to heal and maintain itself in that post-workout glow. Chickpeas help to maintain healthy blood glucose levels and prevent the buildup of LDL cholesterol in the blood. Tahini, or sesame paste, is also high in protein and full of calcium complimented by moderate amounts of healthy fats. Olive oil is a perfect source of tocopherol—vitamin E—that is essential to cardiovascular, muscle, and connective tissue health as well as essential to the process of mopping up after a workout.
18. Tree Nuts
Because they are seeds, these foods are all packed with nutrients, proteins, and healthy fats. Consider almond or cashew butter with veggies or just the plain whole nuts. Any way you incorporate these wonders into your diet will be the right way.
19. Broccoli
And that’s how the Romans created an Empire—with broccoli. This cruciferous vegetable related to the cabbage packs an antioxidant punch worthy of a centurion. Not only does it help to fight cancer, it also boosts energy and metabolic efficiency, so you’ll build muscle with Caesar Speed.
20. Pineapple
Get out your grass skirts, guys. This tropical delight brings a host of important nutrients in addition to vitamin C, such as bromelain and salicylic acid that help maintain healthy blood, circulation, and muscle function.
21. Duck
This is a tasty alternative to chicken and offers a boatload of benefits. Lower in calories than skinless chicken, skinless duck breast contains high levels of excellent quality protein, vitamin B3, iron, and selenium.
22. Sweet Potatoes
These New World wonders offer you an almost unsurpassed load of beta-carotene—the primary nutrient your body uses to make vitamin A. Put a little butter on your sweeties, because your body needs the fat to convert the beta-carotene efficiently.
23. Avocado
It’s like buttah! These fruits are filled with extremely healthy fats that your body needs to create healthy muscle, skin, and other cells, as well as to maintain ordinary body processes. That’s what gives them their creamy texture. Try replacing butter on your toast with these gems for a delicious treat or whip up some guacamole.
24. Pork Steaks
Leaner cuts of pork contain less fat than chicken. Pork Steaks or pork tenderloin is the way to go for a tasty and lazy gourmet dinner. Try experimenting in the kitchen with this high protein, low-fat meat. Create a stunning meal with sweet potatoes, salad, and rice pilaf. Impress the ladies. Impress yourself.
25. Spinach
There’s a reason it was Popeye’s secret weapon. A single cup of cooked spinach contains 1100 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin K, and is no slouch when it comes to vitamin A, most of the B vitamins, folate, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, phosphorus, selenium, choline, fiber, Omega-3s, vitamin E, and tryptophan to name just a few of the heavy hitters. While it can be eaten raw quite easily, gently wilting it for a minute (steaming it) will leech away much of its compliment of oxalic acid, a less than desirable compound found in members of the chenopod family.
26. Kiwi
It’s a bird! It’s a fruit! It’s delicious! This unassuming, fuzzy fruit packs a tropical punch of vitamin C and potassium, helping your body bounce back quickly from workout fatigue. It’s a delicious and refreshing addition to fruit bowls, smoothies, and also great on its own. There’s nothing quite so delicious as cool fruit after a workout and a shower. Help your body gear down from the adrenaline-saturated workout high with these tiny fruits.
27. Grilled Chicken
This tasty, low-fat meat is high in protein. It’s easy to buy, easy to freeze what you won’t use right away, and a cinch to grill with delicious spices. You can pre-cook a couple of chicken for use on salads, sandwiches, or as the main feature of an amazing dinner. Keep in mind that while grilling is great, there’s nothing complicated about using your oven, too. Baked chicken makes a great addition to any salad, rice dish, or with sweet potatoes and veggies.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
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This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
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This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
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This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
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This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
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If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
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If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
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Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
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Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
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For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
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For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
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This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
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Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
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The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
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Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
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Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
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This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
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Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
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Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
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Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
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Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
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This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
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Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.