20 Ideal Pre and Post Workout Snacks

Claiming that eating before a workout is bad because of stomach bloat, feeling sleepy all of a sudden and similar excuses is simple lack of knowledge and nothing else.

Let’s think about it; you need a strong source of energy to go through all the weight-lifting, running or cross-fit workout, right? Where will you get this energy from if not from food? And after the sweating workout, how will your muscles recover without a source of energy? They won’t. Bottom line, for every function your body performs, it needs energy which it gets from the food you consume daily. And that’s non-debatable.

However, what is debatable is the choice of food and the time at which you consume it. Some experts claim that the best time for eating is about 1-2 hours before a workout, and 30 minutes after the workout, for best absorption of nutrients. What you consume, also matters a lot.

Pre-workout foods

1. Yogurt Parfait

In a large glass mix 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup whole grain cereal and a few strawberries for flavour. The yogurt and cereal are full of protein, the primary source of muscle growth.

2. A fruity smoothie

If you are taking whey protein as a supplement (which you should if you’re serious about your training) then this smoothie will come as a rich treat before your workout. It’s easy on the stomach and filled with nutrients to give you that amount of energy you need. Use one scoop of whey protein powder and a cup of frozen strawberries. Add a little coconut water (or mineral water or milk) and blend it all together. Drink it 1 hour before the workout.

3. Oats and eggs

This is a real protein bomb! Eggs are filled with the much needed protein to provide you with enough fuel for muscle building and oats will give you the energetic start. Mix a bowl of oatmeal and two boiled eggs for the optimal results.

4. Veggie omelet

Eggs, eggs and more eggs! If you prefer something richer than just two boiled eggs, make an omelet with veggies! You can use tomatoes, peppers, olives, mushrooms, or whatever you prefer.

5. Spinach salad

Remember Popeye and his can of spinach? There’s no coincidence here. Spinach is filled with iron and other vitamins and minerals. You can consume it in a salad with mushrooms and olives.

6. Fruits with cottage cheese

Sounds weird? It doesn’t taste like it. Slice a pineapple and top the slices with cottage cheese-filled with protein.