Are some foods better than others to drive a fat burning walk? We asked one of our go-to-nutrients, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a board-certified sports dietist and co-author of Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, Whether there are certain foods that you should eat before you go that help you blow up belly fat. “No single food” melts “stomach fat, but some pre-walk-snacks can help support fat metabolism, stabilize blood sugar and keep energy up so that your walk is more efficient,” says the expert. Here are 7 foods that she recommends that you eat before you go to maximize fat loss.
Porridge
Before your morning walk, fuel up with a small portion of oatmeal. The large fiber source “provides slow digs of carbohydrates to fuel activity without nailing insulin,” says Collingwood. “Perfect for before a morning walk.”
Greek yogurt with berries
Another large protein-filled mini meal that you should think about before a morning walk is Greek yogurt with berries. “Protein plus antioxidants, plus good carbohydrates for energy,” says Collingwood. Try to stick to ordinary Greek yogurt instead of flavored, as the calories are high in the sweetened versions.
The banana with nut butter
If you do not have time for a meal, take a banana and add a spoonful nut butter. “Fast carbohydrates for energy, protein and healthy fat to keep you saturated,” says Collingwood.
Avocado bread
Collingwood also recommends a trendy breakfast: avocado toast, but make sure you make a healthy version. Use whole grain toast with your avocado for fuel but fat burning snacks. “Complex carbohydrates and cordial fat help you maintain energy during your walk,” says Collingwood.
Apple slices with almond butter
She also enjoys apple slices with almond butter, a good snack before the walk for every time of the day. What is so good about the combination? “Fiber plus healthy fat for even energy,” she says.
Nuts
A handful of nuts is another quick snack to keep you driven up and in fat burning mode for your walk. “Fast, portable protein and fat to prevent hunger in the middle of Walk,” says Collingwood.
Boiled egg with whole grain crackers
Her last recommendation is a boiled egg with a few rolling cakes. “Protein and complex carbohydrates, good for the morning or mid-afternoon,” she says. Expert tip: Cook a lot of eggs at the beginning of the week and hold them on hand for a quick fix of protein.
More tips
Collingwood has some more recommendations for blasting belly fat with walks. “Eat about 30-60 minutes before you go, depending on your tolerance,” she says. Also hydrate well, because “water is important for fat metabolism”, she notes. Finally, the portion size is important. “Too big snacks can make it uncomfortable,” she says.
