Children need to be active for a number of reasons. Physical activity helps control weight, increase life expectancy, and building strong and healthy bones!
It is also important for children to get lots of fluids and nutrients immediately after a game or a workout to replace what they have lost during their exercise. Studies show that an hour after a workout is one of the best opportunities to replace nutrients. The meal or snack that children eat after their workout is most important for replenishing their energy sources.
I cannot stress enough how important it is for young children to replenish their nutrient reserves after physical activity. Work from American Bone Health shows that young girls who do not take in enough calories and nutrients after their workout may suffer from Athletic Energy Deficit (AED) and if AED goes unnoticed and untreated, it can lead to low bone density, stress fractures, future reproductive issues, and quite possibly the early onset of osteoporosis.
Eat right after a workout to prevent energy imbalances that can lead to AED. Choose healthy and nutritious post-workout snacks. My personal favorites are mango smoothies and yogurt with granola!
What is your favorite post-workout snack?
Happy exercising and snacking!
