What do fitness gurus eat, and what do they recommend for others?
Fitness gurus have mastered snacking before and after exercise. Just like everyone else, they face cravings throughout the day.
Try their tips the next time you have a long day at the gym or at work:
1. Eggs. Hardboiled eggs are one of the best snacking options. They’re inexpensive and easy to make ahead of time. They’re also filling, so they can satisfy cravings and give you energy.
* Many fitness gurus rely on eggs to get through a busy day.
* Try slicing hard boiled eggs and adding sliced tomatoes or avocados on top. Sprinkling them with a little salt improves the flavor.
2. Precut vegetables. No one wants to gnaw on an entire celery stick or large bell pepper. Try chopped carrots, bell peppers, and celery. Also, consider having small pieces of broccoli or cauliflower. Wash and cut vegetables for a healthier snacking option.
* You can keep the precut vegetables in ziploc bags or small plastic containers. You can also purchase precut veggies in the store, but you save money when make your own.
3. Granola. Instead of buying granola in stores, many fitness gurus make their own version. They prefer the homemade granola because they can control all the ingredients and balance the nutrients.
* A healthy granola mix includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
* Try making your own granola with peanuts, almonds, cashews, raisins, oats, and dried cranberries.
* Another popular granola mix includes sunflower seeds, oats, chia seeds, flax seeds, and raisins.
* Experiment with different nuts and seeds to create your favorite.
4. Peanut butter. Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats that are filling. From adding peanut butter to smoothies to eating it directly from the jar, many fitness gurus include it in their snacks.
* Consider making a bread-free peanut butter sandwich that many fitness gurus adore. Simply slice a banana into long, thin strips and add peanut butter in between.
5. Almonds. Almonds also provide protein and healthy fats. A handful of almonds can stop cravings and provide an energy boost. Many fitness gurus rely on almonds for a quick burst of energy during the day.
* You can buy small bags of almonds, or use ziploc bags to make smaller portions from a bulk bag. Stuff them into a bag or purse that you use during the day and snack on them whenever you get hungry or feel your energy waning.
6. Emergency protein bars. There are many brands of protein bars on the market, and fitness gurus rely on them, although they’re not in agreement about which ones are the best. You’ll have to experiment and find one that you prefer. Focus on finding protein bars that are low in sugar and preservatives.
* Pay attention to the ingredient lists on the back of the package. Try to avoid the ones that have ingredients you can’t pronounce or spell. Simple ingredients are healthier. The healthiest bars will also have a short list.
* Try different flavors to find a favorite. Most energy bars are available in chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, and fruit flavors. They all have different tastes and textures.
* You can also try baking your own energy or protein bars with healthy ingredients.
Fitness gurus know that the fuel you use for the body matters. They understand that snacking is a vital part of a successful diet and exercise regimen. Try their favorite snacking tips before planning your next gym session or long workday.