6 Foods That Are Great Pre-Workout Snacks

By Mark Robinson


Two prerequisites of a good workout are a steady stomach and availability of ample energy to the body. However it has been observed that people have a tendency to skip meals before a workout for either lack of time or lack of knowledge. After reading this article you will be left with no more doubts about what to eat before your workout. The tummy friendly recipes enumerated below are ideally protein laden and easy to prepare.

1. Wheat bagel with jam:

Whole wheat bagel with jam contains both, simple and complex carbohydrates and hence goes easy on digestive system. Simple carbohydrates burn faster than complex ones and a combination of both is ideal to fuel a workout right from start to finish.

2. Whey protein shake with additional carbs:

A good way to make use of protein and as well stay energized with carbohydrates can be protein shake. It is usually a straightforward on-the-go snack. It really is advised to blend a shake with juice and water and get away from milk as it may cause mucous. Thereafter you can include a banana or oats to load it with carbohydrates.

3. Natural Oatmeal(not sweetened):

Oatmeal is one of the best choices for working out in the morning when you don't have time to get up and eat something 1-2 hours before. It's quick and easy to prepare and works really well. Adding fruit to this bowl can help your body utilize these calories quickly and give you more energy.

4. Greek yogurt:

This type of yogurt contains less sugar when compared to others plus more protein and carbohydrates. It goes down easy and is also ideal before intense workouts that induce tummy trouble after having a heavy meal. You can throw in honey or fruit for some more kick.

5. Brown rice with chicken:

For those who plan to work out after lunch or dinner, brown rice is ideal with tofu or chicken. Brown rice is a better source of complex carbohydrates than white rice. This bland meal sits well and gives a good amount of protein and carbohydrates.

6. Legumes:

Beans and lentils are again a great resource of protein and carbohydrates, and are fantastic for slow releasing energy levels. It is therefore perfect for workouts beginning after 1-2 hours of your meal. It's advised never to overeat as legumes might induce flatulence due to gas inducing natural sugars called oligosaccharides and you could begin getting noticed by others for the wrong reasons!

Timing of the meal is of great significance. The foods mentioned here are best to be had before your workout but even they can trouble you mid workout if not allowed to digest properly. It is best to have a meal at least 45 minutes before you begin workout and if it is a heavy meal, workout shall commence even later. While it is true that certain foods settle well and get into the bloodstream fast, you might feel sluggish when working out on a full stomach. It can even cause cramps as blood is pulled away from the stomach while exercising.

In the event the time doesn't allow the forty-five minutes before starting a workout, it is best to have small snack rather than exercising empty stomach.




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