Question from Erika Gottesman: I usually go to the gym first thing in the morning and run for about 30 minutes. What is a good thing to eat before I go? Or, should I not eat til after?
Answer from Emily Splichal: You definately want to have something small to "jump start" your metabolism so your body can provide you with the proper energy for your run. When we sleep our body goes in a "starvation mode" causing our metabolism to slow as we sleep. This is one of the reasons weightloss experts always say to eat breakfast.
Answer from The Exercist: If your workout consists of only 30 minutes, and you can not eat, eat afterwards. The longer the workout, the more fuel your body will need to energize you to the finish. More than a 30 minute run eat before for sure. Eat at least 20 minutes before your workout to include a small amount of complex carbohydrates. Fruits and grains are the best options of fuel before a workout as they are digested by the body the fastest. Experiment with what foods work best for your body as each body works its best differently.