The chances are that you don't need anyone to tell you how tough losing weight can be - particularly when you're trying to balance work and fitness at the same time. Even with your calf compression sleeves ready to support muscle recovery after a tough workout, you're still going to need a nutritional boost to improve your performance and ensure you're taking the right steps towards a fitter, healthier body.

Fortunately, there are a few fantastic ingredients on the market today that you can add to your post-workout fare if you want to banish muscle pains faster, and even speed up the rate at which you drop those unwanted pounds. If you're ready to ramp up your results, try a few of these calorie-burning combinations.

1.    Whole Wheat and Protein

During workouts and fitness classes, your body burns carbohydrates to give you the fuel you need to keep moving. Eating something filled with whole-wheat and veggies will help to replenish your missing stores while managing your blood sugar levels at the same time. You'll feel re-energized, and be less likely to eat more later on.

Mixing the carbs that you eat with something that's lean and protein-rich like turkey or chicken breast may also help you to recover more quickly, as protein helps your body to build muscle and repair itself.

2.    Fruit and Nuts

Unfortunately, you shouldn't use this combo as an excuse to consume your favorite bar of chocolate, but if you need some tips for what to eat after workouts, fruit and nuts are a good place to start. Try a handful of almonds and an orange to serve up a dose of healthy fats and protein, while taking the edge off your hunger. Studies have found that almonds are capable of curbing appetites, so you don't undo your time at the gym with a naughty midnight snack.

At the same time, oranges give plenty of immune-system-boosting vitamin C, and hydration bundled into a neat, and portable package. Since your body is ready to absorb vitamins and minerals following exercise, it's the best time to stock up on nutrients.

3.    Fish and Salad

If you want an indulgent way to recuperate after a workout, try salmon mixed with some veggies and olive oil. Salmon is rich in omega-3, which helps to limit some of the inflammation that naturally occurs in muscles after a tough workout. What's more, research suggests that this fat helps to boost calorie burning.

Turn your meal into an easy salad by adding some chopped up grapes and celery for fiber and carbs, with a few glugs of olive oil for plenty of healthy fats.

4.    Beans and Eggs

Finally, if you found yourself working up a mid-morning sweat and want to know what to eat after workouts for better weight loss, then you should always reward yourself with a high-quality breakfast meal. Eggs, black beans, and bell peppers all mixed together give you a great amount of vitamin C and fiber-rich carbs - perfect for starting the day.

What's more, the protein-packed eggs will help to prevent you from overeating for the rest of the day, and should put a damper on any urges for excess calories you might get around lunch and dinner time.