When should I eat??

I just started exercising after having surgery in November.   Right now I'm doing Leslie Sansone's Walk Away The Pounds.  I have the Walk Blaster (step thingy) and 3 DVD's that I alternate.  For me, they're a good workout.    So my question is.....should I eat dinner before I work out or after?   Or does it not really matter.   It doesn't matter to me which I do first.....so I'd rather do it the way I'm going to burn more calories!   Thanks for any and all help! Chris

You are probably not eating much just yet, so in your case, it may not matter much!  (I'm a non-op) I personally do not like to have a full stomach.  For yoga, one should not eat at all 3 hours before a practice. Typically, the advice is that when you're digesting food, your blood flow is concentrated on that body function. I'd wait at least a half hour after eating. However, most trainers advise advise a very light snack, like a yogurt or small smoothie or half a protein bar before a morning workout. Cuz you've been fasting all night and eating a little will get your metabolism going. I have read that for persons with borderline blood sugar issues, they should walk after supper, again, at least a half hour after.  i'd say do what feels best for you!

Right now it probably doesn't matter too much.  Either way, you are increasing your metabolism, and it's going to burn off those calories. As you lose weight and become more fit, you will be able to pick up the pace, and as you start to work out longer and harder, you can help the process by eating a small meal of complex carbs (and maybe a small amount of protein) about an hour before you exercise, and then a protein drink right afterward (within the hour).  The protein is especially good for building muscles with weights (which you will want to do, later on).  And the complex carbs give you the energy to do a good workout.   Keep up the good work.

Thank you both so much!   This is why I love OH so much...I know I can get great advice!