Skip to content

The #1 Best Food To Eat Before Going for a Walk, Says Dietitian

Snack on this before taking a long morning stroll.

As the weather gets warmer and the days grow longer, going for a walk in the morning seems like the ideal way to start the day. And while going for a walk may not seem like it's doing much for your body, consistently taking a walk can actually help you to lose weight. Walking is considered a workout like any other, which means properly fueling your body before going for a long walk is crucial. So what would be considered the best food to eat before going for a walk?

We asked a registered dietitian to share with us the best food to eat before a walk. And while this particular type of food is good to have before a walk, it's also good before any other type of workout. (Related: 15 Underrated Weight Loss Tips That Actually Work)

"A healthy pre-workout snack can give you sustained energy so that you can maximize your workout and get the best results," says Lisa R Young, PhD, RDN, author of the book Finally Full, Finally Slim. "Some healthy carbs will give you energy and healthy fat or protein will help keep your blood sugar steady while exercising."

Not sure what types of snacks this could include? Young shares a few of the best workout snack combos you can try before going for a walk in the morning, afternoon, or even at dusk during a sunset stroll.

"I love whole grain crackers or rice cakes with one tablespoon of peanut butter," says Young, bringing in carbohydrates from the crackers and healthy fats from the peanut butter.

If you're looking for something portable, Young also recommends having an apple or pear with a handful of almonds.

If you have a little time at home before going on your long walk. Young also recommends enjoying a smoothie. "You can whip up a smoothie with berries, greens, Greek yogurt, and flaxseeds for a satisfying snack. For added flavor, add in peanut butter powder." Or try one of these 40+ Best-Ever Breakfast Smoothies!

Even if none of these snack combos appeal to you, Young still recommends combining a healthy carb (like a complex carb full of fiber) and a healthy fat or protein to keep your body energized and satisfied during your long walk ahead.

Get even more healthy tips straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter!

Kiersten Hickman
Kiersten Hickman is a freelance health and nutrition journalist. Read more about Kiersten
Filed Under