The Top 7 Foods for Runners

Andy Lyons

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From the editors of FITNESS magazine

From repairing muscle to maintaining energy, runners' bodies have special nutritional needs. Here, seven great foods for runners -- peanut butter tops the list!

Small Bagel with Peanut Butter

For runners, food does more than just squelch hunger. It also fuels your muscles and keeps you healthy.

"Runners need quality foods that provide a 'spark plug' for their energy," says Nancy Clark, RD, MS, and author of the Food Guide for Marathoners. These seven "elite" foods for runners will help you feel your best -- and keep you up and running.

Small Bagel with Peanut Butter

If you're a morning runner, you know it can be tough to hit the road on an empty stomach. It's been several hours since your last meal the night before, and your energy stores are low. Eating a 100- to 300-calorie snack before your morning run can give you energy and staying power, says Clark. This quick-and-easy snack has carbs and protein, plus it's easy to digest.

Next: Bananas