Fueling Before A Workout This step alone will not only lengthen your workout but it will also increase your performance which is key when training for an event. If you don’t eat before exercise you will likely feel light-headedness, fatigue, and nausea. In addition, your body turns to muscle protein for fuel because it doesn’t have enough carbohydrate. By starting your workout well-fueled, your body will burn a combination of the carbohydrate stored in your muscles and stored fat. Eat 2-4 hours before a workout or event. Choose a high carbohydrate, low fat, moderate protein meal or snack. Drink at least 10 ounces of water to help offset sweat loss during your workout.
Fueling After A Workout It is important to consume calories and fluids during the first half hour after you exercise for optimal recovery. If you aren’t hungry right away a quick snack will do. Drinking a sports drink or 100% fruit juice will do the trick! Don’t forget to eat a meal later with protein to repair muscle damage.
© Meri Raffetto, 2004
About the Author
Meri Raffetto is a Registered Dietitian and a recognized professional in the area of nutrition and wellness. She has developed online weight management programs to help people get off of diets and get into way of life. For more information or to sign up for our free newsletter, visit www.reallivingnutrition.com.
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