I usually work out before or after work at the gym. I take a shower after so sometimes I'm not out of the locker room until 45min later. Sometimes I have some almonds when I'm driving to work or home after, but is it really helping at that point? Does it really help that much to eat then or can I wait until my next meal?

I've read, not sure where at the moment, that it's more 30-60mins after a workout that is crucial. Also we should not to consume fat, because it is readily absorbed too along with the other nutrients. If you are eating nuts (aka fats) on the way home why not get a good protein powder and just shake it with water or juice (because this is also the best time to have a simple carb) on the way home... Then later have your regular scheduled meal... When I do this I notice better results. I used to be afraid to not be hungry for my regular meal if I had this protein after my workout but as I discovered I'm always ravenous for my meal because all the nutrients have been absorbed...

How hard are you working out? I have some workouts where I feel like I MUST EAT right after. I think it's one of those things that probably doesn't matter unless you are stressing your body - if it's just 30 mins of light cardio or something, then you are fine waiting until your next meal.

Yes, I definitely agree, eating immediately after a workout is when you are lifting heavy and need to replenish your muscles...

I believe it's the first hour or two after a workout that are considered the "golden hours" in which your body is best able to absorb the nutrients you are taking in it. I think that's where this whole "eat right after you workout" stuff started.

I do think it also matters how intense you're working out. I usually plan my workouts right before a meal so I can come home and eat right away.

I got told you have a 20 mins window after you have finished your workout where your body has used most of it's fuel and looks for more to top up what you have burnt off whether it be cardio or strength training. If you don't eat your metabolism starts to slow which isn't what you want so if you top up with a shake or something little in the changing room after your work out your metabolism rate stays higher, helps your body recover faster and your body doesn't crave or slow down

I think it depends on a lot of factors... Like how long and how hard are you working out, etc... When I was training at a much higher intensity than I am now, I would start taking in some carbs (in the form of an energy drink or gels) after 1 hour into the workout... Now at my much slower and relaxed pace I go for an hour and a half to two hours with just water and I'm fine... And I find that I'm not usually hungry after a workout, so I don't force it... But of course people that are doing intense weightlifting workouts tend to take their "nutrition" and especially its timing around their workouts much more seriously... But since I only do moderate strength training workouts a few times a week this isn't a concern of mine...