Need some nutrition advice

The best time to get in my swims during the week is at 5 am. I am definately a morning person and always have been, but swimming early has been just down right draining me. On the weekends I swim in the afternoon and feel so much more energized. I assume this is because of nutrition. I eat a good healthy meal at night. Then on swim days I wake up at 4 am and then drive 35 minutes away to the pool. The only calories I get in is a gatorade about 5-10 minutes before the workout. I am just so concerned about eating before my swim workout. I could wake up a little earlier and eat something, but do any of you have any suggestions as to what. I really believe I need to refuel the tank, but I dont want to over do it. This morning the natatorium had changed from 2 sets of 25 yard lanes to one set of 50 meter lanes in preparation of this weekends swim meet. I was excited about the longer distance, but just did not have the energy to enjoy the workout like I do when I swim in the afternoons. Thanks for any and all suggestions.

I would try a piece of 100% whole wheat toast with some peanutbutter on it. It is quick and you can eat it on the run. You will get in some complex carbs and some protein.

Derrick

i had the same issue, i live about 30 minutes from the gym and get up @ 4:00 AM to workout.  I consulted a sports nut (who also works with bariatric patients) and she has me make 2 slices of toast, the pepperidge farm very thin whole wheat toast, put about a tbspn of peanut butter and a tbspn of honey on it and i'm good to go for the workout.  i eat it in the car on the way to the gym.  i have a protein shake, a bannana, and about a half a cup of yogurt post-workout.

I try to eat my normal breakfast before I work out. Sometimes I don't fini**** due to lack of time, but I try. Since it's a protein shake, I can drink it while I drive. (Though not very fast and once I spilled it all over the car!)

I also drink my special mix (protein drink & GU2O) during swimming. I've seen people do gels in the middle of a hard swim workout too.

You have to fuel during swimming just like you would for biking & running, IMO. You aren't visibly sweating, but you are burning calories and you are probably losing electrolytes too.

Thanks everyone. I will definately start eating something in the mornings!