If you’re partaking in an active lifestyle, your body needs more fuel than it would normally need. But this isn’t an excuse to tack on empty calories, as that would counteract the positive effects of exercising!

So, what foods to you need to eat in order to give your body enough energy to make it through a workout and ensure that you still feel good afterwards?

Complex Carbohydrates

You want to avoid simple carbohydrates like white bread, flour, and sugar, as they contain no beneficial nutrients. Complex carbohydrates are found in the fibers and starches of plant foods, so this includes vegetables and whole-grain breads and pasta. So complex carbohydrates give you essential nutrients and also provide your body with sugar for it to burn in a workout.

Healthy Fats

Fats provide your body with endurance and immunity when it comes to exercising and overall health. Focus on healthy fats like those found in nuts and seeds, avocado, and legumes like black beans and edamame. Even some greens tossed with extra-virgin olive oil gives you plenty of good fat. Having a diet that is too low in fat is not recommended for those who are especially active, as their bodies will not have enough energy to get through the day, forcing the body to work harder than it should, and that can negatively impact your immune system.

Protein

Protein builds muscle strength. You should focus on low-fat protein options, as the protein found in red meat is good, but the food itself can be too fatty if you eat it regularly. Instead, choose low-fat options like white meat (chicken or turkey), walnuts, almonds, and hummus.

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