Pre- and Post-Workout Healthy Snacks

It is essential to understand what your body needs prior to workout and after exercise. Too much of any food or snacks pre- and post-workout is not beneficial for your health.

• Mixed nuts are one of the best healthy snacks to consume before and after heavy exercises. Mixed nuts like almonds, cashews, pistachios, raisins, etc., are a healthy source of energy and has essential healthy fats. These nuts contain a high amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber. In addition, there is an adequate amount of vitamins and mineral present in these nuts. Before starting any workout, the body needs a good amount of carbohydrates so that your body gets fueled up for any heavy physical activity. Hence, mixed nuts can be useful at this time. After you finish working out, your body goes into recovery mode where your muscle tissues begin to replenish and rebuild. This is the most critical period where your body needs adequate amounts of proteins and carbohydrates, which can be quickly refilled by mixed nuts. Hence, I always recommend people to keep a pack full of nuts handy.

• Fruits are also the best snacks, especially before starting any strenuous work. Just eating an apple before starting workout will provide your body adequate amounts of carbohydrates, which will act as fuel during your exercise. Fruits are easy to digest and easy to consume.

• Plenty of water or vitamin water is an essential part of your activities. Just by drinking a few glasses of water before, after, and during a workout will definitely prevent dehydration, which is mainly seen after a strenuous workout. In addition, vitamin water will provide your body with minerals and essential vitamins that are required after heavy work. If you are a runner, you should consume a sip of water every now and then, as this will prevent the soreness of your throat which is mainly caused by extensive running and will keep you hydrated. Thus you will be able to perform well.

You can mix and match these snacks with something else that you like. For example, many people would add mixed nuts with yogurt or drink fruit juice instead of vitamin water. You can definitely try making your own recipe and see what suits your body. Just make sure you consume the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and fats before and after working out.