It’s common knowledge that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. According to a Harvard Medical School study, the blood sugar we need to energize our muscles and brains is normally low when we wake up. Breakfast gives us a boost! Eating breakfast regularly has been linked to a lower risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Fueling up with a healthy, well-balanced meal before you get your day started is especially important when you exercise. The right foods can prepare your body with the energy it needs to maximize your workout! In fact, adequate food and fluid should be consumed before, during, and after exercise to help maintain blood glucose concentration during exercise and improve recovery time. According to The American College of Sports Medicine, athletes should be well hydrated before exercise and drink enough fluid during and after exercise to balance fluid losses.
It’s a good idea to prepare your body at least two hours before you exercise by:
- Hydrating with water.
- Eating healthy carbohydrates such as whole-grain cereals (with low-fat or skim milk), whole-wheat toast, low-fat or fat-free yogurt, whole grain pasta, brown rice, fruits and vegetables.
- Avoiding saturated fats and even a lot of healthy protein — because these types of fuels digest slower in your stomach and take away oxygen and energy-delivering blood from your muscles.
- If you only have 5-10 minutes before you exercise, eat a piece of fruit such as an apple or banana.
Experts say the key is to eat easily digested carbohydrates, so you don’t feel sluggish.
