Eating after a run (Read 735 times)

The short answer is yes, definitely. I know Trent will chime in here as well, but the 60 minute post work-out window is the best time to replenish your body as it makes the best use of what you feed it during this period (assuming you don't feed it crap). The rate of glycogen replinishment is at its highest level after you workout. Also muscles are more sensitive to insulin after a good workout and therefore if the proper nutrients are consumed, protein replinishment to damaged muscle tissue is also at its highest level. But, this is me being very technical and based on how I train. If you just run 2 or 3 miles at an easy pace, it's not such a big deal to eat right after your run. However, if you run long or hard, then it becomes of greater importance.

< chime="" />How far do you run. How frequently do you run. Can you make your log public so we can see and offer advice specific to your training? < hime="" />

I actually keep my log on another website (Nike +) so I can see if I can figure out how to link it. Basically though, I run 4 nights a week (M-TH) about 4-5 miles, with a long run on Saturday.

I used to use Nike. I don't anymore. It was too slow, locked down and proprietary feeling. With that running, your probably need to eat something. Can you drink a smoothie? Warm milk would also be particularly good, or Hot Cocoa with a milk base. That will help you recover and relax.

Trent, tell the poster about the milk you get from the Amish farmer....

Milk is not my thing But I could probably do some juice or a smoothie. But what if I don't eat/drink. Am I doing myself harm? I'd also like to lose about 20 more pounds (already down 20) and I hate to negate all that hard work by consuming calories. And I LOVE Nike +. maybe because I'm lazy - I just plug in the iPod, and it does the work for me. I also love the great graphs it creates. Guess I could enter my stuff on the log here too . . . nah. Too much work.

Running 5 miles burns about 600-700 calories. You could eat just 100-200 and still have a net loss. If milk does not do it for you and ice cream or cheese are no good, you may consider a banana. By not eating anything, you are not likely to do any damage, but you delay your recovery. Beer is good too.

I understand that protein is the important thing to ingest after a run. I am a soccer coach so I run after procatice. I usually get done about 8:00. I eat my last meal of the day after that. It does affect my sleeping. I would recommend that you have some nuts, hummus and whole grain bread, or other protein. By the way, I'm Mennonite and I drink Mennonite milk. I'm guessing that Trent buys direct from the farm. Meaning that the milk is chilled, but not pastuerized. That milk is way better for you and does not affect many people who have lactose intolerance.