The marathon is a 26.2-mile running event. While many people are knowledgable about training tips, others are not so savvy about their diets. Sure, you are burning loads of calories when you're running 20 to 40 miles a week. However, loading up on fatty foods with empty calories will do little to enhance your endurance. While you might be able to handle more calories per week, rather than counting calories, eat healthy foods and make calories count.
Stay Hydrated
As you increase your running schedule, you will be losing fluid. Make sure you replenish it by drinking six to eight glasses of water on a daily basis.
Eat Potassium-Rich Foods
Sweating depletes your potassium. As such, you should eat a diet rich in potassium. Bananas and baked potatoes are good choices.
Eat Carbohydrates
This is not the time to go on a low-carb diet. However, complex carbohydrates such as pasta and whole-grain bread will be more beneficial than cookies.
Eat Iron-Rich Foods
This is especially important for women. Running can deplete your iron stores. If you are female, you are losing iron when you get your period. Spinach and raisins are iron-rich foods.
About The Author
Lisa Marie Mercer authored "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness," "Breckenridge: A Guide to the Sights and Slopes of Summit County" and "101 Fitness Tips for Women." She's worked as a fitness professional, tour guide and ski resort employee. Her work has appeared in "Aspen Magazine," "HerSports," "The Professional Skier," "Pregnancy Magazine," and "Wired."
