How Long After Eating You Can Work Out?
Food is fuel—especially when it comes to having enough energy to power your workouts. Calories are energy for your body. That’s why it’s commonly advised to munch on something prior to hitting the gym. But, you might hit some issues if you workout right after you’re done with a meal.
It’s possible that eating right before working out can cause stomach problems. And eating too early can leave you feeling sluggish and unproductive during your workout. Plus, depending on your body and your goals, how much you should eat can vary. There’s a lot to consider, clearly. Finding the balance between the two, and snacking on the right things, may mean the difference between having an average workout and having a great one. So, how long should you wait after a meal to workout?
What Should You Eat Before You Work Out? Exactly what you choose as your pre-workout meal is just as much a factor to a good workout as when you eat, says Dezi Abeyta, R.D.N., a Men’s Health advisor, and author of the Lose Your Gut Guide. A simple carbohydrate and some quick-acting sugars will probably give you the energy you’re looking for before the gym, without weighing you down. This is especially true if you’re about to hit the cardio section. Think fruit, white bread, cereals, bagels, or honey. The heavier carbs like rice and pasta are best saved for after your workout.
Excerpted from Men’s Health
