Men's Life Today: Expert Q+A

I’m trying to stay in shape by participating in cardio activities (running and cycling). The problem is, afterward, not only do I want to eat more, I want to eat stuff that’s bad for me (usually food filled with fat or sugar). This seems counterproductive. How can I avoid this syndrome?

By Nicci Micco For Men's Life Today

Unfortunately, when it comes to craving fat and bad carbs, there’s no research showing that humans crave any foods in particular (unless you’re pregnant -- which you aren’t). It’s most likely that you just happen to have a powerful sweet (or fat) tooth.

Still, you do need to eat some good carbs, like nuts or whole grains, after a workout to refill stores of glycogen -- the fuel stored in your muscles that powers your workout. You also need some protein, which your body uses to repair muscles after strenuous exercise. Research shows that protein also helps restock your glycogen. (For best results, you should eat within a half-hour to an hour after working out.)

That said, a great snack that fits the bill is a turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread with a slice of low-fat cheese.

Meanwhile, fruit is a great source of carbohydrates and may help to satisfy your sweet tooth naturally. Have it with some creamy yogurt to get some protein.

Finally, if you’re craving fatty foods, try half a whole-grain bagel with some peanut butter. The nutty spread provides some protein and heart-healthy fats that won’t undo all the hard cardio work you just did.