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Life's Too Short... so make the most of it! Try something new, eat something healthy, grow something beautiful, hug someone you love, move around a lot, and be kind to yourself. Melanie Cole, MS brings you the best tips from lifestyle and fitness experts to the best and brightest medical professionals.

Workouts: What to Eat Before & After

From the Show: Life's Too Short
Summary: In a conundrum about what to eat before you workout? We've got answers.
Air Date: 2/14/17
Duration: 14:21
Guest Bio: John P. Higgins, MD
Dr. John HigginsJohn P. Higgins, MD, MBA (Hons), MPHIL, FACC, FACP, FAHA, FACSM, FASNC, FSGC, is a sports cardiologist for the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and the Harris Health System.

His research interests include the effects of energy beverages on the body, and screening for underlying cardiovascular abnormalities in 12-year-olds (sixth graders), and steroid effects on the cardiovascular system.
Should you eat before you work out? What should you consume after?

Pre-Workout Tips
  • Be sure to hydrate before working out. Your body loses moisture when you sleep. Have a 16-ounce bottle of water 30-60 minutes before hitting the gym.
  • If you're hungry, have light protein or light carbs within an hour of your workout. Greek yogurt, a piece of fruit, or a nutritious protein bar can keep your stomach from growling while you work out.
  • Avoid energy drinks. You don’t need the caffeine or sugar crash.

Workout Tips
  • Hydrate while working out. Stop every 15-30 minutes for some water.
  • If you work out for more than an hour, a beverage with electrolytes may help you replenish.

Post-Workout Tips
  • Have another 16-ounce bottle of water 30-60 minutes after the workout. You’re still sweating and need to hydrate.
  • Have some carbs, protein and fats. Fruit and Greek yogurt are a great post-workout snack. A sandwich or wrap, whole grain cereal, or a hard boiled egg can also help replace what you lost. 
  • Aerobic workouts demand more carbs and fat for replenishment. Weight training requires more protein for recovery.
If you’re feeling sick or weakened during your workout, it’s time to call it a day. It's important to know your limits and avoid pushing too hard.

Listen as Dr. John Higgins joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share his best advice for workouts and nutrition.

Audio / Radio Segments