Are Carbs or Protein Better Before Exercise?

When you are looking to build the perfect exercise regimen, you have to ensure that you are eating the right food.  Unfortunately, this is not always as easily done as it is said.  Let’s look at one of the biggest questions that people ask when it comes to eating and exercise – whether it is better to eat protein or carbs before a big workout at the gym.

Surprisingly, there is no real choice to make.  If you want your body to reap the maximum benefit from your exercise, you need to be taking in both protein and carbs before a workout.  Ideally, a gram of protein for roughly every four grams of carbs is perfect.  The carbs will give your body the endurance and fuel to ensure that you are able to have a long workout. 

Of course, taking in the right kinds of carbs and protein is equally important.  Health store drinks are a little calorie-heavy if you are trying to lose weight, so you can use rolled oats, bananas, and whey protein just as effectively.  The key with carbs is to choose those with a low glycemic index.

Keep in mind that it is equally important to eat carbs and protein shortly after you exercise.  The carbs will replenish your body’s energy stores, while protein will help your muscles rebuild and repair the microscopic damage that exercise does that enables them to grow stronger ready for next time. 

When you strike the perfect balance with protein and carbs before and after every exercise regimen, you will find that you reap more benefit physically while ensuring a faster recovery and a more efficient workout.