What not to eat before a yoga class

Yoga teachers like to tell students not to eat at least two hours before class. This makes sense, since having food in your belly when you're inverting, twisting, and contorting is not only uncomfortable, but all that movement takes blood away from your digestive system, slowing digestion to a halt.

But if you simply must eat before yoga—two hours is a long time if you have a speedy metabolism!—your best bet is to avoid foods high in slow-moving fats and proteins. Read on...

Nuts and Seeds
While nuts and seeds are highly nutritious and nourishing, they are high in fat and protein and more likely to sit in the stomach while your body demands blood flow. Instead, reach for a handful of fresh raspberries, which will go down a lot easier.

Fried Food
We've all experienced how long it takes to digest foods like hot chips or onion rings. It can take hours until we feel hungry again. If it's going to sit in the stomach, it won't be fun on the yoga mat. Get the crunch factor in before practice—minus the discomfort—with some sliced cucumber instead.

Cheese
Cheese, even a vegan alternative, is going to be high in fat and protein, making it a food that's slow to digest. If you want to feel light and graceful in your yoga practice, say no to this one. Instead, reach for some dark chocolate (at least 65% cacao) to give you an energy boost before your practice.

Meats and Fish
Healthy meats and fish are also high in protein, and they will take their time getting through your digestive system. As a result, you're likely to feel heavy and sluggish on the mat. In lieu of meat, try having a few rice crackers or apple slices.

Avocado

While avocados are normally considered a superfood, their high fat content does take longer for your gut to process, and therefore they are best served après yoga. As an alternative, go for some grapefruit slices, celery sticks, or steamed veggies.

Oily Dressings, Dips, and Sauces
There are a lot of hidden oils and fats in seemingly healthy foods, like salad dressing, hummus, or other dips. These foods, while delicious, will sit idle in your belly. Instead, opt for fresh, seasonal fruits (preferably organic) to get your sweet fix and hunger satisfied.

Spicy Foods
It's never fun to be in a forward bend with heartburn. Even worse is tasting the dreaded "garlic burp" every time you flow from Cobra Pose to Downward-Facing Dog. Try a fast-digesting organic banana for some flavor, and get your curry after class!