Preparation is Key: Healthy Snacks to Eat Before Yoga

Serious athletes and fitness fanatics know that the key to success is preparation. In order to be successful at any intense workout regimen, it’s important to fuel your body with healthy foods that will jump start your metabolism, give you the energy to complete a workout, and satiate your hunger until you’re finished and able to eat a healthy meal. Here are a few great foods to eat prior to a yoga or Pilates workout.

Fruit

Most people would agree that fruit is a good pre-workout snack, but the type of fruit matters significantly. Apples and pears are both great options, because they’re packed with fiber, which will satiate your hunger until you’re finished, and the burst of natural sugar they give you will help keep you energized throughout a workout. They’re also full of liquid, which will contribute toward proper hydration. Raisins are also a great option, plus they’re easily portable and easy to keep in a gym bag for longer than a day. Their natural sugars and iron are the perfect pick-me-up. Bananas are a great source of potassium, which helps keep your body hydrated. 

Nuts and Grains

If you have time before a workout, a small bowl of oatmeal with some berries can make an excellent snack. Be careful of instant oatmeal packets, because the flavoring often contains a lot of processed sugar. The complex carbohydrates in oatmeal will burn easily during the workout and tide you over until the end of your class. Because a half cup of oatmeal is light, it also won’t make you ill while practicing. Almonds are also a fantastic option, because they contain potassium, vitamin E, and magnesium. Plain, raw almonds are a better option than salted.

Dairy

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Greek yogurt is a terrific option, because it is protein-rich. If your body can handle lactose, it’s a great naturally occurring sugar that will sustain your energy. Pour in a bit of granola, nuts, or berries, for a delicious little pick-me-up to help make your workouts beneficial and successful. Jump start that metabolism, and eat to your health.