Obviously, we all want to optimize the benefits we get when we work out. It doesn’t matter if we’re working out to lose weight, build bigger muscles, get better at particular sports, or just to maintain or improve our general health. We want to run faster, lift bigger weights, and train for a longer time.
But to do that, you have to make sure that your body is sufficiently fueled for the hard task ahead. What you need are the right snacks you can munch on maybe 30 to 60 minutes before your workout, so you can fuel your body, fight off your hunger, stave off fatigue, and maybe even help with post-workout recovery.
So, what should you eat before working out? Here are some snacks (or breakfasts, for early-morning workouts) that offer just the right balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruits make for a great snack or breakfast right before your workout. For one, there’s no complicated cooking process. You just take some dried pineapples, figs, apricots, or berries half an hour before your workout. These dried fruits offer easily digestible simple carbohydrates that your body can use for energy.
Fruit And Greek Yogurt
This is one way to enhance the carbs from the fruits, and that’s with the Greek yogurt’s protein. Greek yogurt has almost twice as much protein as regular yogurt, so it’s a better choice. You’re getting quick energy from the fruit carbs, while the protein helps with your muscles.
Bananas
This is another convenient breakfast option when you’re planning an early morning workout, and it works as a snack too. There’s no time-consuming cooking process to go through. Bananas have plenty of carbohydrates, and in fact, the carbs account for 90% of the calories found in a banana. The carbs fuel your body and brain, and gets you readier for your workout.
Also, bananas are famous as sources of potassium, which help with muscle and nerve function.
Whole Grain Bread
Try eve just a slice of whole grain bread with your morning coffee or your energy drink later in the day. It’s also a terrific source of carbs. You can enhance that with added protein by adding some hardboiled eggs, or even some low fat-turkey. You can make a sandwich out of these components.
Oats
This has become a popular breakfast option for many health-conscious folks, because oats release their carbs gradually. That means you maintain a steady level of energy while you work out, as you get more carbs as time passes by. That means a lot for your endurance, and you won’t get tired too quickly.
In addition, oats also contain plenty of vitamin B that makes it easier to convert the carbs into energy.
Which type of oats should you go for? Try Irish oats, as they’re the least processed type. These Irish oats come with a lower glycemic load than instant oats.
Try these snacks before you work out at the nearest Bodyplex gym next time, and you might just perform better as a result!