Muscle Food

Remember the story about Goldilocks and those pesky three bears—too hot, too cold, just right? Well, health experts say that same theory applies to getting in shape, because how you fuel your body before and after a workout has to be planned...“just right.”

If you gorge before a workout, you may feel sluggish or nauseated, and if you skip a meal, you may be too weak to complete your exercises. Health and fitness expert Kathy Kaehler says ideal pre-workout food choices include high-carbohydrate, low-fat snacks, such as a banana with yogurt; a whole-wheat toasted bagel with fruit spread; or a quick bowl of instant oatmeal. Post workout, give your body a good combination of carbs and protein, in the form of a peanut butter sandwich (hold the jelly), a handful of nuts or a fruit smoothie.

Kaehler recommends that your food be mostly digested before you exercise. This will vary for each individual, but keep in mind that large meals can take hours to process in your body, while small snacks can digest much quicker. As always, be sure to drink lots of water before, during and after a workout to avoid dehydration.

We want to know: What are your favorite pre- and post workout foods? [MSNBC]