Sunday, September 22, 2013

What should you eat for a happy run?

Running is good for you. It gets your body moving. Running is attributed to countless health benefits.

But if you run on an empty stomach or if you don't supply your body with the right nutrition, you are asking for trouble before, during or after your run.

Try to eat at least an hour before your run. If you are like me who wants to run every minute of the day, try to eat as soon as you get up. Give it at least fifteen minutes. Ideally an hour before your run. The goal is to have the food digested enough so that you won't feel stomach discomfort while running.

What does your body need for a good run?
  • Proteins - feeds your muscles
  • Minerals (sodium, potassium, manganese, copper) - feeds your muscles
  • Antioxidants - helps alleviate muscle soreness
  • Complex carbohydrates - energy for your body during your run
  • Water - keeps your body hydrated
Prefer these before or after you come back from a run:
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Eggs
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Bananas
  • Turkey
  • Black beans
  • Fruits
Not these
  • High fiber foods - will force you to look for porta-potty during your run
  • Caffeine - preserve your fluids
  • Synthetic sugary food - just bad for your body
  • Alcohol - goes without saying

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