Reminder: Eat a Banana Before Exercise
Many people fear that eating before exercise will hinder weight loss, so they skip meals before working out. However, after just a short period of exercise, they often feel breathless, dizzy, and sweaty. Senior personal trainer Yang Jianxin from Beijing Qingniao Fitness Club points out that this is due to exercise-induced hypoglycemia. When the body lacks sufficient calories and blood glucose drops, such symptoms occur. Severe cases may result in fainting or temporary mental confusion.
If exercise-induced hypoglycemia occurs, what should be done? Some people sit down immediately and hug their abdomen; others lean forward against a wall. Although this may temporarily ease discomfort, both postures hinder blood circulation and are incorrect. The correct method is to stop exercising immediately, sit on a chair with back support, slightly recline the upper body. Then drink a sugary beverage immediately—common sports drinks or sugar water will do. Once symptoms subside, avoid continuing exercise and return home to rest.
Exercising without eating beforehand is wrong. Generally, one should eat staple foods like rice or bread about 1.5 hours before exercise to provide sufficient glucose. Alternatively, eating a banana or drinking a sugary beverage 30 minutes before exercise can effectively prevent exercise-induced hypoglycemia. Beginners should progress gradually, avoid prolonged intense exercise, and prevent hypoglycemia, exercise-related abdominal pain, or muscle and ligament strains.