10 Foods to Help Power Your Workout

Here are 10 great foods to keep you energized throughout your workout.

PIZZA: Stray from the fatty toppings (e.g. sausage and pepperoni) and opt for a low-fat cheese. Toss on a few healthier toppings like peppers and onions for additional vitamins and minerals. A low-fat slice of pizza provides both protein and carbohydrates.

OATMEAL: Oatmeal is one of the best sources of complex carbohydrates and provides a quick burst of energy that will propel you through your training session. Oatmeal is great with vitamin-rich blueberries and strawberries.

PASTA: Packed with 50 grams of carbohydrates per cup, pasta, mixed in with a little tomato sauce, is not only a tasty choice, but it is rich in muscle-building proteins as well. Try a whole grain pasta for the added nutritional benefit.

PEANUTS: Although peanuts are high in fat, they are also rich in nutrients like potassium, zinc, and vitamin E. Due to the high-fat content, consume peanuts in limited quantities.

YOGURT: Yogurt is sweet and tasty and provides a healthy blend of proteins and carbohydrates. Highly recommended are the low-fat versions.

POTATOES: Potatoes are perhaps the best source of carbs you’ll find, packing some 30 grams in your average 4-ounce potato.

EGGS: Eggs are loaded with protein and keep you feeling full throughout the day. One egg has only 75 calories. Studies have shown that people who consume eggs in the morning tend to consume up to 300 calories less per day.

PROTEIN DRINKS: The ideal protein drink, if you can blend it with a carbohydrate-rich powder, will consist of 25% protein and 60% carbs.

CHICKEN BREASTS: Chicken, in all forms, is loaded with protein, approximately 35 grams for a 4-ounce breast. Grill or bake your chicken without the fattening skin.

WATER: Your body simply cannot function properly without it. Drink the recommended 8 glasses per day if possible.

So, before running off to the gym or starting an intensive workout, be sure to power up!

Tomorrow is January 31st, one month after I started my New Year's resolution to work out more regularly. So far, I'm doing OK, but I still have some hurdles to conquer (time being one of them). How about you?

Have a great night!

Sandy Huard, President, Women's Health Supply International