When I first started running, I would often skip a post-workout snack. Sometimes, it was because I was in a rush, but mostly, it was because I thought eating straight after a workout would ruin all my hard work. Now, I know how wrong I was. However, it seems I’m not the only one who has felt this way. You may like “Many beginners under-eat after workouts because they’re worried about ‘undoing’ their effort,” explains Cara Shaw, a women’s health nutritional therapist. “In reality, under-fuelling can increase cravings later in the day, disrupt hormones (especially in women), and slow recovery.” What I quickly learned is that after exercise, refueling is essential. “It’s not about protein shakes and perfection,” explains Shaw. “It’s about supporting your body so you feel energised rather than exhausted.” There are four main reasons why refuelling post-workout is important, according to Shaw: Start your week with achievable workout ideas, health tips and wellbeing advice in your inbox. Replenishing carbohydrates to restore energy. Providing protein to support muscle repair. Rehydrating, especially if you’ve …