Have you ever paid attention to your pre workout meal? Some people are comfortable in not eating before exercising. However, it is important that you eat something at least an hour or two before the workout. Aside from the food, you will also need to pay attention to your fluid intake. If it is possible for you to drink at least 20oz of water, then do it! The body loses a lot of water when you perspire and plenty of water can also aid in flushing out the toxins.
The pre workout meal should ideally contain slow-burning carbohydrates such as cereals, pasta, rice, whole-grain bread, veggies, and fruits. These foods contain complex carbohydrates which take longer to digest and convert into glucose. By consuming these foods, you can be sure that the blood sugar will remain consistent. It would be a good idea to eat candy before exercising because this can cause a drop in the sugar level.
If you consume food that contains around 300 calories, it can be digested in an hour or two. This is the main reason why you should eat earlier than your scheduled workout. Aside from the ones already mentioned, you can also eat a bar of chocolate. A chocolate bar will usually contain fat, protein, carbohydrates, and calories. If you don’t like chocolates, you can consume energy gels. The gel packets contain carbs, the same amount found in ½ of a bagel. The power gel contains carbohydrates and calories needed by the body before the workout.
Bananas are a great source of carbs and it is easy to digest. It also contains potassium that is vital for muscle and nerve functions. Other substitutes include grapes, pineapples, peaches, and apples. Just in case you don’t have fruits, you can consume yogurt. This is rich in magnesium and it will give you the needed energy to start the workout. Plain yogurt will provide fat, protein, carbs, and calories. Get the 8oz yogurt for a better energy kick.
You can find lots of energy bars in the market. Just get the quality ones to get the needed protein. If you are overly concerned of the glycemic index, you can eat oatmeal. The oats contain a lot of fiber and it can supply the bloodstream with just the right carbs while you’re exercising. The oatmeal also contains B vitamins that can lower stress while converting the carbohydrates into energy.
Do you love to eat lentils? If you do, you will be surprised to know that is contains protein, carbs, copper, calcium, zinc, potassium, magnesium, iron, fiber, and B vitamins. Boil the lentils and if you eat a cup of it, you will get fat, protein, carbs, and calories. Snack time will not be complete if you don’t eat almonds. The almonds contain essential fatty acids just like other nuts. Twelve pieces of the almonds can make you full since it contains carbs, protein, and calories. Start eating the right kinds of foods. Determine the pre workout meal that will work for you and meet your budget.