100% Natural

A recent article in Runner’s World about natural alternatives to sports drinks like any of the electrolytes infused –ades got me thinking: Are all these sports nutrition products really worth spending on? With natural alternatives and a little knowledge wouldn’t it be easier to just stock our fridges with things like coconut water or cranberry juice versus neon green powders to just add water to? Not to mention saving the grief on consuming additives that most people can’t pronounce without an interpreter.

If sport drinks are just the tip of the iceberg for sports marketing fuel products for you (I know they are for me) you might want to read up on a recent study published by NPR before your next trip to GNC. A recent independent study commissioned by consumer reports found that leading muscle building protein drinks (which are popular post run refreshments) have more than the daily allowance of metals such as arsenic, cadmium and lead. Arsenic? I didn’t even know there was a daily allowance for something like that.

Here are a few links to give you starting places on finding out alternative ways to fueling up for your next run without the pre-packaged bars, powders and bottles:

Homemade Snack Energy Bar Recipes: http://www.cptips.com/hmdesnk.htm

Vegetarian Homemade Protein: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/kristi5.htm

Fuel During Long Run Endurance Training: http://www.wellsphere.com/healthy-eating-article/fuel-for-endurance-running/806321