It’s been said that your workout is only as good as your recovery. Skipping the rebuilding process can set back your progress and even put you at risk for injury. That being said, there is only so much foam-rolling we can do! So here are five different foods that will combat your post-workout aches.
1. Tumeric
Some health food stores and supermarkets sell the fresh rhizomes, or roots, which you can juice or add to smoothies. Or you can find the ground version in almost any spice aisle. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to be as effective as ibuprofen at relieving pain.
2. Ginger
A member of the same plant family as turmeric, ginger interferes with inflammatory enzymes and can reduce soreness by up to 25 percent 24 hours post-workout. Mince or grate the root and add it to stir-fries, or steep it in hot water to make tea.
3. Tart cherry juice
Research suggests that tart cherry juice may be more effective than aspirin. But because the juice is a concentrated source of sugar, it’s recommend that you drink it only during the week before a big effort or race. Have one tablespoon in the morning, and one within the hour or two after your workout.
4. Fatty fish
The omega-3s in salmon and anchovies can increase range of motion and blood flow to the muscles while decreasing soreness. The American Heart Association advises eating fish, particularly the fatty kind, at least two times a week, but if you’re not a big seafood fan, you can take a daily supplement with 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams of omega-3s.
5. Coffee
In one study, people who were given a pill with the same amount of caffeine found in about two and a half cups of coffee had significantly lower levels of pain during a cycling workout. And another study found that about that same amount of caffeine cut post-workout pain by nearly 50 percent.
Relevant source:
Curated from Equinox.com
