Did you know that around 50 million Americans take part in some form of running or jogging?
Running reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease but it also takes its toll on your body. Luckily, vitamins and supplements can reduce the strain on your body by preventing injuries, speeding up recovery time, and increasing your endurance. This is bound to improve your performance in the long run (excuse the pun).
If you want to take your running to the next level, then check out these great supplements for runners!
Protein
When you run, your muscles break down and form micro-tears. As these tears heal, your muscles become stronger, allowing you to run further and faster.
Your body needs fuel to sustain this process. Without enough fuel, your muscles will begin to break down to supply the body with the energy it needs.
Protein is one of the best supplements to aid the anabolic process. There are many different varieties, but most athletes tend to prefer whey protein. Whey is high in nutrients, and stimulates muscle growth, among other health benefits.
Iron
Iron helps to transport oxygen around the body and aids energy production. Symptoms of iron deficiency include shortness of breath and fatigue, both of which will hamper your running.
Runners lose more iron than most athletes and recent studies have shown that around 56% of runners suffer from an iron deficiency. A simple blood test will confirm if your iron levels are low. Iron supplements are available at most drug stores.
Take the hassle out of buying supplements. They will pack, ship, and deliver your supplements in a flash!
Vitamin D
Runners spend a lot of time focusing on their muscle mass and fitness levels, but often overlook bone health. When you run, your bones absorb a lot of the impact. If you’re not taking vitamins that allow your bones to regenerate and recover, you can end up with Bone Stress Injuries.
Vitamin D is one of the best vitamins for runners. It promotes calcium absorption, helping to strengthen your bones. It also boosts your immune system and improves your mood and cardiovascular health.
Magnesium
If you’re having a tough time recovering after a run, or suffer from muscle cramps and spasms, you may have a magnesium deficiency. According to a recent study, as many as 60 to 70% of adults are deficient in magnesium.
Magnesium contributes to your health in many ways. It helps to prevent lactic acid build-up and improves your oxygen intake. It also boosts your immune system, nerve function, and energy production.
Beet Juice
When runners think of taking supplements, they usually think of pills and powders. Few people know that some vegetables are powerful enough to improve your running all on their own.
Beet juice raises the nitric oxide levels in your body. This dilates your blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to your muscles when you are running.
This enhances your lung and muscle function, improving your endurance during long-distance runs. Beet juice also improves your cardiovascular health and lowers your blood pressure.
You should experience the full benefits of beet juice 2-3 hours after consuming it. The effects will last for about 6 hours.
These Supplements for Runners Will Boost Your Performance
As with any type of workout, running puts a lot of strain on your body. If you don’t take care of your body’s needs, your performance will suffer.
Taking these important supplements for runners will prevent fatigue, boost your health, and increase your endurance. Remember, a healthy runner is a happy runner. If this article got your blood pumping, then be sure to check out the rest of our site!
