Meal before workout session
Alicja Kowalska
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Diets Premium Medical Expert • 18.03.2026
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Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian:
This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| CLINICAL KNOWLEDGE MAGAZINE Dietetics | min read 3 min |
| Diets Premium Medical Expert Alicja Kowalska | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 18.03.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Exercise without prior meal consumption is allowed only in exceptional circumstances Error! Are you starving yourself before training to burn more fat? Check what you should eat best before starting the workout.
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Why should we ingest food prior to training?
The intake of food prior to training has a beneficial impact on the outcomes achieved during the workout. By providing the body with a source of energy, we can perform each exercise with enhanced precision and augment the number of repetitions. Paradoxically, by delivering calories, we facilitate the body's burning of a greater volume of fat. Consuming food before training also accelerates subsequent muscle regeneration, safeguarding the body from overexertion and dehydration.
Impact of fasting exercises
Fasting exercises have become a trend in the fitness industry. They trigger the process of muscle catabolism, leading to the loss of muscle tissue rather than fat tissue. Regular physical activity performed in a state of hunger can lead to an unfavorable distribution of muscle and fat tissue. Fasting exercises can also lead to fainting and overtraining. During exercise, for example, while running, most of the blood is directed from the kidneys, liver, and other organs to the leg muscles where it is most needed. In this way, the remaining glycogen reserves are transported to the muscles, which can interrupt blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of fainting. In addition, the efficiency of calorie burning can be reduced. Fasting exercises can also lead to unhealthy eating habits.
What should be consumed prior to exercise?
Approximately 2-3 hours prior to commencing workout, it is recommended to consume a meal consisting of various nutrients, specifically those rich in carbohydrates, which can extend the duration of training. At present, it is of paramount importance to consider the intake of an adequate amount of carbohydrates and proteins in the diet of athletes. It is not to be overlooked that the oxidation of fatty acids is optimal with moderate intensity physical activity (around 60% VO2 max), however, it significantly decreases when a higher physical exertion is required. In such scenario, the oxidation of carbohydrates serves as an additional energy source. It is suggested to eat cereal products such as whole-grain bread, cereal porridge, oat flakes, pasta. Furthermore, it is necessary to provide the body with protein, which enables muscle tissue growth, minimizes protein breakdown after training, and accelerates muscle regeneration. A substantial amount of this nutrient is found in natural yogurt, cottage cheese, fish, eggs, legume seeds. Moreover, it is equally significant as providing nutrients to the body, that proper hydration is ensured before training.
What to avoid before exercise?
Prior to commencing exercise, it is recommended to avoid consuming heavy and hard-to-digest dishes. Individuals planning to engage in physical activity should avoid fried meals with high fat and salt content. It is also advisable to avoid products that cause bloating, such as cabbage, beans, peas, and other legume seeds. It is not recommended to consume food before exercise that can remain in the stomach, as this can lead to discomfort and negatively affect training results. The body must be able to digest food before engaging in physical activity, as otherwise, undesirable consequences may occur. However, it is worth remembering that what is beneficial for one person may not be beneficial for another, and each body has individual preferences.
Is it the appropriate moment to consume a pre-workout meal?
Ideally, one should consume a meal 2-3 hours prior to exercise. It is not recommended to consume carbohydrate-rich meals approximately 30-45 minutes before exercise, as this can lead to insulin release. As insulin levels rise, blood glucose levels decrease, which can weaken the body. However, if someone has an intense workout ahead, it is beneficial to consume carbohydrates just before or during physical activity. Physical exertion can slow down insulin production, and muscle activity without it increases intramuscular glucose transport. It is advisable to consume the meal in peace and chew each bite carefully. This aids digestion and prevents, for example, bloating or nausea during exercise.
Alicja Kowalska
Diets Premium Medical Expert
Member of the Diets Premium clinical editorial board. Specializes in medical diet therapy, metabolic health, and nutritional planning.
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