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Optimal Post-Run Nutrition: Foods to Eat for Recovery and Performance

Optimal Post-Run Nutrition: Foods to Eat for Recovery and Performance

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Running has recently become increasingly popular. For those who are new to running, in addition to learning proper running techniques, they must also understand the foods that should be consumed to improve their running performance. Check out the following article for recommendations on foods to eat after running.

Running has recently become increasingly popular. For those who are new to running, understanding proper running techniques is important, but knowing what foods to consume to improve performance is equally crucial. Check out the following article for recommendations on foods to eat after running.

 

What to eat after a run

Running is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can also aid in weight loss. Depending on your running goals—whether to lose weight, gain muscle mass, or complete a long-distance run—the food you consume can help you achieve them. While many focus on pre-run nutrition, post-run nutrition is just as important.

Weight Loss

Running is a popular sport for weight loss. It can be done anywhere, anytime, and with minimal equipment. To lose weight effectively, incorporate strength training and focus on proper nutrition. Here are some foods to consume after running:

  • Beetroot salad: Rich in nutrients, low in calories, and a good source of fiber, beetroot is beneficial for weight maintenance. It also contains nitrates, which help maintain healthy blood vessels, improve running performance, and delay fatigue.
  • Watermelon: Low in calories and rich in lycopene and citrulline, watermelon helps maintain blood vessel health and relieve muscle soreness. Its high water content helps restore hydration after exercise.
  • Peanut butter with banana or apple: The combination of fat from peanut butter and carbohydrates from banana or apple helps regain energy and promotes satiety. Limit peanut butter to two tablespoons to keep calorie intake in check.

Muscle building

Running, when combined with weight lifting, can help you burn calories, keep your heart healthy, and gain muscle. After running, you can consume the following:

  • Low-fat chocolate milk
  • Whey protein shake
  • Low-fat grilled chicken and vegetables
  • Cottage cheese and fruits

Marathon run

A carbohydrate- and protein-rich meal within an hour of running can help replenish burned glycogen stores, support recovery, and rebuild stressed muscles. You can consume the following foods:

A meal rich in carbohydrates and protein within an hour of running can help replenish glycogen stores, support recovery, and rebuild stressed muscles. You can consume the following foods:

  • Eggs on toast
  • Sandwich with meat
  • Pasta with meat or plant-based protein
  • Protein shake or smoothie

 

Aside from watching what you eat, you should hydrate your body after running to replenish fluids lost through sweating. Sweat contains minerals like sodium and chloride, so electrolyte drinks can help you replace lost fluids. Electrolyte drinks are only required for intense running workouts lasting more than an hour. If your workout is brief and not physically demanding, drinking water or fruit juice as needed will be sufficient. Also, combine carbohydrates and protein for a post-run meal.

If you have any questions about nutrition or fitness, you can make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

 

Looking for more information about nutrition, food, and other diet tips? Click here!

Writer : Ratih AI Care
Editor :
  • dr Nadia Opmalina
Last Updated : Wednesday, 17 July 2024 | 10:23