Well, folks. It’s happening. This Sugar Fix Dental Loft blogger is running the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 1, 2015. While marathon training does not officially begin until July, it’s never too late to start developing a solid base. Over the next few months I will try out various sources of fuel to ingest while running. The purpose being that come marathon day, I know what works for my body and what I like to eat and drink mid-run.
GELS, CHEWS AND GOOS
Ever heard of gels, chews and goos? These are all quick and easy ways to give your body a burst of carbohydrates to keep those legs moving forward and your arms pumping. Lord knows I don’t want to feel lethargic and cranky at mile 18 because my blood sugar levels have dropped. Not having energy is detrimental to a marathon.
REPLENISHING GLUCOSE LEVELS
While sugar should always be consumed in moderation and in its natural state (not processed), gels, chews and goos can be a lifesaver while running long-distance. Goo and gel work to deliver simple and complex carbohydrates, antioxidants, essential amino acids and lactic acid buffers to your body via easy digestion. Can’t really chow down on a plate of pasta while trying to maintain a pace of 8:06 for 26.2 miles.
WATER FIRST
When it comes to hydrating, water is the way to go. However, when training for a race or competition, one might be inclined to consume flavored vitamin-rich sports beverages. If you are going to splurge on a Gatorade to get back those electrolytes you sweated out, make sure you drink it all in one sitting. Sipping on a sports beverage all day long causes long-term damage to your teeth in the form of enamel erosion and tooth decay. Is that fruit punch flavored beverage really worth potential cavities?
GATORADE SIDE EFFECTS
Next time you are thinking about choosing a Gatorade over a smartwater, check out that nutrition label; specifically the grams of carbohydrates and the citric acid. Over time, tooth enamel is eroded from the sugar and acid. It’s not a nice thought to have when drinking an orange Gatorade: Wow, this tastes so great and I love that it’s slowly deteriorating my lovely teeth!
CONTACT
Moral of the story: It’s okay to have a Gatorade every once in a while. It’s okay to suck down some gel for a shot of energy so you can cross that finish line. However, try your best to stick to water whenever possible to hydrate. Cut back on sugar in general. If not training for a marathon, there is no scientific need to snack on gels, chews and goos. If you feel like you need more advice, contact Dr. Jessica T. Emery at Sugar Fix Dental Loft. Not only is Dr. Emery a cosmetic dentist, she runs! Better than this author, in fact.