Pre-Workout Energy Boosters

There are times when our body feels overly exhausted and lacks the energy needed to really get through a productive workout. Instead of pushing your body to limits it may not be ready to handle there are some pre-workout and nutrition tips to consider in order to achieve the best fitness results.

When looking at the foods to consume before a workout, it's important to consider consuming foods that provide glucose, prevent dehydration and minimize gastrointestinal upset. Avoid foods that are too rich in protein and/or fat which can often leave you feeling sluggish and bloated. Fats and proteins take longer to digest than simple carbohydrates. Foods with complex carbohydrates provide some of the best energy fuel. Complex carbs offer glucose and can covert glucose into energy, slowly supplying your muscles with consistent energy throughout your workout. These are typically found in foods full of vitamins and minerals such as fruits, vegetables and grains.

Pre Workout Energy Meals:

(Here are some energy foods for a power boost you should have one hour before exercising)

Oatmeal, Banana/Apple/Mango/Watermelon, Yam/Potato, Peanuts, Yogurt, Turkey sandwich, English muffin with tablespoon of honey, Corn Flakes with raisins and skim milk, Carrots, Popcorn, Chicken Breasts

Hydration:

Consuming approximately 2 cups of water 2-3 hours before exercising will keep you from becoming dehydrated during a workout. A gallon of water a day is the recommended consumption, but drinking too much water can also flush out the minerals and vitamins that our body needs.

Pre Workout Supplementation:

Creatine supplements can give you that extra energy boost needed to get through your workout. Another good supplement is a whey protein shake. These are high in protein and are recommended to be taken one hour before a workout. If you're looking for a natural supplement, Ginseng is known for providing strength and energy while garlic, among its many other benefits, increases stamina.

Conclusion Pre Workout Energy Foods:

Your body takes about five hours to digest fat, three hours for protein and two hours for carbohydrates. So make sure to give yourself enough time to plan out an energizing meal before running off to a workout your body may not be ready for.

Source: http://www.bodybuildingforyou.com