Nutrition for Better Recovery



                                                                                                                          * ALWAYS SEEK PROFESSION/MEDICAL HELP BEFORE STARTING OR CHANGING ANY EXERCISE REGIME. 



The more you train the more important it is to recover quickly. But this is also true for those who work out just once or twice a week. Whether its a long steady ride or a hard short training session, you're muscle fibers are going to take a battering. when ever you do something different (gardening, diy, a longer or faster ride) you will break more fibers (and be more sore the next few days too).

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The Anatomy

Muscle are made of two types of protein, myosin and actin, these proteins literally pull on each to get closer and this causes contractions. These are microscopic and there are millions upon millions of them doing this at the same time. When you work hard (or do something different) some of these fibers are damaged and need repair.



The process is called proteinsynthesis and it happens everyday whether you train or not.  New fibers are created to replace old damaged one, the debris is then removed and you can start training again. If your body does not have protein then it can not itself.

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What does your body need after a hard ride?

In simple terms protein! But your body will also be low on carbs (assuming it wasn't a leisure ride), so its essential to throw some of them in too. 



The aim of recovery fuel/food is to;

1) Get protein into the body

2) Replenish carbohydrate stores

3) Replace any vitamins and minerals used up during exercise (your salts are the main minerals that need replacing, as you lose them when you sweat

 



1) Sources Of Protein

Meat Meat Meat, its the best source of protein. You can also get protein shakes designed for recovery. Although i still prefer the old fashion cooking if you are in a rush or do not feel hungry after they're a good way to get protein (and carbs) into you.

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2/3) Sources Of Carbs & Minerals

Although pasta, rice and potatoes are great for replenishing carbohydrate stores, they aren't exactly high in vitamins and minerals. A better meal replacement would be a mix of vegetables along side your meat.

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Vegtarian / Vegan?

What if your a vegetarian or vegan. Well it gets very hard to get your protein intake. however there are chicken style pieces you can buy from your local supermarket which are high in protein. again add veg to increase carb, vitamins and minerals consumed