What is the BEST pre-run snack?
The answer is: an easily digestible simple carb with a bit of protein (if desired/able). So, think: simple carb + light protein.
What to avoid? Fats, heavy amount of protein, lots of fiber. So, you’ll want to avoid full fat products, anything fatty or greasy (pizza, fries, etc), vegetables (fiber), high protein foods in large quantities. Why? They are more difficult for your body to digest! If you eat these, it can lead to digestive distress mid-run.
The idea is consuming something that your body can instantly use to generate energy: “simple carbs are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream because they have been stripped of their fiber”.
My go-tos right now are: poptarts, a couple of Rice Krispies, toast with almond or peanut butter, rice cakes with almond or peanut butter, 1/2 of a perfect bar, banana and peanut butter, homemade energy bites (oatmeal + peanut butter +honey) and more!
IMPORTANT: You do NOT want to skip the snack. This will just lead you to be hungry during your run, suffer performance wise, feel more fatigued sooner, have less energy for the workout, crave carbs later on in the day and immediately post workout. Practice eating before your runs for the most optimal performance!
