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We all know the basics of working out efficiently. Maintain a healthy diet and stick to a regular workout regime.
As important as our workout regime is, we tend to overlook the dieting aspect.
Sure, in order to lose body fat and weight, we need to cut back on calories but it does not mean that we have to compromise on the quality of nutrients our body needs.
More so, as much as we want to cut back on our calorie intake, a pre-workout snack is something that you should not overlook.
A pre-workout snack keeps your blood sugar at a stable level and prevents light-headedness and fatigue during your workout.
Think of your pre-workout snack as fuel for your body which will keep your body running throughout the workout.
Here we have rounded up the perfect, pre-workout snacks to fuel your body.
1. Bananas: Nature’s Power Bar
Who doesn’t love bananas? They are the perfect snack-on-the-go for everyone. They are loaded with carbohydrates which serve as a source of energy, before and during the workout.
Furthermore, bananas are rich in potassium. This potassium is important as it aids in nerve and muscle function.
Our bodies are not capable of storing potassium for very long so having a banana just before your workout will help keep the nutrient levels high, when you need it the most.
The best way to have a banana is to slice it up and eat it with ½ a cup of Greek yogurt, at least 30 minutes before you hit the gym. Your body will definitely thank you for the carbs and proteins.
2. Oats
Oats may not be your favorite but hey we are looking for snacks to fuel our body, not cater to our palate.
Oats are dense nutrients and are full of fiber, meaning that they gradually release carbohydrates in your blood stream. This gradual release of carbohydrates is important in maintaining constant and consistent energy levels during your workout.
Oats are also rich in Vitamin B. Keep in mind that although oats are rich in fiber, they do not cause gas.
You can combine your oats with nuts and fruits to make your pre-workout snack more palatable.
3. Whole-grain Bread
Bread is always considered as your enemy when you are working out and trying to lose weight. However, this is not the case for whole-grain bread.
We all know that carbs are the best source of energy for our body and whole-grain bread is rich in healthy carbs. Make sure you have some whole-grain bread at least 45 minutes prior to your workout.
The best thing about having whole-grain bread is that you can have it in many ways. You can top it off with jam, honey or all-natural peanut/ almond butter.
If you want to add a dash of protein, top it with a few slices of turkey or a hard-boiled egg and you are good to go.
4. Go Fruity!
Generally, people tend to avoid fruits before a workout, opting for high-protein substitutes. But did you know that proteins don’t break down as quickly as carbohydrates?
The carbs that are found in fruits provide with energy during the early part of your workout.
Combining fruits with yogurt provide you with an additional source of proteins.
These proteins break down slowly and provide energy during the latter part of your workout.
5. Apple Slices and Peanut Butter
This is an easy, convenient and an all-star pick for gym-goers. This is a perfect combination of proteins and carbohydrates.
As mentioned earlier, this combination provides energy throughout your workout.
This combination of apple and peanut butter is perfect for people who love doing yoga and Pilates and do not need to eat a lot before a workout.
6. Go Blue
Another way to fuel your body before a workout, without feeling as if you have eaten a lot, is to have a handful of blueberries with unsalted pistachios.
Pistachios are rich in carbs and healthy fats. Don’t be fooled by the small size of this mighty nut.
It is an efficient pre-workout fuel for your body and combining it with a handful of blueberries will do wonders for your workout.
Blueberries are rich in anti-oxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties which help in quick recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage.
7. Smoothies
Fruit smoothies are one of the best ways to start off your workout. They are not only a good source of carbohydrates but they also ensure that you start your workout, fully hydrated.
However, there is a catch. When you are making a smoothie, steer clear of adding any sugar or additives as this will defy the purpose of having a smoothie.
Use all-natural Greek yogurt and fresh fruits, instead of tinned or canned fruits.
A Pre-Workout Snack is Just as Important for Your Body as a Post-Workout Snack. Don’t Overlook This and Give Your Workouts an Energy Boost They Need!