What to Eat and What to Avoid Before Running?

Running after a big meal or not eating correctly can ruin your workout. Therefore, it tells you how good it is to eat before you exercise!  

Depending on the duration and intensity of the workout, some people prefer to run on an empty stomach. In contrast, others need food to avoid dizziness and stomach discomfort. 

According to nutritionist, pre-workout eating habits vary from person to person, and it’s best to observe what works for you. Suppose you’re in the camp of those who prefer to eat before a run. In that case, the nutritionist tells you to prioritize the carbohydrates, proteins and sources of hydration that you tolerate best. 

Eating a meal 3-4 hours before your run or a snack 30-60 minutes before, which consists of carbohydrates and protein, is good. It is more important that what you consume is tolerated by your body, said the doctor, who recommends smoothies instead of hard-to-digest solid foods.

The specialist also recommends fruits, whole grains and nuts. The higher the intensity and duration of exercise, the more carbohydrates your body will rely on.

What to eat before running

The dietician offers some healthy meal options that you can try before choosing. If you run in the morning, a good option would be a smoothie with bananas, almond milk, almond butter, coffee, or fresh fruit with nuts or peanut butter. If you run in the afternoon, you can try for a snack: oats with Greek yoghurt, almonds and berries or eggs on toast and avocado or toast with peanut butter and fresh berries.

What foods to avoid before running

The specialist says it is good to avoid food products that contain excessive fibre before running, especially products with added fibre, such as protein bars and snacks. Fried foods, which are high in fat, are other bad choices, as are those containing artificial sweeteners and sugar, as they can cause stomach upset.