Physical activity is crucial to maintaining a healthy body, but some days you just can’t seem to power through that workout.  Part of the reason people lose steam halfway through a workout is because they’re not giving their body the proper nutrients it needs to perform at its best.  What you eat before and after a workout can be as important as the workout itself.  There are several foods you can incorporate into your pre-workout diet to help give you that extra energy boost.  When fueling up with energy boosting, healthy foods you’ll notice the effects on your performance in no time.

 

Fruits and vegetables are a great way to jumpstart your day and can be incorporated into all meals, especially breakfast.

 

One of the ways you can boost your workout is by eating a healthy and filling breakfast.  Eating breakfast makes you less likely to snack throughout the day and gives you the energy boost to start your day off right.  Try these Chia Cherry Crunch Bites for a dose of protein and healthy fats.  They also just happen to be gluten-free and paleo-friendly for those who are on more restrictive diets.

 

Green smoothies have been popular in workout communities in recent years, and for good reason.  They’re a quick, easy way to give yourself that boost you need to hit the gym or power through the rest of your day.  Try this recipe which uses kale.  If green smoothies freak you out, don’t worry.  This recipe has lots of fruit to balance that green flavor.  For an added boost try adding some spinach and a banana.

 

Healthy and leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, and lettuce are good sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plant-based substances help to protect the body and fight off common ailments.

 

Try this High Protein Oatmeal recipe.  This oatmeal is filling, but packs a punch with the nutrients.  In addition to fueling your workout, oatmeal can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.  It also contains lots of fiber which aids in weight loss.  The best part about this recipe is that you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a grab and go meal.

 

To get an extra lean energy boost combine a lean protein, a fibrous carbohydrate, and fruit in a delicious, healthy salad.  Try this recipe for an extra antioxidant boost that comes from berries.

 

Don’t forget that it’s also important to eat the right foods after a workout.  Try this brown rice egg bowl recipe to help your body recover.  It also helps build muscle with protein and heart healthy fats.  When you get proper nutrients by eating the right foods you have more energy.  Consuming lean proteins in combination with exercise can also have lasting benefits for your heart health.

 

All of these quick boosting recipes can help your performance in and out of the gym.  Do your workout a favor and try out a new healthy food today!

 

 

According to the American Heart Association, living a healthy lifestyle is beneficial to your body.  A healthy eating plan can help with the prevention of heart disease, obesity, and many other health issues.  To get more information, please visit the American Heart Association.

 

Article Written by Alessa Isabella , Instructor at Aradia Fitness Cary in Cary, North Carolina

March 1, 2017