Looking For Pre Workout Energy?
Women always need more energy, especially when we prepare for a workout! Most pre workout supplements have scary ingredients and additives and frankly are made for bodybuilders. As a result, there are a lot of safety concerns about using them, especially for women. We all love choices so we’re sharing our favorite natural pre workout solutions to keep fitness fun and motivating.
So, why should you avoid pre workout supplements and energy drinks from the energy aisle at your favorite store?
Products like Cellucor C4, Six Star, ENGN, Red Bull, Monster, etc. are packed with loads of caffeine, artificial sweeteners, dyes and other harmful chemicals. And, they are known to cause an unhealthy rise in heart rate, blood pressure, GI issues, dehydration and insomnia.
While these might seem like a quick solution to your energy woes, the long term effects aren’t worth it!
A few stats from the NIH 1, 2 :
“Several studies have shown an increase in heart rate and arterial blood pressure after energy drink consumption. These findings were attributed to the ergogenic effects of the caffeine content of the energy drink. In addition, significant cardiac manifestations such as ventricular arrhythmias, segment elevation and prolongation have been documented following energy drink overconsumption.”
“Individuals usually develop symptoms of caffeine intoxication in doses equal to or above 200 mg. Symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset, muscle twitching, restlessness, and periods of inexhaustibility.”
“The caffeine in energy drinks has been shown to enhance diuresis. Therefore, energy drinks should be avoided during prolonged exercise in a hot environment because of the potential for dehydration.”
The good news is there ARE natural pre workout foods and drinks that DO boost energy without the crash or scary side effects!
Enjoy this fast and simple list that will help you energize for your next workout!
It’s important to note that every single person is different. Some individuals exercise well in a fasted state, like before their first meal of the day or after a longer fast. Others perform better about an hour or so after eating a small meal. Remember, there is no right or wrong time of day.
Our Favorite Pre Workout Solutions:
Momsanity BCAAs:
Regardless of your body’s food preferences, our FAVORITE pre-workout energy boost is Momsanity BCAAs.
BCAAs are Branch Chain Amino Acids- and are composed of leucine, valine and isoleucine. These three amino acids are unique because they are absorbed directly through the bloodstream and don’t have to be digested. BCAAs are great energy builders. And the best part is they are easy on the stomach (no digestion required) and calorie free.
Here’s what a 2013 study revealed about the effect of BCAAs on energy and exercise performance. Study participants were college-age males divided into two groups and asked to cycle to the point of exhaustion. One group was given BCAAs while the other group was given a placebo.
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Participants who were given BCAAs had lower blood levels of serotonin versus participants who were given the placebo. Serotonin is a chemical that plays a role in exercise fatigue.
- Participants who were given BCAAs also had improved metabolism and lower levels of indicators of muscle damage.
These results led researchers to conclude that BCAAs also improve exercise performance. 3
What’s great about Momsanity BCAAs is they contain NO stimulants, artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors or other harmful ingredients. PLUS they taste great. Available in four flavors, Momsanity BCAAs are sure to satisfy. Just add them to your shaker bottle about 30 minutes before your workout and sip.
We recommend adding one scoop to 20 oz or more of water about 30 minutes before your workout. You can also enjoy Momsanity’s BCAA drink mix for an energy boost at any time of the day. Suggested dose is 1 scoop per day per 50 pounds of bodyweight. This means that a female who weighs 150 lbs can safely consume up to 3 scoops per day.
Momsanity Mom Fuel:
Feeling hungry before your workout, but don’t like eating before a workout? Enter Momsanity’s Mom Fuel.
Each scoop of Mom Fuel delivers 20 grams of dairy-free protein, including 15 grams of veggie protein plus 5 grams of collagen. And, Mom Fuel protein powders come in 2 delicious flavors: Vanilla or Dutch Chocolate. Just add a scoop to a shaker bottle full of water for a quick pre workout boost!
Need something a little heavier?
Overnight Oatmeal:
One of our FAVORITE morning pre workout meals is overnight oats. This recipe is a perfect blend of complex carbohydrates and protein to help maintain blood sugar balance while fueling your body. And the varieties are endless! For example, you can always add a little nut or seed butter or optional fresh fruit.
Love Oats? They really ARE great for your pre workout meal. Here’s another fun recipe that you can make in your crockpot OR instant pot.
Slow Cooked Overnight Oatmeal:
Use either Vanilla or Dutch Chocolate Mom Fuel to make it your perfect solution.
Energy Bites:
Energy bites are another delicious and fast pre workout snack. They’re another good source of protein and carbs in a tasty bite-sized treat.
Cookie Dough Power Snack:
Who doesn’t love Cookie Dough? You can quickly whip up a perfect, easy to digest, pre workout snack that is sure to satisfy. Try substituting non dairy chocolate milk for even more chocolatey goodness!
Fruit & Nut or Seed Butter:
An apple with nut or seed butter is always a good snack. It’s a perfect way to get your body ready for a workout! If you’ve got Momsanity’s Crave on hand be sure to try this delightful pre workout energy booster!
And don’t forget! These recipes are also great for post workout nutrition too.
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health - National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, July 2018.
- National Institutes of Health - National Library of Medicine, Nutrient Journal, September 2019.
- National Institutes of Health, Journal of Exercise, Nutrition and Biochemistry, November 2013.