If you have been regularly exercising but still experience sluggishness, fatigue or those unwanted pounds are not coming off, you may want to consider when your workout time is. Recent research has shown that those who exercise first thing in the morning and before breakfast have had the most success with weight loss and overall good health. 

Why does this matter? Both exercise and fasting together will force the breakdown of fat and glycogen, which is essential for energy. The sympathetic nervous system plays a large role here because this system controls your body's fat burning processes and is activated by lack of food and exercising(this is what you want).

On the other hand, exercising after a meal will actually slow down the sympathetic nervous system and have the exact opposite effect on fat burning. 

Of course, I know there are some people who simply cannot exercise on an empty stomach, maybe due to blood sugar concerns. So what is the answer for them? If you absolutely need something before your workout, I would recommend a small protein shake with healthy fruits and a quality whey protein powder.

This can aid in increasing your metabolism and additionally help with muscle building. If you have an under active thyroid, this can really help boost your thyroid levels.