3 Pre-Workout Snacks to Help You Power Through
by Catherine Santino
If you've been visiting the gym for a while now, you've probably realized that fitness is as much about eating the right foods as it is performing the right exercises. The key to your well-being is finding a healthy balance between the two — and giving your body the food it wants when it needs it!
Replenishing your body after a workout is a necessary step, and it's equally important to know about great pre-workout snacks you can eat before the gym. For instance, enjoying a healthy snack prior to a workout can help keep your energy up, prevent dizziness or lightheadedness, and generally give you the best chance for a successful workout.
Considerations for Your Pre-Workout Snack
We all want to get the most out of our time at the gym, so we should pay attention to what we're eating! It's best to avoid anything too heavy, sugary, or carbonated, as these foods tend to lack nutrients and could even make you feel sick during your routine. To further prevent nausea while working out, it's also a good idea to wait at least 1-2 hours after eating before exercising.
The best pre-workout snacks combine complex carbohydrates and protein. Carbohydrate-based options that are high in fiber and nutrients can help sustain energy throughout a workout, while protein promotes muscle growth and recovery.
Here are three great pre-workout snacks to keep you fueled up and motivated at the gym.
1. Peanut Butter & Banana Toast
Try topping a piece of whole-grain toast with peanut (or almond) butter and sliced bananas for a deliciously crunchy and satisfying pre-gym snack. The carbs from the bread, potassium from the bananas, and protein from the nut butter can give you tons of energy to tackle the treadmill!
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
To satisfy your sweet tooth — but maintain a healthy diet — you can combine layers of low-fat Greek yogurt, granola, nuts, and berries (or any other fruit of your choice) for asweet, energy-filled treat. Greek yogurt is often preferred over regular yogurt due to its high levels of protein and amino acids, which can be beneficial to muscle recovery and overall energy. Also, try to find granola with lower sugar content as well as unroasted, unsalted nuts to ensure all the ingredients are healthful.
3. Sweet Potato & Egg Scramble
If you're craving something a bit more substantial, a simple egg scramble is the way to go! Simply whip up some scrambled eggs and mix in roasted sweet potato, green onion, and salt and pepper for incredible flavor and a nutrition boost.
Eggs are a great source of protein that can keep you full throughout the day. Meanwhile, sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients — particularly vitamins A and C, which are helpful immune-boosters during cold and flu season. Sweet potato is also a high-fiber starch, which means it won't spike your blood sugar levels and lead to a crash. Instead, you'll be energized through your gym session (and well after).
Next time you're planning a gym visit, consider whipping up one of these great pre-workout snacks to fuel your sweat session! As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.