The definition of a “good diet” differs based on what activity you choose and how often you do it. These guides to diet for runners are no exception.
There are several schools of thought as to which diet is best for runners. The diet you choose will have a lot to do with your goals, too. Long distance runners such as those who run marathons and ultra marathons have a need for a higher amount of carbohydrates than a runner who only goes short distances.
So when deciding on what type of diet you should eat, you need to keep in mind your level of activity and your overall goals. Failure to eat enough calories can actually result in injury and cause you to not perform your best.
The Importance of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are very important for runners, especially for those who regularly run long distances. The body converts carbohydrates into glycogen which is stored in the muscles and used for fuel during activity. But after a while, those glycogen stores get depleted.
That is why it is important for runners to eat a good amount of carbohydrates. When running long distances, it is also a good idea to take along something that is high in simple carbohydrates, such as sports drinks and gels. Once the glycogen in your body is depleted, you will need to replace it with extra carbs.
Maintaining Electrolyte Balance
Runners sweat a lot. When this happens, valuable minerals are lost, namely potassium. The term “electrolytes” refers to the balance in your body between sodium and potassium. A deficiency in potassium can result in problems such as muscle cramping, which can affect your running.
It is important to replace these electrolytes while running. Sports drink is an essential product to have on hand. Drink a bottle about an hour before each run and try to sip on it while run
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