Have Your Workouts Stopped Working?

Your Growling Stomach Is Interrupting Your A.M. Jog

If you're going to get your heart pumping for at least 30 minutes in the morning, have a snack first, says Christine Rosenbloom, PhD, the sports dietician for Georgia State University athletics. You've been fasting all night, so you need some carbohydrates to top off your depleted glycogen stores. The ideal snack will be low in fat and protein, which take longer to digest, and have about 30 grams of carbohydrates. Rosenbloom recommends a tube of energy gel, a packet of instant oatmeal made with water, one cup of dry cereal or a plain mini-bagel. Wash your choice down with a four-ounce glass of water. She says your body will be able to convert these carbs into energy if you eat 15 to 30 minutes before your workout.

Read more: The best things to eat before working out