It wasn’t too long ago that protein shakes could only be found in the …

Can I replace protein shakes with canned tuna?


It wasn’t too long ago that protein shakes could only be found in the world of bodybuilding.
Now, everyone from casual gym-goers to professional athletes are including them in their routine.
But, for some, shakes can be too overly processed, even a little sickly.
Taking tuna straight after a workout may never have crossed your mind before, and you’re not going to find banana-flavoured or chocolate peanut butter-flavoured fish anytime soon.
However, a tin of tuna could actually be the missing ingredient to enhancing your post-workout nutrition.
Canned Tuna vs Protein Shakes – which to choose?
|
Canned tuna in brine (per 100g) |
Protein shake (per serving) |
|
|
Protein content |
24.9g |
20 – 30g |
|
Calories |
109 kcal |
100 – 300 kcal |
|
Fat content |
Low (especially when packed in water) |
Varies (can be low or high) |
|
Omega-3s (healthy fats) |
High |
Usually absent |
|
Carbs |
Zero |
Some have added carbs |
|
Additives |
Minimal (if natural) |
May contain artificial sweeteners or fillers |
|
Flavours |
John West offers a wide variety (sweet chilli, tangy jalapeño, sun dried tomato) |
Wide variety (chocolate, banana, strawberry etc) |
|
Convenience |
Instant (just open the tin) |
Instant (just mix with liquid) |
Why take tuna after a workout?
- High protein content. After a workout, your muscles begin to repair and rebuild the small tears that happen during exercise. This recovery phase, which is sped up by eating protein, is what makes them stronger and helps them grow. Tuna is a perfect post-workout option because it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle recovery.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for heart health and supporting brain development. have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery. Tuna is an excellent source of omega-3s, especially when compared with protein shakes that, unless fortified, don’t contain any.
- Low in calories. When it comes to lean protein, you don’t get much leaner than tuna. So, if you’re wanting to build lean muscle while managing your weight, post-workout tuna is a fantastic option.
- Naturally nutrient-dense. Tuna may be low in calories, but it containsit’s loaded with vitamins and minerals like vitamins D and B12, along with selenium and , magnesium and potassium, all working together to give your body the essential nutrients it needs for muscle recovery.
- Quick and easy. The last thing anyone wants to do after a hard workout is go home and cook a plain chicken breast with rice. John West On-The-Go Tuna salads can be thrown in a gym bag and opened within seconds of completing that last rep.
Tuna post-workout meal inspiration
Tuna burritos. Ready in 15 minutes, can be eaten hot or cold, and are packed full of protein. These bite-size burritos are a perfect post-workout snack that will have you ready and raring to go for the rest of the day.
No-mayo tuna pasta salad. There are few things more refreshing and revitalising after a hard session at the gym than a mouth-watering pasta salad. This no-mayo, no-fuss option has the added benefit of protein-packed tuna, giving you the perfect blend of carbs and lean protein to fuel your recovery.
Tuna and avocado toasts. Minimal prep, maximum taste. These tasty toasts boast muscle building protein (tuna), heart-healthy fats (avocado), and energy-boosting whole grain bread – everything you need to refuel and recover.
Shaking up your post-workout routine
We get it. Protein shakes are quick, convenient, and you’ve got a mountain of flavours to choose from.
But hear us out. John West tinned tuna is just as quick, and just as convenient.
Oh, and we have plenty of delicious flavours, too, if you’re wanting to give your taste buds a post-workout workout. Why not start out by trying our On The Go Asian Chilli & Garlic Infused Tuna Salad or our On The Go Indian Biryani Curry Tuna Rice Pot – you can thank us later.

















