They may not always be viewed in the most positive light by those training hard in the gym but let’s start off this blog by stating on the record that carbohydrates are not the enemy!
The main thing you need to consider is which carbs you eat and when you eat them. This will make a huge impact on your performance in the gym, how your body looks and how your end results will be.
At ABS we tailor our clients diets specific to their goals, body fat assessment and personal carb tolerance. Some people will suit a low carbohydrate nutrition plan, but if you do have carbs included in your plan, here is how optimise your carb intake.
Eating the majority of your daily carbs post workout would be wise, this helps replenish your glycogen stores which helps to store energy within your muscles and liver and takes advantage of your insulin sensitivity.
Now if you’re really resistant to carbs, i.e. your body does not handle them well, eating more complex carbs (see list below) will be better.
If you can tolerate carbs well, simple ones (see list below) will be good after workout, as you will be eating more carbs through the day.
Complex carbs include
Nuts, Seeds and Legumes
- Lentils
- Kidney beans
- Chick peas
- Split peas
Whole Grains
- Buckwheat
- Brown rice
- Corn
- Oats
- Quinoa
Vegetables
- Sweet potato
- Beans
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Green beans
- Cucumbers
- Asparagus
- Potatoes
Simple carbs
Simple carbohydrates are found naturally in foods such as fruits, milk, and milk products. They are also found in processed and refined sugars such as sweets, table sugar, syrups, and soft drinks.
- Fruits
- Fruit juice
- All baked goods made with white flour
- Most packaged cereals
- Honey
- Milk
- Yoghurt
- Jam
To learn more about the services we offer at ABS, please click here.
ABS has three gyms across the North West. For more information on each, click below.
