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Certain foods can disrupt your workout and lead to discomfort or digestive issues. To ensure a smooth exercise session, here are five foods you should avoid before working out:
- Protein Shakes While protein shakes are great for muscle recovery, they aren’t ideal before a workout. Protein slows digestion, which can make you feel sluggish. Instead, opt for carbohydrate-rich foods that provide quick energy.
- Fried Foods Foods like doughnuts, chips, and puff puff are hard to digest and can divert blood flow to the stomach, reducing circulation to your limbs. This can lead to lethargy and decreased performance.
- Dairy Products Dairy items like milk, cheese, and yogurt can upset your stomach, especially during intense workouts or hot weather, even if you’re not lactose intolerant. They can cause discomfort and nausea.
- Nuts and Avocados While healthy, nuts and avocados are high in fat and can cause nausea, bloating, or heartburn if consumed before exercise. They can also make you feel heavy and slow, particularly during cardio workouts.
- Cereals and Granola High-fiber foods like cereals and granola are better suited for after a workout. Fiber is not easily digested and can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including the urge to poop during your session.
Choosing the right pre-workout foods can enhance your performance and prevent discomfort. Stick to easily digestible carbs and lighter snacks to fuel your exercise effectively.