Should You Exercise on an Empty Stomach? Pros and Cons to Consider
Have you ever wondered whether it’s better to exercise on an empty stomach or not? Well, wonder no more. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of exercising on an empty stomach, so you can decide if it’s best for you.
What Happens When You Exercise on an Empty Stomach?
When you exercise on an empty stomach, your body doesn’t have any readily available energy to fuel your workout. Instead, your body relies on stored glycogen and fat to provide the energy you need to power through your workout.
The Pros of Exercising on an Empty Stomach
One of the main benefits of exercising on an empty stomach is that your body is more likely to tap into fat stores for energy. This can be beneficial if your goal is to lose weight or improve your body composition.
Moreover, exercising on an empty stomach has been shown to increase aerobic capacity, which means you’ll be able to exercise for longer periods of time without getting tired. This is because your body becomes more efficient at using oxygen when you exercise on an empty stomach.
The Cons of Exercising on an Empty Stomach
Exercising on an empty stomach can also have some downsides. For one, it can lead to low blood sugar levels, which can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Moreover, exercising on an empty stomach can cause you to lose muscle mass, as your body may start breaking down muscle tissue for energy instead of fat. This can be particularly detrimental if your goal is to build or maintain muscle mass.
What Should You Eat Before Exercising?
If you do decide to exercise on an empty stomach, you may want to consider taking a pre-workout supplement to help boost your energy levels and improve your performance.
Alternatively, if you prefer to eat before exercising, it’s recommended that you consume a meal or snack that is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. This will help provide your body with the energy it needs to power through your workout without causing any digestive issues.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, whether or not you should exercise on an empty stomach depends on your personal preferences and goals. If your goal is to lose weight, improve your aerobic capacity, or simply try something new, exercising on an empty stomach may be worth a try.
However, if you’re prone to low blood sugar or muscle loss, or if you simply prefer to eat before exercising, it’s perfectly fine to do so. The most important thing is to listen to your body and do what works best for you.
