Believe it or not, what you eat before and after your workout has an impact on your overall performance and energy level. In order to perform and feel your best while exercising, it is important to incorporate a variety of healthy foods into your diet.

Planning your meals before and after you exercise can help you get in a good workout without feeling drained. Here are some tips on what to eat to maximize your workout.

Balance your meals

Two to three hours before your workout, eat a meal that contains a mix of carbohydrates, fat and protein. This mix of macronutrients will give you energy and keep you from feeling hungry shortly after eating. Try a turkey burger with Swiss cheese on a whole grain bun or chicken pasta salad with grated Parmesan cheese.

Go for energy packed snacks

Snacks that will keep you fueled during your workout consist mostly of carbohydrates with a little protein. These snacks should be consumed no less than an hour before your workout and are also ideal to eat post-workout. Yogurt with granola or crackers with peanut butter are two good choices.

If you’re hungry immediately before

Easily digestible snacks like crackers or applesauce are what you should eat if you’re hungry immediately before your workout. Sugary snacks such as candy or fruit juice are a good option if you’re planning on doing a cardio session such as kickboxing, running or swimming.

So practice these tips and eat well for a better workout.