Regular exercise promotes metabolism and helps normal blood flow, so it is an essential habit for preventing various diseases and controlling weight. In some cases, food is consumed in advance to receive the energy needed during exercise, and it is said that the state of the body and the effect of exercise during exercise vary depending on what type of food is consumed. It is said that while certain foods have a better exercise effect when consumed, they further reduce the exercise effect when consumed, and in severe cases, there are foods that cause abnormal symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea. So, today, let’s take a look at some of the foods that you should avoid as much as possible before exercising.
Foods not to eat before exercise
1. Salad
Salad eaten by mixing fresh vegetables, fruits, and meat has an excellent effect in preventing various diseases with the advantage of being able to fully consume various antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are abundant in the main ingredients. I’d say it’s better not to. This is because of the rich dietary fiber found in vegetables and fruits that are used in salads. Dietary fiber is decomposed by colonic microorganisms, and during this process, carbon dioxide, methane, and hydrogen are generated. It is said that the various substances produced in this way create a feeling of bloating and gas, which can make you feel uncomfortable during exercise. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid eating salads as much as possible before exercise.
2. Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and pecans are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, and have excellent effects on blood circulation and brain health. However, like the previously introduced nuts, nuts are rich in dietary fiber, so if consumed before exercise, digestion may be delayed and may put a strain on the stomach and intestines. And since this action causes bloating and gas, it should be avoided before exercise as much as possible.
3. Spicy food
Spicy foods made with ingredients such as red pepper and mustard are consumed a lot to increase appetite and relieve stress. Ingredients such as capsaicin, which have a pungent taste, take a long time to digest and can irritate the gastric mucosa. Therefore, it is not recommended to eat spicy foods before exercise.
4. Fried food
Fried foods, such as fried foods and french fries, are also in the group of foods that should be avoided before exercise. Fried foods take a long time to digest, which can put a strain on your stomach during exercise. In addition, it not only interferes with blood circulation by increasing the viscosity of the bloodstream, but also causes acid reflux by lowering the pressure of the esophagus and stomach, causing acid reflux, so it should not be consumed before exercise.
5. Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates such as wheat and white rice should also be avoided before exercise. Refined carbohydrates are less nutritious and high in calories, which can reduce the effectiveness of exercise, such as building muscle. In addition, refined carbohydrates are digested and absorbed by the body quickly, which leads to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels in the body and promotes insulin secretion. As a result, even with a small amount of exercise, the body quickly gets tired and feels tired.
6. Beans
Various types of soybeans contain abundant protein, minerals, and vitamins, so it is an essential food for health management, but it is recommended to be careful just before exercise. When you eat legumes, a lot of hydrogen and carbon dioxide are generated during the digestion process, so you may experience flatulence and pain or flatulence. Please note that not only soybeans, but also foods such as tofu made with soybeans as the main ingredient.
Other foods
Carbonated water and carbonated drinks, which drink a lot of unique refreshing sensation, are also foods that should be consumed before exercise. Drinking carbonated beverages before exercise can cause gas and stomach pain. In addition, if you consume refined sugars such as chocolate or candy before exercise, insulin secretion is stimulated, which can lead to the accumulation of sugar in the body rather than being used as exercise energy. Other foods with high salt content, such as stew, soup, and salted fish, have a high sodium content, which puts a strain on the kidneys and reduces the ability to excrete waste and reabsorb water, thus reducing the effectiveness of exercise. should be avoided.
