To protein or not to protein? That is actually a pretty mind-baffling question when you're doing endurance training.
Let’s revisit the past two weeks before we delve into protein world. Marathon update: I am still injured. I still cannot run. I am having physio and yes I should be given the all clear. Am I freaking out that when given the all clear I’ll only have about 11 weeks to go? YES. But, all is not lost and seeing that I can still do weights and other exercises I’m still going to (try) and power through. While I’ve been out of the running game, I’ve been swotting up on running knowledge. The things that might help me off the road, and in the kitchen/recovery mode. One of those is: how much protein should I be eating while training for an intense race?
The answer? Quite a lot. I think most of us probably unknowingly struggle with protein. I’m a prime example of this, being that my diet is pretty healthy most of the time. I eat lots of vegetables, having oats most mornings with slightly too much honey but not so much it’s like eating a bowl full of sugar, and I drink enough water that I have to go to the toilet every 20-minutes. That being said, I do not eat enough protein, and I don’t think most of us do.
Our bodies are made up tiny little cells that contain protein, but we also need protein from food sources to help our body repair and make new ones. It’s especially important or growth and development when endurance training. Think about it, the growth, maintenance and repair of lean muscle all depends on the protein in our bodies. Low protein intake = weakened muscles, longer recovery time and weakened immune system. All terrible things when you need to train four times a week and need to be strong.
I think most of us are pretty terrified about the whole concept of protein powder, but the thing is it's not scary at all. From Googling, and asking my dad (who does triathalons) - protein powders in their simplest form are just an easy, portable way of consuming protein. Say you've just worked out and in order to help your muscles repair quickly you know you need protein but have no access to say, chicken or steak - a protein shake is not only easier to drink on the go, but it's more accessible too.
I decided to test out a range of protein powders available to see which A) tasted good, because taste is v.important obvs, and 2) which way was best to eat them.
THERE ARE ONLY SO MANY EGGS WE CAN EAT, GUYS.
MissFits Nutrition
I was recommended MissFits Nutrition by a pal, and so far, so good. These guys are vegan, GMO free, dairy free and gluten free – so basically free. They come in a massive range of flavours, from chocolate (my personal fave) to mixed berry and you can buy a box of handy sachet sizes all for (price). I wouldn’t recommend putting these in your morning oats – maybe it’s the way I stirred them in – but they didn’t dissolve very well, which resulted in glue-like oats. That being said, when put in a morning smoothie you’re onto a winner.
Neat Nutrition
Oh my goodness these guys Neat Nutritionones in your morning oats taste divine. Like a chocolate oaty milkshake, get in my mouth. Neat Nutrition was founded by former GB swimmers Charlie Turner and Lee Forster – so if there’s one thing they know, it’s fitness. Their all about well sourced, cleanly produced, great tasting protein and I can confirm Neat Nutrition does all three.
NutriStrength
When I first recieved some of these I was immeditately freaked out by the 'Goat and Sheep Whey Protein,' one, for obvious reasons. Whaaaat goat and sheep?! But actually, if you want want an alternative to cow's whey based proteins, this is the right one for you. Goat and sheep milk has a different structure and fat composition to cows milk, so it’s more easily absorbed into our bodies - so if you feel too full after a cow based protein powder this might be the one for you.
Nutrii yoghurts
These Nutrii yoghurts contain a product called ‘quark’. Quark is a fresh dairy product more commonly used in Germanic and Nordic countries. If you find the thought of protein powder off-putting, these might be the protein source for you. Naturally fat-free and high in protein it basically tastes like greek yoghurt, minus the acid taste. Dreamy with fruit and honey too. #Bonus.
Like this? You might also be interested in…
From 5k To Full Marathon: Where The F To Start With Marathon Training
From 5k To Full Marathon: Nike Run Coach Becs Gentry On How To Sort Out Your Training Plan
From 5k To Full Marathon: Tom Daley On What To Do When You CBA
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.