Running and Feeling Hungry

by Barry
(Arizona)

Hi there.
I am quite new to running. I have got a question about eating and feeling hungry. Ever since I have started running I get hungry so quickly. Is it just because of the extra exercise? Is there anything I can do to stop going for the cookie jar at night? I feel it defeats all the purpose of the running in the first place.


I would really appreciate an answer to this.
Thanks,
Barry


Answer by Dominique:


Hi Barry,
Thanks for your question. Running requires energy from your body. The more you run, the more energy you use. Your body needs to eat and drink to replenish and gain back energy.

Some tips to fight the urges:

  • Make sure you eat healthy

  • Eat well when you have your main meals. Eat your fruit and vegetables, make sure you get enough protein and complex carbohydrates (whole grain bread and pasta) into your body.

  • Try more, but smaller meals

  • Instead of 3 meals per day try to make it into 6 meals a day. Not by eating more, but by eating less when you have your main meals and compensating for that midway between meals. E.g. eat some nuts and raisins as a "snack" in between. Save half a sandwich from lunch and eat it a few hours later.

    We are trained to eat 3 times a day. But when we make exercise changes we can get hungry in between. If we do not prepare for this, then this is the time we will go for a quick fix via a chocolate bar, cookies etc.

  • Drink water

  • Have lots of water. Running will get you dehydrated and that may make feel like you need something to eat.

  • Have your healthy snack ready

  • When you are still experiencing cravings, be prepared for them. Make sure you have got an apple ready, some nuts or something, anything to stop you from going for your cookies. Better still, ban the cookies from your home!


    I hope these few little tips help you battle the cravings.
    Best of luck.
    Kind regards,
    Dominique

    Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Training Helpline.



    Like this page:


    Share this page:


    Like this site:


    [?] Subscribe To This Site

    XML RSS
    follow us in feedly
    Add to My Yahoo!

    Helpful
    Resources

    • Beginner Running Tips

      Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

    • Running for Weight Loss

      Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

    • Running Training

      The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

    • 5k Running Tips

      The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

    • 10k Running Tips

      The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

    • Marathon Running Tips

      The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




    What's New?

    1. Five Tips for Running the Mile

      Want to improve your mile time? Here are some tips for running the mile that should help make you faster.

      Read more

    2. What is The Best Way to Train for a Beginning Runner?

      I have been running for a little over a month. I seem to be in decent shape for a former smoker. I started with 2 miles per run, twice a week for the

      Read more

    3. Is Distance Running Bad For You?

      Hi, I'm Anne, a 45-year-old who has newly discovered my love for running. I started three months ago when I participated in a fun run during which

      Read more

    4. Beginner Running with Ankle Pain

      I am 48 years old and I started running a couple weeks ago. You know run, walk when needed type stuff. I have gone out about five times doing pretty

      Read more

    5. Can Only Run Three Consecutive Days

      I am a truck driver who works every Monday morning to Thursday evening on the road. I am either driving or sleeping on the road and my truck only

      Read more