The Science of Snacking: Pre Workout

By: Victoria Shanta Retelny, RD; Photography by: Peter Chou

Preworkout Snack: 

Nutrient Breakdown: Carbs (60%), Protein (20%), Fat (20%)

Snacking Goal: Energize your workouts.  
Rev up your workout energy in two ways: Eat a carb-rich snack within an hour or two before you exercise and you’ll be able to exercise harder and consequently burn more calories. “Preworkout snacks should be light, easily digested and lower in fat – so there is no decrease in blood flow to the muscles,” Gerbstadt says. Secondly, drink water before you go. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) suggests drinking 16 to 20 ounces of water to prevent dehydration and improve performance.

Try:  

• 3 rye crisp crackers with 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese + 1 small piece of fruit
• 1/2 whole grain English muffin, 2 tbsp hummus, 1/2 cup fresh berries
• 1 cup vegetable soup + 3 small whole-grain crackers + 1/2 cup applesauce 

(via oxygenmag.com)