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What to Eat Before Working Out

What to Eat (and When) Before Working Out

April 10, 2013

Source: Thinkstock

3 / 8

by Michele Foley 5

Two to Three Hours Before a Workout

If you're planning a meal a couple of hours before working out, Heidi suggests eating a meal that is a mix of carbs, protein, and fat, which falls in the 300- to 400-calorie range. Her suggestions include a small serving of lean protein with veggies, hummus and pretzel crisps, or a fruit and nut bar (we're partial to KIND and Larabars) with a small serving of yogurt. Avoid gassy food like beans and broccoli since they may cause intestinal discomfort.

3 / 8

by Michele Foley 5

Two to Three Hours Before a Workout

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5 Comments

imLissy 1 year

because fruit takes longer to digest. The idea is that If you're going to eat just a few minutes before a workout, you need carbs right away.though I'll eat about 15 minutes before my workout and I'll have a couple spoonfuls of outmeal or something and I'm just fine for an hour

Pursy 1 year

I have to admit I was a little surprised to see experts recommending white bread or purely sugar-based foods right before a workout. Why not fruit? It's sweet and offers sugar and carbs.

Sinazucar 4 years

I like eating no less than two hours before I exercise, so I can directly burn fat and not the food I just ate. Ideally if I have time, I exercise right after waking up before eating.

almostloli 4 years

i love milk that is specially formulated for exercise (which contains L carnitine or CLA) just enough calories and protein we need usually they taste good too!

mands10 4 years

It's hard for me to find the right snack to eat before my work out. I usually rush right from work to the gym and I end up feeling so sluggish-and when I do eat something, it usually upsets my stomach mid way through my work out. These tips are going to come in handy, thank you!