Kickstart your fitness journey with the right foods. Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand, enhancing results and promoting recovery.

Eat Smart: Enhance Workout Results

According to TCM, aligning with your body’s natural rhythm matters. Eating 1-2 hours before exercising fuels you up. Opt for easily digestible carbs and moderate protein. Try oatmeal with nuts and bananas. Avoid cold foods to protect your "Spleen," like avoiding icy roads for a smoother journey. Learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle [here](/healthy-living/). Best pre-workout foods and energy sources

Fuel Up: Boost Your Energy

Before working out, eating the right foods can help you increase your energy levels. TCM suggests keeping your body in balance by eating foods that don’t dampen energy. Carbs like oatmeal keep energy steady, while proteins offer lasting fuel. Stay warm and energetic.

Refuel Promptly: Speed Up Recovery

After working out, your body craves nutrition. TCM advises replenishing "Qi and blood," like refilling gas after a long trip. High-protein foods, such as lean meats and tofu, aid muscle repair. Pair with veggies like broccoli for vital nutrients. Proper hydration is key, opt for green tea to cleanse and rejuvenate. Explore more about diet therapy [here](/herbal-medicine/diet-therapy/). Post-workout meals and recovery

Nourish Properly: Aid Your Muscles

Post-exercise nutrition is about recovery. Eating the right foods helps muscles recover faster. Tofu and lean meats are rich in protein, supporting your body's healing process. TCM emphasizes personalized approaches. Everyone’s body and environment differ. Adjust your diet to match your needs. Avoid extremes in consumptionβ€”mindful eating promotes harmony and optimal health. For more about TCM basics, click [here](/tcm-basics/). Exercise Eat Repeat entails choosing the right foods to see tangible results. Incorporating TCM tips helps you optimize both your physical and mental well-being. Feel energized and refreshed after every session. References: - Balancing nutrition with TCM principles can enhance workout performance. ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)) - The alignment of diet and exercise leads to effective energy replenishment. ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)) - Proper nutrients promote recovery and muscle strength. ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)) For a quick efficacy check: If you're always fatigued post-gym, immediately focus on a protein-rich snack. Feeling thirsty all the time? Sip herbal tea right after a workout for instant refreshment.