One of the most common questions that assail gym-goers is whether to eat before a workout. Many people work out on an empty stomach but this is a very bad idea. Say you work out in the morning on an empty stomach. That means that your body has been without sustenance for almost eight hours which means that your metabolism will be at its lowest. This makes it harder for your body to lose weight. This is why it’s vital to eat something early in the morning. Study after study has shown that people who skip breakfast are likelier to be obese whilst those who eat breakfast are actually likelier to lose weight. (Read: Healthy breakfast ideas) Similarly, even if you work out in the afternoon/evening you need to provide your body with the fuel to power your workout.
Kick start your metabolism
Kris Gethin, the editor-at-large of Bodybuilding.com writes in his book The Bodybuilding.com Guide to Your Best Body: ‘I know a point of confusion for many people is whether or not to eat before doing cardio first thing in the morning. What many of the experts who develop these programs fail to point out is that the body is extremely catabolic after an eight-hour fast and its metabolism is at its slowest point, which furthers fat loss and increases muscle wastage. The sooner you eat upon rising, the faster your metabolism will speed up to digest breakfast; you will have effectively jump-started your body’s fat-burning properties for the entire day. Food has a thermogenic (heat producing) effect, which raises the body’s core temperature. Your first cardiovascular session of the day will be more efficient and productive if you eat beforehand because your body’s fat-assimilating properties work much faster when they are under the influence of a thermogenic.’
Now that we’ve established the importance of eating before working out, what should you eat before your workout session?
Mitalee Doshi, the founder of Oomph Nutrition wrote for our site: ‘Your pre-workout meal is the meal that plays the largest role in supplying your body with everything it will need to ensure optimal performance during your workout.’
Your pre-workout meal should have both carbohydrates and proteins. While carbs are essential as energy for your workout, proteins help build and maintain muscles. Doshi adds: ‘Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as wholegrain pasta, roti, oats, fruits, vegetables and bread are the best sources of energy that can help you start your workout well, and keep at it without experiencing dizziness.’ For proteins she recommends those that digest slowly like paneer, chicken, fish or a casein supplement. You should ideally have your pre-workout meal 45 minutes before your workout. (Read: What to eat before and after your workout)
So don’t skip your pre-workout meal because it’s the necessary fuel that will allow you get the maximum benefits from your workout regime.
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