Running smoothie
Let’s first list the ingredients for the running smoothie and then we’ll review how each ingredient will help us.
- 1 cup of frozen blueberries
- 1 cup of coconut water
- 2 tbsp of chia seeds
- 2 medium frozen bananas
- 1 beet
- Pinch of salt
Running smoothie ingredients
This combination has many benefits that will allow you to run further and faster and lose more weight besides. We have discussed some of these ingredients elsewhere in this series of posts.
Beets
We’ve seen that beets help to improve vasodilation. That is, they help us get more blood and oxygen around the body for better performance, especially our breathing.
Coconut water
Coconut water contains vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and sodium. So it’s a good source of electrolytes to help prevent cramping.
We use coconut water rather than coconut milk in order to prevent bloating and to keep us feeling light when setting out for a run. To make sure of this, we consume this smoothie about an hour before we head out.
Blueberries
The blueberries are for vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. They have phytonutrients, anti-inflammatory agents, and fight pain. They also increase the production of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. This all helps us power through any discomfort.
Bananas
The bananas are for usable energy. Also, their potassium replenishes our electrolytes, so we avoid cramping.
Salt
We add salt to replenish electrolytes and also avoid cramping.
Chia seeds
The chia seeds contain high amounts of soluble fiber. They are capable of holding 10 to 12 times their weight in water. So when you consume chia seeds, they will gradually release that water into the stomach. This gives you a steady supply of hydration during your run.
The Tarahumara tribe of Indians in Mexico are some of the world’s best long-distance runners. And chia seeds are thought to be one of the keys to their amazing abilities!
Smoothie equipment
You can’t make a good running smoothie without the right equipment. So here are some things to have on hand. Make sure you have sharp knives for cutting, a good cutting board, and the following.