Ready for a sweaty workout? Whoa, hold your horses. These are the best foods you should be eating before and after a workout, in order to fuel your body in the right way. Stock up on these foods and have the ultimate sweat session of 2018.
Before: Whole Wheat Toast with Sliced Banana and Cinnamon
Carbs need to become your go-to when you’re getting ready to workout. However the key is create an even balance of simple and complex carbs – once you do, you’ll feel a slow and steady release of energy as you workout. That’s crucial in maintaining a steady pace as you burn off fats and build muscle. Opting for whole-wheat toast with fruit (boosts energy) offers you both kinds of carbs, plus they’re easy to digest. Adding bananas raises your potassium levels and cinnamon stabilizes blood sugar while also improving brain function. All of that in a tiny, tasty sandwich!
After: Grilled Chicken and Mixed Vegetables
As your body is recovering from an intense workout, you need to fill it with nutrients. Yes, chicken is a perfect choice! Chicken will fill you up without making you feel bloated thanks to the carbs and lean protein it contains. Be sure to add a mix of vegetables, in olive oil, to keep your heart healthy and happy.
Before: Greek Yogurt and Trail Mix
If you’re a runner (kudos to you first of all), make sure you’re eating yogurt before throwing on your running shoes. Why yogurt? It won’t overwhelm your stomach. Moreover, adding some trail mix will add some pip to your step. Just make sure that you’re choosing nuts and dried fruits, no chocolate! Dried fruits have healthy sugars that offer a quick energy boost whereas the nuts keep your insulin levels up. Lastly, don’t overdo it because nuts are high in fat so they take longer to digest, which will leave you sluggish.
After: Veggie Omelet with Avocado
Eggs are a prefect source of protein which aids in muscle growth and recovery, but you knew that already. Be sure to change your routine, don’t always opt for scrambled eggs, instead make an omelet packed with vegetables. Top it off with avocado for added fiber and good fats, monosaturated. Avocados allow your body to best absorb fat soluble nutrients that your vegetables contain, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. All of those vitamins are loaded with antioxidants, which boost your body both inside and out.