Why it’s a good idea to eat before a morning workout

Still, there are definitely benefits to fueling your body before banging out a few miles or a solid strength workout. Luckily, nutritionists are here to help you figure out how and when to eat so you can crush your workouts every time (you know, without feeling like you're going to vom). It will likely help your performance, though it does depend on a few factors including: your individual needs, the type of exercise you’re going to do, your ability to digest food, and if you have time to eat afterward, says Mary Jane Detroyer, RD and ACE-certified personal trainer. Unless you restore your glucose supply, you're more likely to feel sluggish and fatigued sooner,” says Torey Armul, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “Some people consider exercising in a fasted state the ‘fat burning zone,’ because the body turns to fat for fuel when glucose is not sufficient,” says Armul. Try these options from both experts: If you can only stomach a small snack… If you want more of a meal… Keep in mind, carbs are the most important factor to fuel your workout and keep your energy up while you sprint or crank out strength reps, says Detroyer. Watch: Health Beat: Eating before early workout helps burn carbs (Baltimore Sun) That depends on how well you digest the food, says Detroyer. To play it safe, though, go for simple carbs (think: a banana or peanut butter toast)—most people can tolerate them without nasty stomach pains, says Armul. It might take a few tries to figure out what’s best for your body.  You still need carbohydrates after your workout, but protein is the most important nutrient for muscle recovery and repair, says Armul.