Not Feeling Hungry After a Workout? Here’s Why

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After an intense workout, for many, the last thing on their mind is eating. Having a decreased appetite after exercising is common and most workouts can lead to suppressed hunger after physical activity. So, why does it happen and should you eat post-workout?

The Science Behind It

High body temperatures and hormones are responsible for appetite suppression after working out. Physical activity increases body temperature and to avoid overheating, the body uses its energy on cooling, which occupies the receptors that signal hunger. Some high-impact sports cause a lot of stomach movement which can make you feel nauseous and have a decreased desire to eat. Also, during exercise, blood volume and flow gets diverted from the gut to bring more oxygen to the muscles, which slows digestion, making you feel full.

Why You Should Eat Post-Workout

Even if you’re not hungry, it’s important to eat after an intense workout as your muscles need proper nutrition as insufficient energy intake after training can impair muscle protein synthesis, leading to fatigue and less ability for training in the future. So the bottom line is to eat even if you’re not hungry!