There are certain universal questions that experts hear most of the time on an everyday basis when it comes to fitness. Like,
- How can I get the most out of my workouts?
- How can I lose weight faster, burn the most calories, and feel energized enough to power through every training session?
While other elements may affect your unique situation, there’s one simple answer that applies to all of these questions: Eat! Eat the right food at the right time, the experts say.
Keep reading for pro tips about what to eat before and what to eat after a workout to burn the most calories, stay energized, build lean muscle, lose weight, and speed up recovery.
Here are some commonly asked questions on what to Eat Before and After a Workout
Why is a pre-workout meal important?
Dr. Shaffali Lakhanpal, Dietician, MD, MSC(DFSM) at Jalandhar said, “Pre-workout meal is important because you need energy at the time of exercise. If you don’t eat anything before your workout then it will not help you out to build up the body or to make the most of your workout.”
What is the optimal nutrient intake before exercise?
“It is very important to note that whenever you are working out, you need to hydrate yourself sufficiently. You must eat 2 hours before exercise along with this intake lot of water. Your diet should include a good amount of carbohydrates such as whole grain, cereals with low fats, like avoid toned milk, you can take fat-free yogurt or whole-grain pasta, try to have brown rice fruits and more vegetables. And do avoid saturated fats,” said Lakhanpal.
Is it true that our body responses to exercise differently based on what we eat before exercise?
Dr. Lakhanpal said, “Yes definitely, if we have good carbohydrates, low fats, and good energy food then our body will act differently, specifically in a better way.”
When to eat after exercise?
“Ideally after half an hour of the exercise, we should eat. Being said that, we must eat a good amount of carbohydrates, intake a sufficient amount of water, orange juice,” suggests Dr. Lakhanpal.
What one should eat after a workout?
Dr. Lakhanpal says, “Along with these we should take good protein-like pulses as it helps to make our muscles strong. Sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables are also required.”