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A List of Kinds of Food to Avoid before Your Workout Routine

Food to Avoid

Whether you have been an avid workout buff for years or are still a beginner with your own exercise routine, you know that you need the proper amount of energy so you can have a good workout. And this energy can only be had from certain kinds of food - such as bananas, oats, whole grain bread, yoghurt, eggs, and other healthy foods.

If you are planning to work out in the morning, for example, you could certainly benefit from a yoghurt and fruit smoothie, ideally consumed an hour before your workout, as yoghurt is a great source of protein and fruit is often packed with good carbohydrates that can easily be broken down before you start your routine. Aside from yoghurt and fruit, another great source of energy is bananas, since they are not only filled with healthy carbs but they are also a good source of potassium, enhancing your muscle and nerve functions as well.

But, along with foods that are highly-recommended for a workout, there are, of course, foods that you should also avoid. These foods are definitely bad news for those wanting to get the right energy for their workout.

Fatty foods

Foods that have too much fat and grease, such as burgers, cold cuts, and other fatty foods, should well be avoided before your workout. This is because fat takes its time before it leaves the stomach, which can leave you feeling sluggish and full (and even sleepy). Along with being slow to digest, fat can also make your muscles cramp up more easily. If you want, you can reward yourself with a burger or two after your workout - but definitely not before.

Sugary foods

Sugary foods and drinks should be avoided as well. Even if sugar (or glucose) can give you an instant energy rush, the sugar low will more than likely make your body crash. Carbohydrates and sugars from bananas and fruit, especially when combined with high-protein foods such as dairy and yoghurt, can be good prior to a workout, but if you get your sugar and carbohydrates from candy, chocolates, or other sweet treats and desserts, your body will crash once the sugar has been broken down and used up. Avoid sugary drinks such as soda and other sweet drinks as well.

Additional tips

If you really want to get the most from your workout, you should eat sparingly. Eating before your workout is a good thing - just try not to overeat, either. A banana or a cup of oats or yoghurt can hardly be seen as a full meal - they are just snacks to tide you over and give you energy for a more intense exercise workout. If you eat too much before your workout, you may suffer from indigestion, feel sleepy or sluggish, or even become nauseous. Just remember that moderation is key - fill your body with enough good food to enhance your energy, but do not eat too much or you will end up not having a workout at all.

The experts at gyms in Dublin like Icon Health Club - one of the more popular health clubs in Dublin-(learn more about their services at http://iconhealthclub.ie) also recommend drinking lots of water or liquids, not only before, but also during and after your workout. Water will keep your body hydrated and prevent too much electrolyte loss due to too much sweating. As long as you keep these tips in mind - and know what foods to avoid - you can enhance your workout routine and get the most from it that you can.

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