Many people take their gym workouts seriously nowadays, often heading to the gym on an empty stomach due to conflicting advice or uncertainty about what to eat. It's important to find a balance and choose the right foods at the right times to avoid overeating before exercising. Timing your meals is crucial since exercising on a full stomach is not recommended, and hunger can also be a distraction. Consuming foods high in carbohydrates is typically recommended before working out since carbs are the body's primary fuel source. Opting for easily digestible carbs can provide energy and minimise hunger while exercising.
Here are some pre-workout meals that you can consume before hitting the gym:
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a perfect choice when you can't have a meal a couple of hours prior to your morning workout. It is well known for helping people relax and for providing lots of energy. You can also add some fruits to your oatmeal bowl to enhance its nutritional value. Since oats are rich in fibre, they get digested quickly and do not bother your system when you exercise.
Yoghurt
Curd or dahi contains calcium, proteins, and a trace amount of natural sugar. Because it is gentle on the stomach and digestive system, it is an excellent choice to take before a strenuous workout. Yoghurt can be made more energising by adding whole-grain cereal, fruit, or honey.
Banana
Bananas have sugar and carbohydrates in them, which provide the body with energy. They contain a lot of carbs. One medium-sized banana is eaten approximately 45 minutes to an hour before your workout is typically enough to keep you going throughout your workout regimen. It is just like giving your body the fuel it needs to function properly.
Energy bars
You'll have more energy for your workout if you eat a pre-workout bar. Energy bars contain carbohydrates that give the body energy. However, make sure that your energy or granola bar contains the bare minimum of fat, protein, and fibre.