Runners Bad Eating Habits: Part 2

6. The Protein Pounder

You believe protein is power so you replace the carbs with protein.

While extreme amount of protein can damage your kidneys and liver the main problem is protein is used to replace other much-needed nutrients. How about a refocus on carbs since protein in most cases only need to be about 15% of our total diet.

7. The Supplement Abuser.

Much like the protein pounder the same goes for the supplement abuser. For some if a little is good more must be better! We need to remember that our body can only use so much before our body says that’s enough and gets rid of it colorfully. The other side is it stores it as a toxin. What! Too much zinc can lead to high cholesterol and too much iron is linked to liver damage. Not a good thing.

I don’t think sups are a waste but think less is more.

8. The Chronically Dehydrated

This is a biggy. Whether you are a runner or just trying to lose some weight most Americans are under-hydrated. Think about how much water you drink after your morning coffee? Just remember that a high intensity exercise cannot be maintained without hydration. I like to tell my high school athletes never walk by a drinking fountain without taking a drink. If you’re a runner think about pre-run weight and be sure to drink 16-20 oz of water for each pound of weight lose (that doesn’t bean do it all in 20 minutes, think over 2 hours)

Now go get some water.

9. The calorie-Deprived

Say what. You burn more than you eat.

If you’re trying to lose weight and using running as a method you need a Kcal deficit. If you’re a runner or maintaining your weight you need to eat! If you don’t your body will go into a cannibalistic state and eat itself. That’s not so good for maintaining health runner or not. Remember to eat more on heavy training days. When I go on a long ride (bicycle) I will burn upward of 4000-6000 Kcal. You can be sure I eat for that ride.

Before beginning any exercise or nutritional program you should consult a medical doctor (MD).