The Best Foods to Eat Before & After a Workout

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Okay, gym besties… let’s talk fuel! 🏋️‍♀️ You wouldn’t go on a road trip without gas in your tank, right? Same rule applies to your workouts. Whether you’re lifting heavy, crushing a HIIT session, or going on a yoga flow, what you eat before and after your sweat sesh can make or break your results.

Here’s the ultimate guide to what to eat before & after workouts so you can power through like a queen 👑 and recover like a pro.

🍳 What to Eat Before a Workout (Fuel Up Time 🚀)

Before a workout, you want carbs for quick energy + protein for muscle support. And yes, a little healthy fat is okay, but don’t overdo it or you’ll feel sluggish.

1. Banana + Peanut Butter

Bananas are basically nature’s pre-workout energy bars — loaded with potassium to prevent cramps. Pair with a spoon of creamy peanut butter for some protein + healthy fats.

When to eat: 30–45 mins before workout.

2. Oats + Berries + Protein Powder

Oats give you slow-release energy (no mid-workout crash), berries are packed with antioxidants, and protein powder helps keep your muscles happy.

When to eat: 1–2 hours before workout.

3. Greek Yogurt + Honey + Granola

A mix of fast and slow carbs, plus protein. Greek yogurt keeps you full, honey gives an energy kick, and granola adds crunch + carbs.

When to eat: 30–60 mins before workout.

4. Whole Wheat Toast + Avocado + Egg

This is your classic fit-girl fuel: whole wheat bread for carbs, avocado for healthy fats, and eggs for protein.

When to eat: 1–2 hours before workout.

5. Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, Protein Powder & Almond Milk

Quick, easy, and drinkable on the go. Use almond milk for creaminess without the dairy bloat.

When to eat: 30 mins before workout.

🍗 What to Eat After a Workout (Recovery Mode 🔋)

After a workout, it’s all about protein for muscle repair + carbs to restore energy.

6. Grilled Chicken + Sweet Potato

The OG fitness meal. Chicken breast gives you lean protein, and sweet potatoes help refill your glycogen stores.

7. Protein Shake + Banana

When you’re on the go, nothing beats a protein shake with a banana.

8. Salmon + Quinoa + Veggies

Salmon = omega-3 fatty acids for muscle recovery. Quinoa is a superfood carb + protein combo.

9. Egg Omelette with Spinach & Mushrooms

Packed with vitamins + lean protein. Add some mushrooms for extra fiber.

10. Cottage Cheese + Pineapple

Cottage cheese is slow-digesting protein — perfect for overnight recovery if you’re working out at night.

⚡ Quick Tips for Timing Your Meals

• Before workout: Eat 30–90 mins before.
• After workout: Eat within 30–60 mins for best recovery.
• Hydration: Don’t forget your water bottle.

💬 Final Takeaway

Fueling your workouts is just as important as the workouts themselves. Eat the right combo of carbs + protein + healthy fats, and your body will reward you with more energy, better performance, and faster recovery.