Why You Shouldn't Have Carbonated Drinks Before A Workout

Consuming carbonated drinks before a workout is a big no-no, according to Eat This, Not That!. Soda, sparkling water, and energy drinks are all beverages that you want to avoid prior to a serious sweat session. If not, you may not have the most energized, effective, or pleasant workout. 

Though sparkling water is as hydrating as still water, all those bubbles can cause gas and bloating — neither of which you want to experience before you hit the elliptical, yoga mat, or HIIT class. And sipping an energy drink pre-workout may seem like a good idea to give you a boost of stamina, but all of that sugar and caffeine can lead to cramping, headaches, and dehydration (per Eat This, Not That!). When it comes to fizzy soda, stay away from that too. "The carbonation can slow 'gut emptying,' so you don't hydrate as efficiently," sports dietitian Leslie Bonci told Eat This Not! (via Mashed). "Drinking soda before exercise adversely affects hydration since it can take longer for fluid to make its way through the digestive tract to the exercising muscles," she explains. In other words, guzzling soda can get you dehydrated and not give you the energy boost you need.

Now that you know what not to drink, let's take a look at what beverages are ideal for pre-workout.

Do you want to know what's best to get you going? In a word: water. Mayo Clinic states that drinking 2 to 3 cups of plain water two to three hours before exercising will help ensure your body has the proper amount of fluids needed to power through a workout. They also recommend drinking 1/2 to 1 cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes while you're working out, and replenishing electrolytes with a sports drink if you're active for over an hour. And don't forget to drink up when your workout is finished. 

If water doesn't cut it for you, Men's Health says to be sure to there are certain ingredients in your pre-workout supplements. Creatine monohydrate is good for increasing muscle power and BCAA's are known for helping with endurance. Taurine is a good ingredient as it metabolizes fats and fights oxidative stress. B vitamins can help with energy and blood production. Lastly, NO2-boosters such as arginine and citrulline are recommended for their ability to help blood flow easier.