Workout Energy Boosting Foods
At Jeca, we believe in balance. As busy as we are, we know that finding time to work out is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. What you eat before and after you exercise is key to staying energized. Here’s some tips on what to eat to fuel a workout and keep your engine running smoothly!
Fueling Up: What to Eat Before a Workout
Ideally, you’ll have time to fuel up around two hours before you start your workout session. Your body needs adequate energy so you can keep your performance high. Slow release carbs from natural whole food sources such as natural energy bars, whole-grains, brown rice, natural yogurt, fruits, and vegetables will give you a steady release of energy. Of course, staying hydrated is extremely important so be sure to drink lots of water. If you’re out of time and have to eat something in a rush right before you start exercising, a piece of fruit such as an apple or banana will provide you with a burst of quick release energy.
Avoid foods with a high saturated fat content - even if it’s from a healthy source as this will be digested slowly and take away oxygen and energy-delivering blood from your muscles. Though it may sound counter-intuitive, avoid eating too much protein before a workout because although it helps build muscles, it too takes longer to digest and is better saved for your post-exercise refuel. You’ll still want some protein and healthy fat in moderation, however (especially if you’re doing weight training); great options for a little protein boost include nuts, eggs, or milk.
Refueling: What to Eat After a Workout
What you eat and drink after you put your body through its paces is equally important - you need to strike the perfect balance between protein, carbs, and fat. Keeping hydrated is again key but after a workout, you might want to add some fruit juice to your water to give you some much needed extra carbs to replenish your glycogen stores. Other sources of carbs to chow down on include leafy vegetables, quinoa, sweet potatoes, oatmeal or brown rice.
Protein comes into its own after a workout because it helps repair and build your muscles. Look for lean protein sources such as chicken or salmon. Other protein ideas include eggs, greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Some suggest that fat after a working out is a no-no, but studies have shown that healthy fats like full-fat milk can actually help promote muscle growth. Still, you’ll want to keep the amount of fat you eat lower than the carbohydrate and protein you consume.
With their high-quality, all-natural ingredients and perfectly balanced protein, carbs, and healthy fats, Jeca Energy Bars are a great pre or post-workout snack choice! Try one and see for yourself!
