Did you know your diet and your workout is connected? You need to fuel your body properly in order to perform your best. If you don’t know where to start, keep reading.
This article will go over all the tips you need to know about fitness and fitness nutrition before and during your workout.
1. Don’t Try to Run on an Empty Tank
Many dedicated runners or gym-goers often wake up early in the morning to begin their exercise routines. However, if you skip breakfast before hitting the gym or go for a jog on a completely empty stomach, chances are you will burn out faster. Your body relies on energy from calories to keep you going.
Eating a small snack, such as a piece of fruit, early in the morning before you start your routine will help you perform better and last longer.
2. Get Plenty of Protein
Protein is an essential component of your diet, especially if you are looking to build muscle or lose weight. The way you use protein will depend on your goals.
If you are trying to lose weight, protein-rich foods, supplements, or drinks are great options to help keep you fuller for longer. Start your day with a protein-heavy breakfast and fortified snacks to keep you satiated.
When it comes to building muscle, the best time to take protein is about 15 minutes to one hour after a workout. It is during this period of time that your body is thought to use nutrients like protein to repair and build up muscle tissue.
3. Replace Your Electrolytes
When you wipe your forehead on a towel, you’re not just wiping away sweat; you’re wiping away electrolyte that pools from your pores when you work out. Electrolytes are minerals in your body, calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride, essential for health. These electrolytes are lost during workouts or whenever you sweat.
An electrolyte imbalance can result in muscle cramps and weakness, fatigue, numbness, twitching, blood pressure changes, and other, more severe results. It is important to replenish your electrolytes with a supplement or food high in the aforementioned minerals.
4. Eat the Right Kinds of Foods
If you are just starting your fitness journey (or are a seasoned pro), you should know the foods which help power your workout and keep you going. Consider adding these to your diet:
Legumes: Legumes are high in protein, fiber, and full of vitamins and minerals The legume family includes nuts such as peanuts, and beans, like chickpeas.
Seeds: Chia seeds are fiber-filled and protein-packed and can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, salad, and more. Although it is often called a grain, quinoa is actually a seed. Quinoa has an impressive profile of nutrients and makes a good replacement for white rice.
Vegetables: Common “superfoods” in the vegetable category are broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and sweet potatoes. Veggies can be easily hidden in recipes to help discreetly get vitamins, minerals, and fiber in.
Fitness Nutrition Made Simple
Maintaining a healthy balance with fitness nutrition and your lifestyle is doable. If you already live an active lifestyle, incorporate these tips into your daily routine. If you’re just starting out, now you know how to eat healthy before, during, and after your workouts.
Did you like this article? If so, be sure to check out the other fine posts on our site for more great fitness and lifestyle content.