Whether you are exercising for weight loss, body building or weight training it is crucial that you pay attention to the food you eat and also to your eating habits. While your exercise routine stretches and works your muscles, it is important that your body has the energy to sustain the exercise effectively. Most people tend to think that they should exercise on an empty stomach, this isn’t necessarily true. What experts do say is that you shouldn’t exercise soon after a heavy meal as the stomach and body muscles are both vying for energy to fulfill their processes.
What you choose to eat and when you eat it can dramatically affect your workout. You may find that a small change in your eating habits can help in weight loss or even weight training.
Use of cardio gym equipment is central to most workout routines. You may be exercising on cardio gym equipment like a stationary bike or a treadmill at home or in the gym, or exercising for body building, the needs of your body are essentially the same. Here is what your daily diet should include:
Carbohydrates: This is what fuels your body and, unlike what some diets suggest,they should be an integral part of your meals. Good sources of carbohydrates include cereals, pasta, rice vegetables and fruits.
Proteins: Proteins are important for your body as they help build and repair muscles, and are vital for growth. Good sources of proteins include dairy products, meats and nuts.
Fats: If you are working out on cardio gym equipment or doing pilates or yoga for weight loss you may wonder why fats need to be included in your diet. Fats provide the body energy and small amounts need to be taken regularly. Opt for unsaturated fats in nuts, fatty fish and vegetable oils.
Foods to Avoid Just Before a Workout
- Avoid foods that could cause gas and indigestion such as beans, bran cereals and fruits. If you are weight training and have an intensive workout planned out then don’t eat your fruits close to your workout time. The fructose in fruits tends to cause diarrhea if you have take on a strenuous workout soon after eating them.
- Opt for a light snack or meal before a workout and avoid any foods that are fatty. They tend to take more time to digest and sit in your stomach for much longer. This makes you feel heavy and uncomfortable while working out.
Tips on Eating and Drinking Before, During and After a Workout
- Do not skip meals and ensure that you eat a light meal at least two to three hours before working out.
- If you think your blood sugar is low then eat something like a banana or a cup of yogurt some time before you workout.
- Do ensure you eat proteins and carbohydrates in two to three hours after a workout. This ensures that your body is replenished well.
- Drink adequate water before, during and after a workout. If you are body building or weight training and have a strenuous workout program, then sip often on a sports drink that maintains the electrolyte balance in your body.