Exercise and Eating – Top Tips

Exercise – the UK’s number 1 New Year’s resolution for 2018. We want to help you fulfil this goal! Eating the wrong foods before, during or after exercise can have a profound effect on your performance. Follow our top tips to stop food getting in the way of that new healthy lifestyle.
Before exercise
You don’t want to consume any foods that may cause stomach discomfort, usually those high in fat and fibre.
Choose:
- porridge
- fruit
- a slice of wholegrain bread
- yoghurt or non-dairy alternative
- a glass of milk or non-dairy alternative
Avoid:
- avocados
- olives
- full fat cheeses
- chips or crisps
- raw vegetables
- high-fibre cereals
During exercise
60 minutes of exercise or less should only require water for quick hydration. Not drinking enough could have a major effect on your performance, therefore it is important to drink regularly throughout the day and start a session well hydrated. For exercise exceeding an hour it is advised to have something that is quickly and easily digested.
Choose:
- a glass of milk or low-fat yogurt
- a banana
- dried fruit
- a cereal bar
Avoid:
- fast food
- sweets or chocolate
- white bread
After exercise
Eating after exercising can help aid faster recovery and build muscle. Get it right and you’ll feel even better about those reps you have conquered!
Choose:
- a glass of milk or non-dairy alternative
- a banana
- fish
- starches – rice or potatoes
Avoid:
- raw vegetables
- nuts
- butter
- bacon
- coffee
- fast food
A few recipes to aid exercise and recovery…
Superseeded Cocoa Protein Balls
Nutritious, convenient and super-easy to make, protein balls are a great snack for before, during or after a workout.
Chestnut and Quinoa Energy Balls
Quinoa Porridge with tangy blackberries
Easy on your stomach, this bowl of love will give you the little boost your body needs. The small quantity of nuts will keep insulin levels from dropping mid-workout.
Mexican Grains and Chicken Burrito Bowl
This nutrient dense dish will fill you up after a work out nicely, without the dreaded bloat.
Teriaki Salmon with Wholegrain Rice & Seaweed
Salmon has bioactive peptides which helps inflammation reduction and gives joint support for after exercising.
For more information visit the NHS LiveWell Website.