Top Five Foods You Should be Eating

Now we know the top ten fitness mistakes and we’re making the most of our gym time, right? Well, what happens for the hours spent outside of the gym? Diet is a huge part of your fitness equation.  What you eat before and after your workout can make or break your sweat sessions. So take my advice and load up on these foods next time your grocery shopping. Your body will thank you!

1.Cottage Cheese - This wonder food is very filling meaning you’ll eat less but feel full.  It is high in protein and a great source of riboflavin and calcium. It’s also low in calories with fat-free versions ranking in at 123 calories in a full cup (this type may be hard to find) and low-fat versions (1%) coming in at 163 calories a cup.  I happen to like my plain but others may wish to mix with fruit.

2.Almonds - The best little pick-me-up ever.  Keep them plain though-no salt or roasting allowed.  Since they are relatively high in calories, it’s wise to refrain from pigging out on them.  Keep your serving at 1 oz (about 23 whole almonds) and you’ll use up 164 calories.  Toss them on a salad (of veggies or fruit) or simply snack on them alone as I do.

3.Egg whites - One can NEVER eat too many egg whites.  They are the perfect food.  A small country should be named after them.  Here’s the deal; buy only egg whites in the carton which ingredients state only 100% egg whites.  No coloring or spices should be included in the ingredients because then you are not getting a true and natural product.  One cup contains 120 calories and a whopping 24 grams of protein!  They fill you up quick too.  The variations of this food are endless.  Omelets can include any number or veggies, you can use spices, and even ketchup if that’s what you like. Surprise surprise - I like mine plain (with a dash of salt and pepper).

4.Protein shakes - My favorite post-workout snack.  One should be consumed within an hour after working out.  Waiting decreases any benefits.  I generally drink two a day. Now, a lot of shakes are pure sugar with little vitamins or protein.  Watch for ones with the lowest calories and the highest grams of protein.  Low-carb versions are also on the market to help keep sugar down.  Generally, chocolate flavor is safe.  I mix mine with a tad of skim milk, ice cubes, and a banana.

5.Oatmeal - But only the plain kind.  Cinnamon bun oatmeal doesn’t count (sorry!). Old fashioned oats are best.  To me, this is the ideal breakfast to eat before working out. A little should fill you up and fuel you for your day.  Nope, I can’t stomach this one plain. I like to squeeze a small amount of sugar-free syrup on the oatmeal to appeal to my sweet tooth.  Fruit is also an option.   

~~~ Jen
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