I’m training for a 5K in the Fall! Well, I’m currently researching training for a 5K. I love working out but I’m not a great runner, so I’m challenging myself and stepping outside of my comfort zone by participating in this 5K. (Stay tuned for all that info later.) With that, I thought I would check out what possible supplements runners need.
Anyhoo, if you are a runner, you already know the importance of a healthy and balanced diet. It provides your body with all the essential energy that it needs to keep going in your runs and ensures that it isn’t depleted of any other essential nutrients. Plus, a well-balanced diet will have all of the protein needed for the body to quickly recover after each run.
However, if you are following a restricted diet, you might find that you struggle to get some nutrients into your body. Even if you do get all the nutrients that you need, you might want to increase your intake of certain ones so that you can improve your performance. Whatever your reason, there are a few different supplements that you might want to start taking when you run on a regular basis. Here are a few key suggestions.
Caffeine
Caffeine can help you keep going on all of your long runs. However, it’s probably not wise to drink a Venti or two just before you head out but having a small cup before you run can help you reap the benefits of coffee!
Turmeric
Turmeric can help the recovery process after all of your runs, especially if you ever injure yourself. The spice is known as an anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce any swelling in the muscles. That’s not all, though, as it is also an antioxidant so can help provide oxidative stress release to the body. Plus, it helps supports the joints and improves overall muscle health.
Protein Powder
As someone who is regularly working out, your body will need a lot of protein. It will use all the protein to help strengthen the muscles and repair them after each running session. You should be able to get enough protein from healthy sources, such as poultry, leafy greens, and dairy products. But it’s always a good idea to boost your intake with some protein powder. This is especially the case when you increase the intensity or length of your runs, as all that protein powder will help speed up recovery.
Omega 3 Fish Oils
Another supplement that can help reduce inflammation in the body is Omega 3 fish oil. Taking plenty of these oils can help prevent too much pain from any potential running injuries. It can also help to reduce any muscle soreness and aching after particularly strenuous workouts.
Beetroot Juice
The nitrates that are in beetroots are known to help increase performance in long runs. So, if you have a long race coming up, such as a marathon or ultramarathon, you might want to start taking some beetroot supplements. You can even buy beetroot shots that you will be able to take while you are on your long runs to give yourself a little boost.
5K Training with the Proper Nutrition for Runners
It’s important for anyone, athlete or not, to have proper nutrition. I will be training for this 5K with the proper nutrition for my mind and body. I always say, “feed the mind, fuel the body” and that’s exactly what I intend to do. If you are wanting to reach your health goals, I would LOVE to help you. Shoot me an email laura@nauandforever.com and let’s chat!
Great post. Good luck with the 5K training. I’m actually training for a half marathon. I typically don’t do many supplements unless it’s for one of my longer runs.
Thanks! Good luck to you too! I think I’m definitely going to Up my protein. I’m still breastfeeding so when I lift and do cardio I usually increase that for sure!