5 Superfoods That Boost Your Performance

By Alyssa Shaffer
September 05, 2013
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Eating one of these quick bites before a tough workout will help you finish strong
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Foods for a better workout

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Your diet can make or break your run. Work these nutritious bites into your meals, from Marni Sumbal, RD, a sports nutritionist in Jacksonville, Fla.

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Brown rice

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Its carbs give you energy, while the fiber keeps you feeling full. Avoid cramps by giving yourself about an hour to digest before you run.

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Pineapple

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Chow down on this fruit after a run: It's loaded with bromelain, which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that could accelerate muscle repair.

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Greek yogurt

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Eat it often: The calcium keeps bones strong to help ward off stress fractures (a common injury); the protein means quicker muscle recovery.

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Peanut butter

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A tablespoon (high in muscle-fueling protein and healthy fats for sustained energy) spread on a piece of whole-grain toast can power up your run.

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Berries

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Snack on 'em anytime, fresh or frozen—their antioxidants can work to help promote a healthy heart and might even stave off soreness.

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By Alyssa Shaffer