Top 5 Pre-Work Out Snacks

Did you know that eating something before a work-out could help improve your overall energy, performance and weight loss? It’s true! Food is your bodies fuel, but the right type of fuel is also important.

But what is the “perfect” food to eat pre-work out? The answer is carbohydrates, which are found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy. Carbohydrates are your bodies first source of fuel. They are broken down in your body into glucose to provide energy to your muscles. Without this source of energy your body breaks down glycogen stores in your muscle then eventually protein in your muscle for energy. Physically your body may feel tired and weak leading to overall decreased physical performance.  So my advice is to eat something to preserve those muscles and fuel your workout! I typically recommend eating 10-30 minutes prior to working out. This will give your body sometime to digest.

Other benefits of eating something before working out include weight loss. Weight loss comes in a couple of ways; first, your body will be able to burn fat (instead of muscle) leading to fat loss. You are also less likely to be ravenous after a work-out leading to decreased overall daily caloric intake.

So here you go, my top 5 Pre-Work Out Snacks (under 200 Calories)!

1. Energy Bites/ Balls 

Check out my No-Bake Granola Bite. These bites are not only packed with flavor but provide a good source of whole grains from the oats carbohydrates from the oats and dried fruit as well as protein from the nuts, peanut butter and chia seeds. Make a batch and pack a few in your gym bag to snack on before your work out.

2. Dried fruit and nuts 

Dates are a great source of carbohydrate and fiber while the walnuts provide the protein and heart healthy fats. I love to enjoy these babies together, simply pit each date and stuff with one whole walnut. Pack two in a zip lock bag and throw in your gym bag to enjoy before your work-out. You can also pack any unsweetened dried fruit and nut you like. A serving is 1/4 cup dried fruit and 1 tablespoon of nuts.

3. Whole Wheat Toast with Nut Butter 

For a quick morning snack toast a slice of whole wheat bread and top with 1 tablespoon of natural peanut or almond butter. Easy and delicious!

4. Siggi’s Yogurt 

No preparation required with these babies.  Just enjoy a 5.3 ounce container of siggi’s yogurt with a couple tablespoons of your favorite fruit or Maple Cinnamon Granola!

5. Fruit with 1 ounce of cheese

Another easy peasy snack is a small fruit like a banana with a part skim mozzarella cheese stick. Great in the morning on-the-go or to pack and eat before your work-out in the afternoon.

Need some more on-the-go snack ideas? Check out my recipe round up of 20+ Portable High Protein Snacks!

Also check out my best post-work out meal ideas!