Used to have an energy shot before working out

[era252]

I used to take a Five Hour Energy shot in the morning to help give me energy before I worked out, and am looking for a suitable replacement. I know that an actual Five Hour Energy is completely off-limits, but want to try and find a suitable replacement. 

 

For context, I can't have a full meal before working out without getting sick and sluggish. To try and comply with the suggestion of having some protein or fat before working out (as the "Whole30" book states that something is better than nothing pre-workout), I now have a piece of bacon before I work out, but even that can upset my stomach once I start.

 

I've tried using coconut water since starting and that has been okay, but not quite what I'm looking for. I'm also thinking of taking Solgar, B-Complex (which was recommended by Tom in another post) to help replace some of the energy shot.

 

I know this might become less of an issue as I continue in the program and my body gets more energy from foods, but since starting my workouts have shortened and become less effective. Can anyone recommend something that might help?

[Brewer5]

I used to take a Five Hour Energy shot in the morning to help give me energy before I worked out

 

but since starting my workouts have shortened and become less effective.

 

 

I have no solutions, beyond:  Try to relax and give your body some time to adjust.  Even if your workouts are less than they were before -- it really will be okay.

 

But I wanted to share a favorite quote I saw online:  "If you have to use stimulants to achieve it, how will you maintain it?"

 

Just something for you to think on.  What you've been doing is clearly not sustainable.

[jmcbn]

Have you tried a soft boiled egg for preWO - it's a favourite around here and if you esure the yolk is soft it will be MUCH easier to digest. Other than that some people do take a fat only in the form of a nut butter - the absolute ONLY circumstance where I'd suggest eating a nut butter on it's own, from the spoon....!!

The coconut water, whilst compliant, is really only for use during endurance events or for those whose occupation makes them more prone to dehydration. It's pretty much a light fruit juice and not ideal as a preWO as it will spike very quickly in the system, and keep your body relying on those sugars rather than learning to tap into your fat stores. Fat adaptation generally takes around 10-14 days depending on your previous diet so things may be difficult now (which is completely normal by the way), but they will get better.

What time of day do you work out, and how long/intense is the work-out considering you were taking a 5hr energy shot?