The 7 Best Pre-workout Foods and Drinks

Ready to kick some butt at the gym? You can't expect your body to perform its best when it hasn't been properly fueled. Going to the gym on an empty stomach is a big no-no, but that doesn't mean you should nosh on some potato chips pre workout. Here's the best fuel for your body before you start to sweat.

1. Banana: The potassium in bananas helps to prevent cramping and has digestible carbs that are perfect for filling and fueling before a workout. Try this Kiwi Banana Protein Smoothie.

2. Eggs: If you're hitting the gym after breakfast, power up with a veggie omelet! Eggs are a great source of protein and will keep you full. Healthy veggies with your eggs only add to the value and give your body the nutrients it needs. Try this Skinny Greek Omelet or make on a hard-boiled egg!

3. Beet juice: Beet juice has recently been hailed for its healthy properties. It's great for increasing blood flow, which means more oxygen to the muscles.

4. Oats: Oats are full of fiber, which will gradually release carbs into your system as you exercise. This means your energy levels will stay up as you exercise and allow you to perform at top level the whole time. Try a healthy bowl of oatmeal or these Skinny Monkey Oat Cookies (made with oats, banana and peanut butter).

5. Apples with peanut butter: Apple slices with a smear of peanut butter are the perfect combo of carbs and protein! Natural carbs in fruit break down in the body and the tasty peanut butter has protein to build and repair muscle.

6. PB and Fruit Protein Balls: This is a great pre-workout snack. It has fiber, protein and carbs to power you up; plus, they're easy to pack and the taste great! Check out the recipe here.

7. Water: Water is very important for your body. You lose a lot during a workout, so it's important to stay hydrated both before and after you exercise! How much water do you need? Find out here.

What to avoid: Before your workout, don't go for fatty foods. Fat leaves the body slowly and will make you feel sluggish. Carbs are good before a workout, but get them from a healthy source. Carbs from sugars and candy will only leave you with a crash mid-workout.