Top Food for Muscle Recovery, Say Dietitians

Eating a snack with carbs and protein within an hour after exercise supports muscle recovery, with top foods including chicken, fish, sweet potatoes, quinoa, salmon, chocolate milk, cottage cheese, eggs, bananas, spinach, and berries. Avoid alcohol, salty, sugary, ultra-processed, and spicy foods post-workout. Additional recovery tips include stretching, hydration, sleep, active recovery, massage, and ice baths.