Runner's Nutrition

Runner's Nutrition

Why is Nutrition Important?

Nutrition is very important for anyone, but runners must pay a little more attention to make sure they are getting enough of the right kinds of food. Running, or any other vigorous exercise, burns more carbohydrates and runners must replenish these carbohydrates to remain healthy. One type of food that is very high in carbohydrates is pasta. Many runners will eat a pasta dinner the evening before a race to load up on carbohydrates. It is especially important for marathoners to load up on

carbohydrates before their race. However, simply consuming more carbohydrates the day before a marathon is not greatly effective. In order to maximize the benefits of carbo-loading, runners should consume increased amounts of carbohydrates during the week leading up to their race. This will provide their body with the energy and nutrients to perform at a high level.

Consuming the right amount of calories is also very important for runners. Most runners go through different stages of training for races. Some of the stages include difficult training while others include light and easy jogs for longer periods of time. Most runners take a rest period once or twice during a typical year. Runners must adjust their caloric intake according to the amount and difficulty of their current training. Their are many tools available to calculate how many calories you should be consuming per day. Click the following link to calculate your recommended caloric intake: Calorie Calculator

		Nutrition and Performance
		Training properly and healthy eating habits greatly help to improve performance. Some runners also use supplements to increase endurance and reduce recovery time. Sports drinks such as Gadorade and Powerade can be grouped into this category. However, there are more advanced supplements to enhance performance. One of these supplements is called Accelerade. This product states that it increases hydration and reduces recovery time while adding energy. Pictured to the left is the Accelerade supplement. Most endurance enhancing supplements are marketed towards long distance runners, such as marathoners. Studies have shown the benefits of endurance enhancing supplements are minimal for shorter distance runners.