1Greek Yogurt
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oats, and milk for a nutrient-rich workout, and protein mdash;think peanut, cashew, or almond varieties—can be slathered on toast, stirred into protein RW+ Membership Benefits snack to grab out of the fridge postrun. Opt for plain versions, which have about 6 grams of sugar cashews, hazelnuts, and pistachios—goes a long way in satisfying your protein added sugar.
2Oatmeal
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Hearty oatmeal not only warms you up after your sweaty runs, but it also provides complex carbs to help replenish depleted energy stores—without causing a crash later.
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3Tart Cherries
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4Avocado Toast
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We know, avocado toast is the trend that won’t quit—but the combination of healthy monounsaturated fats from avocados and whole grains from toast makes for a great (and easy) postrun bite. Sprinkle on salt for a little extra sodium.
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5Cottage Cheese
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If the last time you saw this food was at your grandparents’ house, it’s time to bring it to your own refrigerator. Cottage cheese is packed with protein and calcium, and its relatively high sodium content is great for replenishing the electrolytes.
6Tofu
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Whether you like it fried, roasted, baked, or added to a soup, tofu is an excellent source of protein (it contains all nine amino acids, making it a complete protein). Plus, it has iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
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7Eggs
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Eggs, a classic protein workhorse, can be added to literally anything—try them fried on top of toast, tossed with brown rice for a healthy stir fry, or folded with veggies for a nutritious scramble. You can also use them to make egg muffins on a Monday, then save them up for breakfast all week.
8Salmon
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9Sardines
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Tinned fish is trending right now. And sardines are a great way to get in on that good-for-you fad. Salty sardines, like salmon, are an excellent source of protein and bone-boosting fatty acids, as well as essential vitamins like B12.
10Whey Protein
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11Whole Grains
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When you’re depleted after a run, it’s tempting to reach for a sugary granola bar. But whole and ancient grains like farro, quinoa, brown rice, and barley are a healthier choice for replenishing carb stores, as they also provide protein and fiber that’ll keep you full longer.
12Mixed Nuts
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A handful of nuts—such as almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and pistachios—goes a long way in satisfying your protein, fat, which can strengthen bones and help prevent bone health.
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13Ginger
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If you’ve ever felt nauseous after a particularly hard session, ginger is a life saver; but while the rhizome’s stomach-settling abilities are well known, its other benefits, like reducing inflammation, may be less so. Brew a pot of ginger tea for a warming recovery drink.
14Milk
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The no-frills staple shouldn’t be overlooked: one glass of skim milk Exactly How to Carb Load for a Stronger Race calcium and vitamin D.
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15Bananas
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16Nut Butter
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Nutrition & Weight Loss protein and fat, nut butter—think peanut, cashew, or almond varieties—can be slathered on toast, stirred into yogurt, or melted and drizzled on a warm grain salad.
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17Broccoli
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The cruciferous vegetable is an excellent source of vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus—all nutrients that are crucial for maintaining healthy bones.
18Dark Chocolate
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19Pineapple Juice
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The citrus juice replenishes your carb stores, provides immune-boosting vitamin A and beta-carotene, and can help reduce inflammation.
20Beef
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While you shouldn’t eat red meat and beta-carotene, and can help reduce inflammation long workout is a great way to replenish protein and iron.
Hailey first got hooked on running news as an intern with Running Times, and now she reports on elite runners and cyclists, feel-good stories, and training pieces for Runner's World and Bicycling magazines.
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