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1 "correct" answer available (10 pts) 2 "helpful" answers available (7 pts)
2 Replies Last post: Jun 8, 2008 6:08 AM by beststretch.com  
Click to view PilotRunning's profile Rookie 1 posts since
Jun 7, 2008
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Jun 7, 2008 9:50 PM

Eating before a run...

Hey all,
I am new to the running scene and so far I have enjoyed it very much. I do have a question however... I am still looking to burn some fat and was wondering if it is considered poor form to eat a very small breakfast or not at all before a run of 2-3 miles? I feel fine during the run either way...
Thanks,
Andy
Click to view Mark W Rice's profile Pro 85 posts since
May 21, 2008
1. Jun 8, 2008 5:40 AM in response to: PilotRunning
Re: Eating before a run...

Actually, that is the preferred approach... eat nothing or very little. WITHIN that range, it varies a lot. I prefer to not eat at all. Your blood is divered from your stomach to your muscles and so it doesn't get the attention it needs for digestion anyway. If you eat much at all (or foods that are difficult to digest) it will likely cause problems. For me, it will go sour. For some others, they will actually throw up.

By the way, I don't feel hungry once I'm underway. If I'm on a long run (an hour or more) I sometimes feel slightly hungry, but I take gel packs each 45 minutes and that with water tend to take care of it.

Mark

Click to view beststretch.com's profile Amateur 20 posts since
Jun 4, 2008
2. Jun 8, 2008 6:09 AM in response to: PilotRunning
Re: Eating before a run...
When you begin a run, you should feel neither starved nor stuffed. You don't want to eat immediately before running because it may lead to cramping. Running on an empty stomach may cause you to run out of energy. You best bet is to eat a light snack or meal about 1 1/2 to 2 hours before you start running.

Choose something high in carbohydrates and lower in fat, fiber, and protein. Some examples of good pre-workout fuel include: a bagel with peanut butter; a banana and an energy bar; or a bowl of cold cereal with a cup of milk. Stay away from rich, very fatty, or high-fiber foods, as they may cause gastrointestinal distress.

I cheated on this answer, I need the points ;) : http://running.about.com/od/nutritionandhydration/f/preruneating.htm