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Proper nutrition crucial for marathon runners

A United States based sports diet expert has advised runners that proper nutrition and hydration are crucial for anyone training for a marathon.

Long-distance runners are at risk for low bone density, stress fractures and irregular periods, so it's important for them to provide their bodies with enough energy to achieve peak performance and prevent injuries, said Brooke Schantz, a registered dietitian and board-certified specialist in sports dietetics at Loyola University Health System in Maywood, Ill.

She suggests between 30 and 60 minutes of activity per day depending on your running goals and body weight. With regard to eating Schantz advises that it is always best for runners to consult a registered dietitian for a tailored nutrition plan but says there are a few general diet related tips that can giver runners a boost.

Schantz shares her nutrition tips:

Avoid high-fibre foods the night before and the morning of the race. Eating these types of foods – such as high-fibre cereals, grains, granola bars, fruits and vegetables – could result in intestinal distress and cramping on race day.

Monitor your sweat loss and weigh yourself before and after long runs. For every pound lost during a run, replace it with 16 ounces of water. Monitoring urine colour is a good way to assess hydration levels. The clearer your urine, the more hydrated you are.

Consume 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates every hour when exercising more than one hour. They can be consumed on the move in different forms, including gels, jelly beans, sports drinks, sports bars or a combination thereof.

Carbohydrate loading before a marathon can help improve performance. Some carbo-loading plans start six days before a race, but even beginning a high-carb diet the day before the race can help maintain a high-intensity run.

Protein is also important

Protein also is important for increasing lean muscle mass and aiding in muscle repair. Endurance athletes require 1.2 to 1.4 grams for every 2.2 pounds per day.

Be sure to practice a nutrition and hydration schedule ahead of the marathon. Race day is not the time to try out new foods and beverages.

More information

Sources: Clevelandclinic

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