When to eat (in relation to one's workout)

[MissMillie]

I don't very often eat before working out. I usually get up and first thing I do is get my gym clothes on. As I drive to work (where the gym is) I try to get in a little water. Then I work out. After working out, I grab a bite (focussing on protein). I take my multi-vitamin, my iron and my calcium with my breakfast.

Sometimes I can get a no-sugar-added Carnation Instant Breakfast in before leaving the house, but most days I don't.

Should I be trying to get up earlier and get more into myself BEFORE working out?

[ZenLefty]

1. I hear lots of different things.

Bodybuilders say the best time to eat is within 1/2 hour after working out. Or 1/2 hour before. Or both. Or neither.

Eating protien after a workout helps to increase muscle building, in theory. I used to chug protien shakes after working out and never noticed much of a difference, though.

Carbs are said to be best before working out to get energy. As for me, I have plenty of energy stored in all these fat cells around my middle, so I don't need a carb drink. In fact, if I eat before I work out I tend to have a bad workout.

I think everyone's a bit different. Unless you're feeling tired and exhausted in your workout, what you're currently doing is probably fine.

[MissMillie]

2. I don't feel tired in my work-out

but not long after breakfast, I hit a low.

[ZenLefty]

3. Your workouts have increased your metabolism.

Your body wants to burn more calories than it used to. Don't go with a bigger breakfast to compensate, though. I'd try to add in a snack right around that low. A banana works pretty good, or maybe some kind of energy/protien bar.

[vikegirl]

4. Are you trying to lose weight?

I've read that if you are, it's best to work out on an empty stomach. That way, you'll burn more fat as opposed to glycogen. However, if you're looking improve performace and endurance, a *light* snack is suggested.

I honestly don't know myself because I do what you do--just jump right into it without eating at all. I anxious to hear other responses also because I don't know how reliable the information I read is.

:shrug:

Edit: spelling

[Zing Zing Zingbah]

5. I usually work out before I eat too

or if I'm really hungry I have a small snack. I've noticed that if I eat too much dairy products before running I get cramps. I'm not sure if this happens to other people.