A 5-Minute Guide to Fitness Nutrition

There’s some truth in the saying that you are what you eat. If you want to be a fitness buff, it’s important to follow a healthy diet.

It’s easy to feel overloaded by the nutrition information provided by daily news and the diet industry. That’s especially true when some advice seems to contradict each other, and you’re trying to maximize your workouts as well as your general wellbeing.

Still, it’s worth paying attention because the foods you choose and the way you eat can help make your workouts more effective.

How to Eat Before and After Working Out:

#1 Keep it light before working out.

When you’re preparing to work out, you want to eat enough to give you energy and stabilize your blood sugar. On the other hand, overeating could weigh you down. Many adults prefer to have a small snack before exercising but finish any large meal at least 3 hours in advance.

#2 Consume carbs for pre-workout snacks.

Focus on carbs for your pre-workout snack. They’re easy to digest, so your body stores them in your muscles as glycogen and breaks them down when you’re exerting yourself.

#3 Choose whole foods.

Energy bars and protein powders can be convenient and safe for most adults. However, you can also get the nutrients you need from a wide range of ordinary unprocessed foods.

#4 Drink fluids.

Staying hydrated enhances circulation and prevents fatigue. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends about 3 cups of water before a workout, one cup every 20 minutes while you’re exercising, and three cups afterward.

#5 Refuel your body.

Eating after a workout aids recovery. Have a snack if your next meal is more than 2 hours away. Choose foods high in protein, such as milk or fish.