better to eat before or after a workout?

[wiskband]

OK so whats the deal on when to eat? Before or after? I am gussing that before is good cause you will have more energy and I have heard that after is good becuase something about your metabolism has increase. WHICH IS IT? Whats your opinion?

[jimmytammy]

That is a great question. I exercise early in the morning and there is no way that I can eat anything before. I have also found that if I eat before, I get stomach cramps.

I am looking forward to hearing what others think.
Tammy

[disnygoof]

Actually, it's both! You should eat something w/carbs about 30-45 minutes BEFORE you work out to get some energy and then after, usually IMMEDIATELY, have something very protein rich so it will help your muscles recover from the work out, something like tuna or a protein bar/shake.

Hope that helps! :)

Christiana

[imgoingtodisney]

I tried working out once before I ate. I felt light-headed.
Since then Ive always eaten something before I start exercising.

Lately it's coffee, cran juice, 1/2cup blueberries and a cup of raisin bran before I take DS to the bus stop. After he leaves off I go to walk the circle.

[cinmell]

I like to eat after exercise. I've tried eating first but felt a little sick so know I just eat after and hope the metabolism is working a little more efficiently at that point ;) .

[JustMe28]

I really believe in eating an hour after working out. I have read this numerous times in health books & magazines. Also, this gives you time to shower and also prepare your meal.

[gillis95]

You're body pulls more from it's fat stores if you have not eaten compared to working to burn what you just put in. That does not mean don't eat anything especially if you feel nauseated on an empty stomach. Also it's ideal (for best fat burning) to wok out in the morning..again you pull more from fat stores. Although we can't always do morning workouts so anytime of course is good.

[bunnyfoo]

I like to eat a little something before I start working out ... I usually have a WW snack bar, cereal bar or a piece of fruit like an apple. After I finish my workout, I usually have more to eat :)

[nativetxn]

Great question. I had never thought about this before.

[John In Illinois]

I always eat AFTER my workout. Otherwise I tend to not work as hard, because I am full.