Why is eating right before exercising discouraged?

Eating right before exercising is discouraged primarily because it can hinder blood flow to the working muscles. When food is consumed, the body directs blood to the stomach and digestive organs to help with the process of digestion. This can reduce the amount of blood flow available to the muscles that need it during exercise, potentially impacting performance and increasing the risk of discomfort, such as cramping.

During physical activity, especially intense exercise, muscles require an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients delivered by the blood. If a significant amount of blood is diverted away from the muscles due to digestion, it can lead to reduced efficiency and effectiveness during a workout.

While bloating can occur from eating too close to exercise and may deter some individuals from working out comfortably, it is the impact on blood flow that is the primary concern when considering performance and safety during exercise. Hydration is also critical, but eating does not inherently limit hydration potential; rather, it’s the timing and type of food consumed that can influence hydration levels. Additionally, energy efficiency can be affected by a variety of factors, including the timing of meals in relation to workouts, but again, the key issue here relates to how digestion competes for blood flow during physical activity.