Regular exercise is integral to good health, mental and emotional wellness, according to MayoClinic.com. Eating before exercising could give you increased energy levels that may improve your workout, although you may risk an upset stomach depending on the type of exercise you are performing. However, high impact sports, yoga, hula-hooping and energetic dancing do not mix well with a full stomach and are best performed on an empty stomach or after eating a light meal. Certain yoga exercises are recommended only on an empty stomach.
Fasted Cardio
Fasted cardio is the name given to cardio exercises performed after period of not eating -- especially directly upon waking. After you wake up in the morning your stomach is empty and the body is in a state of mild fasting. The arguments for and against fasted cardio are conflicting. According to Dr. Lonnie Lowry, performing light to moderate cardio in the morning for 45 to 75 minutes helps to burn more calories because of the lowered insulin levels present in the body in its fasting state. In a roundtable discussion, David Barr counters that any type of fasting causes the body to break down muscles tissue in order to raise protein levels. Barr argues that exercise on a empty stomach is counterproductive. More research needs to be completed to give a conclusive argument about the merits of doing cardio exercises on an empty stomach.
Empty Stomach Yoga
Yoga is an exercise system that is practiced appropriately on an empty stomach. There are several reasons behind the recommendation to eat only one to two hours prior to yoga practice. Many yoga postures either invert or twist the body in ways that would be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous with a full stomach. Yoga twists compress and release along the digestive tract and could move waste products in the wrong direction. Also, the energy and blood flow that is used to digest food can be used to support your yoga practice when you have an empty stomach.
Uddiyana Bandha
Uddiyana bandha is a yoga pose that should only be performed on an empty stomach. This pose strengthens the muscles of the abdomen and increases the blood flow to the area. It can also help to improve digestion. To perform uddiyana bandha, stand upright with your back slightly rounded and your hands on your knees. Inhale deeply and exhale forcibly. Immediately after the exhale, draw the muscles of the abdomen in and up towards the spine. Hold your breath for 5 to 15 seconds and release the abdominal muscles. Breathe normally and repeat. Do not practice uddiyana bandha if you have a history of stomach or intestinal ulcers, high blood pressure, glaucoma, hernia, heart disease or if you are pregnant or menstruating.
Considerations
Always speak to your doctor before starting an exercise routine. If you have hypoglycemia or diabetes and are concerned about your blood sugar levels, please ascertain whether exercising on an empty stomach is appropriate for your condition.
Member Comments