Pre and Post Workout Snack

nomoreexcuses121

Do I need to eat before and after I workout? I'm usually not hungry before, but after I'm usually pretty hungry. I've just been drinking water because I don't want to eat the calories that I just burned! Am I going about this wrong? Thanks in advance.

HMonsterX

You should generally eat something within 20-30 mins of a workout, preferably something with protein, give your metabolism some energy. You also dont want to work out on an empty stomach.

As for eating your exercise calories, its a hot topic on these boards, some say you should, some say you shouldnt.....there is no exact answer. Its different for everyone. Try it for a week, then try it the other way, and see what works for you!

LillysGranny

To some extent, I'd say it is a matter of preference as long as you're eating enough by the end of the day. I eat about 2 hours before I workout--usually plain greek yogurt with almonds and a banana. Then I have supper after my workout.

fastbelly

There's a lot to the nutrition side of working out but this is something you may want to research further, there's loads of resources on the net.

To simplify:

Before: (about an hour before) Carbohydrate rich foods

After: Water & Protein rich foods (Protein shakes for instance)

eamjohnson

I don't always get any food in before I work in since I like to work out right away in the morning. However, if you do, I will echo others in saying you should eat something rich in healthy carbohydrates, like fruit or whole grains.

As far as post-workout snacks go, you can do no wrong with--believe it or not--low-fat chocolate milk. According to studies, people who drink chocolate milk after a hard workout develop more muscle and less fat than those who drink sports beverages with just carbohydrates.

Check out the post over at Lifehacker:

http://lifehacker.com/5815625/the-best-post+exercise-drink-chocolate-milk

candistyx

I had smoked mackerel today. It was so nommy. Another day I had smoked trout.
Smoked fish is like fast food because you dont need to prepare it and its sooo delicious. It's not bad for you either.

nomoreexcuses121

I have heard this as well about chocolate milk. Do you have any information on what type, or does it matter? I was also thinking that I have some chocolate protein powder. Do you think it would have the same effect if I mixed it with some milk? Thanks :-)