If you are looking to get the most out of your workout, then it is important to eat the right kinds of food beforehand. Although you may not be willing to pack in calories before the session, there are a number of foods you can eat to fuel your workout. Apart from helping you maximize your efforts, these foods can also prevent low blood sugar, fatigue and lightheadedness during the workout. Here is a list of foods you must consider eating before working out.
Bananas
Bananas contain fast acting carbohydrates which can actually provide useable energy during a workout session. Bananas also contain potassium which can help in the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. Bananas are the perfect pre-workout snack for all those who workout first thing in the morning. Those who tend to skip breakfast before their workout can benefit greatly by having a banana at least 30 minutes prior to working out.
Chickpeas
Another easy pre-workout snack is chickpeas. Chickpeas contain carbs, fiber and protein that are essential for fuelling your workout. Before the session, eat at least ¼ cup of chickpeas to give you 9 grams of fiber, 30 grams of carbohydrates and 10 grams of protein.
Dried Fruits
If you have just a few minutes left before your workout, you can simply rely on dried fruits for the energy. Dried fruits are extremely light and they provide instant energy without making you feel heavy or full. Some of the options that you can consider before your workout include dried apricots, pineapple and dried berries. A quarter cup of dried fruit is recommended.
Oats
Another wonderful pre-workout food is oats. Oats contains loads of fiber which aids in the steady release of carbs in the bloodstream. This means that your energy levels are consistent when you workout. Oats are also rich in B Vitamins and these helps covert carbs into energy. At least one cup of cooked oats before working out is recommended.
Wholegrain Bread
Wholegrain bread contains good amounts of carbohydrates and you can top if off with honey or jam for their added benefits. You can even include one or two hard boiled eggs for more protein. Grabbing one piece of bread before hitting the gym can provide you the energy you need to maximize your efforts during your workout session.
Fruit Smoothies
Fruit smoothies, depending on what fruits are used to make it may contain high amounts of protein and carbohydrates. Fruit smoothies are easy to digest as well. When blended together, the carbs break down quickly to fuel the workout and the protein is used to prevent muscle damage. For your workout each morning, try blending ½ cup fruit with 1 cup fruit juice and ½ cup plain yogurt together.
Greek Yogurt
Another good source of protein for preventing muscle damage during workout is Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt contains twice the amount of protein that can be found in normal yogurt. It is easy on the stomach and can provide energy boost for your workout.
Besides knowing what to eat before working out, it is also important to know what to eat after a work out.
