What you eat while you train is really important for overall health and performance. Nutrition can be a difficult subject to approach especially if you’re new to sports nutrition. There’s a lot of talk about macros and supplements and diet plans. No doubt it’s overwhelming but it doesnt need to be. The concept you need to bear in mind during this is that whatever plan you decide to do needs to be something you can fit into your life. Often it’s not about what you eat but when you eat, with consistency being key, trying a new diet every few weeks rarely leads to the desired outcomes you set at the beginning of your plan.
You may well enjoy the science of measuring out the exact grams of protein and carbs in each meal as well as taking the additional vitamins and if this sounds like you then look for articles from qualified dietitians, find one that you like the look of and can see yourself sticking to. If it isn’t then look at when you’re currently intaking, if you feel the need to change try and work out what you want to change about the diet and a new way to fit it in.
Often with people new to running it’s a case of decreasing carbs and increasing protein and vegetables. We have an inbuilt craving for calories which is why so many of our comfort foods have a complex carb base, such as potatoes or bread, and when we feel tired we reach for sugary sweet things like chocolate or sweets. Making changes like using wholemeal rice, bread or pasta and swapping sweets for juicy fruits can often reap the same rewards
Further reading
What to eat on rest days or light intensity days
What to eat on normal training days (moderate intensity)
