Protein diets often form the focus of post workout meals.

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times: “Make sure to get your protein in after you train!” While that advice isn’t wrong, it’s only half the story. In reality, your body needs a balance of protein and carbs after a workout, especially if you want to recover properly, restore energy, and support your overall fitness goals.

Let’s break it down and show you how REEF’s full range of High Protein and High Fiber products can support your recovery with food that’s smart, satisfying, and seriously tasty.

🏋️‍♀️ What Happens to Your Body During a Workout?

When you train, your body burns through stored glycogen (a form of carbohydrate) for energy. The more intense the session, the more you deplete these stores. You also create micro-tears in your muscles, which need protein to repair and grow stronger.

Most people remember the protein part but forget that restoring glycogen with quality carbohydrates is just as essential. Without it, you might feel sluggish, sore, or find it hard to recover before your next workout.

❌ The Myth: “Only Protein Matters Post-Workout”

It’s easy to fall into the protein-only trap especially with the rise of protein powders, bars, and shakes. But focusing only on protein is like refilling half your tank and expecting to go full speed.

Carbs are your body’s preferred energy source. They also help protein do its job better by spiking insulin just enough to drive nutrients into your cells. For optimal recovery, you need both.

✅ The Reality: Balance is Best

The best post-workout meals combine a protein diet + complex carbohydrates. This helps to:

Rebuild muscle tissue
Refill energy stores
Reduce soreness
Boost recovery and performance

REEF makes that easy, thanks to a wide variety of wholesome, healthy, vegan products built for real recovery.

🍞 REEF High Protein & High Fiber Breads

Let’s start with the classics. REEF’s High Protein and High Fiber breads are perfect for balanced meals and snacks:

High Protein Bread – Rich in plant-based protein to support muscle repair
High Fiber Bread – Loaded with whole grains and fiber to keep you full and energized

Pair with lean protein or healthy spreads for a quick, satisfying refuel.

🍝 REEF High Fiber Pasta: Your Recovery Bowl, Upgraded

Carbs don’t have to be “bad.” In fact, REEF’s High Fiber Pasta offers complex carbs that digest slowly, helping you refuel without the crash.

Post-workout idea? Toss REEF High Fiber Spaghetti, Penne, or Fusilli with:

Grilled chicken or salmon
Olive oil and roasted veggies
A sprinkle of seeds or parmesan

You’ll get long-lasting energy, fiber for digestion, and the satisfaction of a real, wholesome meal.

🥨 REEF Crackers & Breadsticks: Snacks, but Healthy

Don’t underestimate the power of a healthy snack. REEF’s High Protein Crackers and Breadsticks are ideal for on-the-go recovery, whether you’re heading to a meeting or stuck in traffic after a workout.

REEF High Protein Crackers – Crisp, protein-packed, and perfect with hummus or Greek yogurt dip
REEF High Fiber Crackers – Ideal with cottage cheese or nut butter for a carb + fiber + protein combo
REEF Mini Breadsticks – Available in High Protein, High Fiber, Oats, Barley, and Flax & Chia Seed variants — all made with natural ingredients for real nourishment

Snack smart, stay full, and give your body what it needs to bounce back.

For inspiration on quick, easy recipes using REEF healthy products, check out our REEF Recipes playlist!

🔁 Protein diets aren’t the only way to refuel

Post-workout meals aren’t just about recovery, they’re about getting stronger, feeling better, and showing up with more energy next time. When you fuel your body with the right nutrients in the right balance, you make every workout count.

So next time you train, don’t just reach for protein. Think fiber-rich carbs. Think natural ingredients. Think full recovery.

Think REEF.