Walking is a great way to burn fat and improve overall health, but did you know that the foods you eat before a walk can make a big difference in how effectively you burn fat? Nutritionist Tara Collingwood, a Board-Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, shared some insights on the best foods to eat before a fat-burning walk. Here are seven foods she recommends to maximize fat loss:
1. Oatmeal:
Before your morning walk, fuel up with a small serving of oatmeal. Oatmeal is a great source of fiber that provides slow-digesting carbs to fuel your activity without spiking insulin levels. It’s an excellent choice for a pre-walk snack, especially before a morning walk.
2. Greek Yogurt with Berries:
For a protein-packed mini meal, try Greek yogurt with berries. This combination provides protein, antioxidants, and good carbs for energy. Opt for plain Greek yogurt to avoid the high calories in sweetened versions.
3. Banana with Nut Butter:
If you’re short on time, grab a banana and add a spoonful of nut butter. This quick snack provides quick carbs for energy, protein, and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and satisfied during your walk.
4. Avocado Toast:
Avocado toast has become a trendy breakfast choice, but make sure to opt for a healthy version using whole-grain toast. The combination of complex carbs and heart-healthy fats in avocado will help you maintain energy levels during your walk.
5. Apple Slices with Almond Butter:
Enjoy apple slices with almond butter as a pre-walk snack. This combination provides fiber and healthy fats for steady energy levels, making it a great option for any time of the day.
6. Nuts:
A handful of nuts is a quick and portable snack that will keep you fueled up and in fat-burning mode during your walk. Nuts provide protein and healthy fats to prevent mid-walk hunger pangs.
7. Boiled Egg with Whole Grain Crackers:
For a protein and complex carbs combination, try a boiled egg with a few whole-grain crackers. This snack is suitable for morning or mid-afternoon walks and is an easy way to get a quick fix of protein.
In addition to these food recommendations, Collingwood offers some additional tips for blasting belly fat with walking. It’s essential to eat your snack about 30-60 minutes before walking, depending on your tolerance. Hydrating well is also crucial, as water is essential for fat metabolism. Lastly, pay attention to portion sizes, as too large a snack can make walking uncomfortable.
By incorporating these pre-walk foods and tips into your routine, you can optimize your fat-burning potential and enjoy a more effective walking workout. Remember to choose foods that provide a balance of nutrients to fuel your body and support your fitness goals.