There are a lot of different foods you can eat when running. However, some foods are better than others. If you want to be able to perform to your best, and live a healthy lifestyle in general, it is important to what the best foods for runners are.
Bananas
Bananas are one of the best foods to eat before going out on your run.
They are high in carbs as well as potassium (about 400 mg).
This is great especially if you plan on running a long distance. The carbs will provide you the extra boost of energy while the potassium will help compensate for the minerals that you lose while sweating as well as lower you blood pressure.[1]Runtastic – OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: THE 9 BEST FOODS FOR RUNNER
Almonds
As a runner, you should make sure to eat a handful of almonds 3-5 times per week.
This is one of the best foods for runners because it if filled with the antioxidant vitamin E.
Most people are highly deficient in this vitamin as it is not readily found in a lot of foods.
In addition to helping increase your antioxidant levels, vitamin E also lowers your cholesterol levels. Studies have also been shown that the type of vitamin E (gamma-tocopherol) in almonds may also protect you against cancer![2]Runner’s World – Use This Healthy Grocery List to Fuel Your Miles
Needless to say, this little nut, is an essential part of anyone’s, not just runners, daily diet.
Chicken
Protein is an essential part of a runner’s diet. It helps build and repair your muscles after a hard workout. However, the problem with most protein sources is that there is too much fat which in the long run will slow you down.
Chicken is a great option because it is extremely low in fat. In addition, chicken has selenium which helps protect your muscles from free radicals that cause muscle damage.[3]Medium – 12 Best foods for runner: What to eat and when
Watermelon
Watermelon is one of the best foods for runners to both boost their performance and help their recovery.
It is filled with citrulline which helps your body produce nitric oxide. Nitric oxide has been shown to help relieve muscle soreness and delay exercise fatigue.
It is also filled with water. In fact, 91% of watermelon, by weight is actually water! So not only is it a tasty snack after your run. It is also a great to rehydrate![4]healthline – The 15 Best Foods to Eat After Running
Cherries
Cherries are one of the best foods for runners. According to studies, they are actually the most antioxidant rich fruit in the world!
This superfood can help runners reduce strength expenditure while running as well as reduce and relieve soreness faster while recovering.[5]Bulk Powders – 8 BEST FOODS FOR RUNNER
Parting Words
There are a lot of different foods you can eat as a runner.
Some are good for your health and performance, while some aren’t so great. One of the most important parts of nutrition is knowledge, and we hope this little list can help you choose which best foods for runners are for you!
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