Our earlier discussion about supplements got me thinking about nutrition and diet more generally. One of my favorite journalists, the self-proclaimed "less-meatarian" Mark Bittman also happens to be a runner. In the New York Times, he describes three changes he made to increase his energy level and decrease his recovery time:
"One, I started drinking Gatorade (we're going to tackle a homemade recipe for that very soon; stay tuned) during long runs. Two, I started eating an hour before every run of six miles or more; usually that was a bowl of oatmeal or bulgur, or some peanut butter and crackers. And three, I started eating a "concentrated protein," usually tofu, a can of sardines, an egg thrown onto whatever else I'm eating, or something equally simple, right after six-miles-or-longer runs."
I've already been practicing the first two suggestions, but I think it's time that I start paying attention to post-run protein. I appreciate the idea that this can come from something as simple as a bowl of fresh tofu -- throw on some scallions and and soy sauce, and that's a pretty tasty snack!
Can't go wrong with a simple little refried bean burreto with cheese after a long run. Extra protein and no meat!
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