Eat before exercise

Whether you’re exercising to lose weight, get fit or just for fun, it’s important to eat the right foods before a session. Not eating before your workout can result in low blood sugar, leaving you feeling light-headed and tired. As long as you eat the right foods, you can have a successful workout. It’s best to have a little portion and eat 30 minutes before the workout to ensure the protein and carbohydrates have begun to break down (and so you don’t feel nauseous!).

Top 5 foods for before exercise:

Bananas. They’re known as nature’s power bar, loaded with digestible carbohydrates which provide energy. As well as, being packed with potassium, great for aiding muscle and nerve function. Try eating a banana on its own or chopped it up to have on a slice of wholegrain toast for something different.

Oats. Oats gradually release carbohydrate into blood stream as they are packed with fiber. This then keeps energy levels consistent during your workout. They’re also filled with vitamin B which converts the carbohydrate to energy. Try your oats with a little yogurt and fruit for a delicious snack.

Wholegrain bread. Wholegrain bread is a great source of carbohydrate which is your energy source. Add some eggs on top for protein. Poached eggs or scrambled eggs with smoked salmon on wholegrain toast is a personal favourite of ours.

Fruit and yogurt. Fruit is high in carbohydrates that can break down quickly. Often fruits can be forgotten about, but protein doesn’t break down quick enough for a workout. The protein from the fruit can then be broken down later to prevent muscle damage. Greek yogurt is also packed full of protein and tastes delicious with fruit, you could even add a bit of honey for a little sweetness.

Apple slices dipped in peanut butter. Packed with protein and carbs this is a delicious snack perfect for on the go!

It’s important to remember that although fruit is healthy, it’s best to eat it whole and not in a smoothie. This is because when the fruit is broken down before eating, the sugar can be more quickly absorbed by the blood. However, a smoothie now and then isn’t the end of the world! The natural sugar from a smoothie, is better than a chocolate bar, just enjoy them in moderation.

We love eating a small pot of fruit (usually red grapes, strawberries and blueberries) with Greek yogurt smothered on top and a drizzle of honey as we like a sweeter taste!

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