Most Americans who are exposed to any type of media have the idea that “less is better” – especially when it comes to food. That idea is drilled in our brains: eating fewer calories equals losing more pounds. For any person who has started a new training program, whether it involves weights, running or a combination of both, you know that less is not always better.

Whether you are just starting to work out or feeling comfortable with your current workout regimen, there are a number of steps you can take to adapt your food consumption, in a positive way, to align with your fitness goals.

Why Do I Feel So Hungry After An Intense Workout?

When I first started training with Mark, I asked myself the same question. Even after the first few weeks I noticed changes, more specifically to my appetite. Suddenly, I was much hungrier and I wanted to eat more often. This is completely normal. In fact, you want to listen to what your body is telling you.

Burn More Calories After Your Workout With Weightlifting

Weightlifting is a great activity that will help your endurance and your strength. Cardio alone is not likely to burn as much fat as with weightlifting or a combination of cardio and weightlifting.

After a day of heavy lifting, your body will keep burning calories for the next 24 hours. Burning more calories means your body will need replenishment. The key point here is to choose your food wisely – and recognize that it’s OK and normal for you to feel hungrier than you did before you started your weightlifting or fitness plan.

Choosing The Right Foods

Adding in more fats to your diet will help with your appetite. Choose healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and even sometimes cheese and butter. It’s also important to eat well-rounded meals and snacks. Choose a good protein, carbohydrate and fat for every meal. For snacks, consider a combination, like a healthy carb and a healthy fat.

One thing not to let yourself do is to starve and deny your body the calories it needs to give you fuel and energy. This will only hurt your metabolism.