Filed under: Advice, Fitness, Ask a Fitness Expert
Dear Sarah,
I like to run and I know that a good run requires energy, but I simply can’t run if I’ve eaten in the past two to three hours as I get a cramp. Even water gives me a cramp. Is there something wrong with me? Is it OK to run on a completely empty stomach such as first thing in the morning?
Thanks,
Cassandra
Dear Cassandra,
You’re right, running does require energy, so it’s very important to fuel your body for exercise and everyday healthy living.
Why you need to eat
Glucose, the primary source of fuel during exercise, is derived from eating carbohydrates. Fats (triglycerides) are your secondary source of fuel. Your brain, which is your control centre, must have glucose in order to operate properly, so when you exercise on an empty stomach, your brain will raid your muscles for the blood and glucose (muscle glucose is called glycogen) that is stored there. This causes a lot of stress on the body.
Continue reading Eating Before Exercising Gives Me a Cramp
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