Slimming down isn’t as simple as piling up on pound – you’ve probably realized this if you’re trying to lose weight. A lot of the weight loss conversation revolves around physical activity and eating less calories, but what we eat before and after exercising often gets overlooked.
When we start our weight loss journey, we’re usually faced with a variety of foods including black coffee, roasted peanuts, mustard oil, seafood, chicken, sprouts, and many more. But knowing what to eat and when is the real game-changer.
Now, let’s narrow our focus to pre-workout nutrition for weight loss. Instead of just giving you a list of foods to eat before exercising, we’ve selected our top six picks and explained why they’re so beneficial.
1. Bananas: This fruit should be your go-to if you’re striving for a healthier lifestyle, especially when weight loss is your end goal. The high potassium and easily digestible carbs found in bananas provide great fuel before a workout. Eating a medium-sized banana before a workout can help maintain your nutrition levels throughout the day. Plus, bananas can help with gastritis and are beneficial for people with bleeding disorders.
2. Nuts: These are rich in essential nutrients, providing a quick energy boost before working out. Almonds, for instance, are filled with good fatty acids (like omega-6 and omega-3) that aid fat loss. However, due to their high calorie content, it’s best to keep your portion sizes small. You can also pair them with fruit if you’re not fully satisfied.
3. Oatmeal: A bowl of oatmeal cooked with a healthy oil is a fantastic pre-workout meal option. Its antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like iron, zinc, and phosphorus make it a great way to kickstart your day without feeling bloated or heavy. If you desire, mix in some fruit for that extra bit of satisfaction.
4. Protein-rich Food: Protein is an integral part of our diet, and it’s great as a pre-workout option too. Consuming protein before a workout, alongside some carbs, helps in increasing muscle protein synthesis. Options like boiled eggs (without the yolk), peanut butter toast, or protein bars are excellent choices.
5. Yogurt: Although not everyone’s favorite pre-workout meal, yogurt provides excellent energy for your workouts due to its high protein content. Make sure to choose a low-fat yogurt and add some fruit on top if you like.
6. Smoothies: If you want a quick and easy option that you can consume on-the-go, smoothies fit the bill perfectly. Whip up some fruits, milk, or plant milk for a nutritious pre-workout drink. Watch your sugar intake, though, to keep it within a healthy calorie range.
Keep in mind to consume your pre-workout meal about 1 to 2 hours before you exercise for better digestion. Hopefully, these tips will aid you on your weight loss endeavor! If you’d like some post-workout meal suggestions, do let us know. We’re always open to hearing from you.
