More Peanut Butter please!

Peanut Butter Smoothie
Ready to drink!

When I read today's news, I was delighted to see... it's National Peanut Butter Day!  Peanut butter is one of the top power foods for runners.  It's a highly condensed source of protein, which runners need to build and repair muscles in training, especially after hard workout sessions.  After strenuous long runs, I usually have protein waiting in the car for me to inhale, usually in the form of a protein drink since I'm thirsty.

Peanut butter is also a good source of fiber, which makes you feel fuller longer.  That's why I often top my pre-run waffle/bagel with peanut butter.  It provides that extra punch of protein and fiber to make my body satisfied during long races.  Of course, peanut butter is also high in calories, so be careful not to overdo it.  Taken at the right times, peanut butter can be a great source of power for runners and a nutritious filler for those on a diet.

In honor of today's holiday, I made a new recipe and it was YUMMY!  This breakfast will power me through a tough tempo run today.

** PEANUT BUTTER SMOOTHIE **

1 frozen banana (cut up in chunks)

1 heaping tablespoon of peanut butter

1/2 c. almond milk

drizzle of honey

5 ice cubes

Blend it all up and enjoy!

360 calories   |   10g protein   |   26g calcium   |   6g fiber

In the blender

Of course, the other "magic" food in this recipe is banana!  A good source of carbs, bananas also contain potassium, which runners lose through sweating and help regulate muscle contraction and prevent cramping.  Bananas are also considered safe pre-run food because they're unlikely to cause GI issues.