Warmer days are here - it's time to get back into your exercise routine and eat the right foods while you're at it.

Eating the right food when you're physically active is essential

With the days getting warmer, many of us are keen to increase our physical activity - whether you're going to the gym a lot more, jogging or hiking, remember that fuelling your body with the right foods is essential for your energy levels. Vitality dietitian, Terry Harris recommends incorporating a wide range of healthy foods to your diet and actively limiting your intake of highly processed sugary drinks and foods high in added sugar (these are your sweets, chocolates, cake, biscuits). "For the coffee drinkers, match every cup of coffee with a glass of water". Not drinking enough water, having too much caffeine (more than 3-4 coffees a day) and having highly processed refined foods can make us feel sluggish which makes it less likely for you to feel like exercising. "And don't forget to time your meals and snacks if you are exercising at the end of the day," she adds. "It's important to sustain your blood sugar levels but avoid feeling full and heavy before exercising. Have a meal 2-3 hours before and a light snack (such as a fresh fruit and a handful of nuts) 30-60 minutes before. And when you are feeling sluggish, drink a glass of water and eat a fresh fruit if you are feeling peckish".

Pro tip: Remember to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

About Terry Harris

Head Dietitian: Discovery Vitality

Terry Harris has a Masters degree in Nutrition and is currently Head Dietitian of Vitality, Discovery's science-based wellness programme. Terry plays a key role in developing innovative health behaviour change programmes for Vitality, including the HealthyFood benefit, a global programme that provides incentives in the form of cash back on a variety of healthy foods as well as the HealthyDining benefit, which is designed to incentivize members to choose healthier meals when eating away from home.