Well, for most people to eat or not before a workout regimen continues to be a debated topic. However, heading straight to the gym means we are ignoring a key element from the workout - fuel!  Yes, not only does the right kind of food offer you energy, but it also helps to kickstart metabolism.

Fitness experts reveal that pre-work snacks deliver one with the needed energy to sustain while working out. However, exercising with a full stomach is not perfect but eating the right type and amount of food is vital. Working out on an empty stomach may also distract a person. It is also important to eat an hour or two before exercising so that the body has enough time to digest.

Is It Essential To Eat Before A Morning Workout?

To eat before a morning exercise regimen mostly depends on personal fitness goals, the type of workouts and duration and the individual’s health status. Generally, after a night of sleep, blood sugar levels are lesser than when a person has had food, and this can make one feel a little lazy and tired during a workout.

Thus, a small snack before the morning exercise regimen may stabilize blood sugar levels and offer a person energy to perform well. But for some people working out immediately after eating can result in tummy upset as the food has not had time to digest. However, some people prefer to exercise in a fasted state, without having breakfast or snacks, but this may impede the performance of a person while doing certain types of workouts.

Also Read: Post Workout Diet: Eat These 5 Protein Rich Foods For Muscle Recovery

Experts also state that most individuals can safely exercise without eating unless they are performing high-intensity workouts for 60 minutes or longer. Further people with specific fitness goals or health problems may need to eat before working out. Mainly diabetics should ensure that they are fuelled well before workouts to maintain blood glucose levels. If a person has a medical problem, always consult with a healthcare provider to find out the right approach that suits best for you.

Pre-work nutrition is highly personalised and its most effective when a person customize it to their lifestyle, goals, and body. Furthermore, what works for one person may not work for another, thus it’s essential to see what works best for you.

The key is to adopt a moderate path, which is eating right at the right time, thus providing plenty of energy for cardio and strength training exercises.

Here’s a list of foods that are ideal to have before a workout. Check out this infographic for more details.