Don't Exercise on an Empty Stomach

Put some gas in your tank before starting your workout. Carbohydrate is the preferred fuel for exercise, so 30 to 60 minutes before exercise eat something that is easily digested and carbohydrate-rich. Great pre-workout snacks are:

• Low-fat fruit yogurt 
• A banana 
• A slice of 100 percent whole grain toast with fruit preserves 
• A small bowl of oatmeal with sliced strawberries or apples

Before workouts lasting 90 minutes or more, a more substantial pre-workout meal is appropriate to help your stomach feel satisfied throughout the exercise session. A balanced meal before a workout could be:

• Low-fat fruit yogurt with a sprinkle of granola and sliced pecans 
• Sliced banana and natural peanut butter spread on 100 percent whole grain crackers 
• Scrambled eggs with veggies and a slice of 100 percent whole grain toast with fruit preserves 
• A bowl of oatmeal with sliced fruit and a side of cottage cheese or chicken sausage