Feed Your Muscles.

A grueling workout does not give you license to feast on an entire package of mint creme Double-Stuf Oreos – as much as we might wish it were so. After a heavy lift or a long run, your body is primed and ready to replace glycogen stores and repair your muscles. In order to do this, choose a snack that’s a mix of carbs, protein and healthy fats.

A few of my favorites:

Chocolate skim milk. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to drop wads of cash on fancy protein powders. This childhood favorite provides the right mix of good stuff – and it’s downright refreshing.

Banana with peanut butter. I like to slice the ‘nana into coins and add a small schmear of natural PB to each. Watch your portions though – nut butters provide healthy fats, but they’re calorie dense as all get-out.

Almonds and orange slices. Tasty, full of protein, fiber and vitamins - and helps quell even the most raging of sweet tooths.

Whole-grain crackers and hummus. I crave this after a long run, when I’ve sweat out every grain of salt in my body. Hummus is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and both components provide a good dose of healthy fiber.

Turkey and roasted red pepper mini wrap. Split the tortilla in half and share this with your favorite workout buddy. If you put in a very, very good workout, you can add a small dollop of light cream cheese. Small.

Hard-boiled egg on whole-grain bread with a slice of lowfat cheese. I eat this all the time. I can’t get enough. It’s an equally tasty, yet healthier, version of the everpopular fast food breakfast sandwich. Add some Louisiana hot sauce for a little kick.