Celebrity fitness trainer Siddhartha Singh, who has worked with actor Tamannaah Bhatia, recently shared important advice for gym-goers about pre-workout nutrition. In a video posted on Instagram, the trainer explained that certain foods commonly eaten before exercising can actually reduce energy levels and affect workout performance.Sharing the video, Siddhartha highlighted three foods that people should avoid before hitting the gym. He explained that many individuals unknowingly consume items that slow digestion, cause bloating, or lead to sudden energy crashes during workouts.
The note in the video read, “3 Worst Foods to Eat Before a Workout. If you want better gym performance, what you eat before your workout matters. Many people unknowingly eat foods that slow digestion, cause bloating, or crash their energy mid-workout.”
Fried foods can slow digestion
According to Siddhartha, fried and greasy foods are among the worst options before exercising. He explained, “Fried foods have high fat, so they basically slow down digestion.”He added that slower digestion can lead to “sluggishness, cramping and discomfort” during a workout. High-fat foods can also trigger digestive distress while exercising, making it harder to maintain intensity.
High-fibre foods may cause bloating
While fibre is important for overall health, eating too much of it just before a workout may not be ideal. High-fibre foods take longer to digest and can cause discomfort during intense activity.Consuming them close to a workout can lead to issues such as bloating, gas, stomach cramps, nausea, and general discomfort, which may even force you to stop exercising midway.
Sugary foods can lead to an energy crash
Sugary snacks might provide a quick burst of energy, but Siddhartha warned that the effect does not last long. He explained, “These are going to give you a kick of energy when you eat them, but as soon as you reach the gym, there’s going to be an energy crash.”Such sudden drops in energy can leave you feeling fatigued, dizzy, or nauseous, especially when your workout begins to intensify.
What to eat instead before a workout
Instead of these foods, Siddhartha recommends meals that support sustained energy. He advised choosing high-carbohydrate, low-fat, low-fibre foods with moderate protein before a workout.Summing up his advice, he said, “At the end of the day, you want to eat things that give you energy in the gym and not the other way around. Eat a good meal and have fun in your next gym session.”
