For those on an intermittent fasting regimen, a common question arises: "Does pre-workout break a fast?" Let's delve into this topic.
Intermittent fasting is appealing due to its simplicity. You don't need to track calories, carbs, or any other details. All you have to do is follow a schedule where you refrain from eating for certain periods of time. While the timing may vary, the basic principle remains the same:
- Eat during specific times.
- Fast during other times.
However, questions arise when your fasting schedule clashes with other fitness practices, such as consuming enough protein or taking supplements like Beachbody Performance Energize before a workout.
So, does pre-workout break a fast? And if so, how can you incorporate it into your intermittent fasting routine?
Understanding Fasting
According to RD Krista Maguire, fasting involves refraining from consuming food or drink. While water, plain tea, and black coffee are generally acceptable during a fast due to their lack of calories, all solid food is off-limits.
Intermittent fasting can take various forms, such as certain days with minimal food intake or time-restricted feeding, where you go without food for a set number of hours daily.
While intermittent fasting often leads to weight loss, its other potential health benefits are still under debate. Some proponents claim that prolonged fasts can enhance fat utilization and sugar clearance, but concrete evidence is lacking.
When it comes to heart health, blood sugar management, and gut health, the jury is still out, according to Maguire.
Effect of Beachbody Performance Energize on Fasting
From a technical standpoint, yes, Beachbody Performance Energize does break a fast as it contains 20 calories per scoop. However, the impact of consuming a small amount of calories during fasting remains uncertain.
While adhering strictly to fasting guidelines is ideal, consuming a pre-workout supplement like Beachbody Performance Energize may provide the energy needed for a productive workout session. This can potentially lead to burning more calories than those consumed through the supplement.
For those committed to fasting rigorously, working out at the beginning or end of a fasting window is recommended. Alternatively, opting for low-intensity exercises that rely less on stored carbohydrates can help maintain performance during fasting.
Despite the calorie content in Beachbody Performance Energize, the benefits it offers in terms of workout performance and overall fitness goals outweigh the minimal impact on fasting.
Consulting a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine is always advisable.
