272. Fuel Smarter, Run Stronger: Your Top Running Nutrition Questions Answered with Brooke Czarnecki, RDN, LD

[Download] Nutrition Blueprint Can you run a half marathon on potatoes instead of gels? Should you eat before a 5 a.m. run? What the heck should you eat after a hard 5K and before a cooldown? In this listener-powered Q&A episode, Brooke Czarnecki, RDN from our Spark Healthy Runner team tackles all the questions runners are actually asking — from ideal running weight and fueling clean to protein confusion, hydration tips, and supplement breakdowns. We cover: ✔️ Real food vs. gels for long runs ✔️ Fueling for shorter efforts like 5Ks ✔️ Protein timing and how it changes based on training ✔️ Thoughts on Nuun vs. LMNT electrolytes ✔️ Vegan/vegetarian options that aren't protein shakes ✔️ What to eat if you hate bananas (yes, seriously!) ✔️ Collagen, creatine, turmeric… are they worth it? Plus a rapid-fire lightning round to wrap it all up. If you're a runner who wants clarity without the confusion, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Let's take the guesswork out of fueling your runs — hit play and dive in! Links and Resources from the show: - Get all of Brooke's previous episodes on the podcast in one place! - Listen to my previous episode on how injury and nutrition guidance sparked Rachel's first marathon success! - Listen to my previous episode on How to Eat Like a Runner - Listen to my previous episode on hydration and electrolytes for running If you are a runner who is looking for an individualized nutrition plan and want to prevent under-fueling so you can run strong and last long then you can begin to work with Brooke within our 1:1 signature Healthy Runner Coaching program here . Want Dr. Duane or Brooke to answer your question on the podcast? Submit questions here A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode! Want to know how I prioritize fueling my long runs and races? Ucan's Edge gels which taste AMAZING and go down so smoothly! Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you'll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order! Connect with Brooke: - Instagram: @intentfulnutrition - Email: intentfulnutrition@gmail.com - Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Actively Fueled Podcast on Spotify Connect with Dr. Duane - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Join Our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Google Play iHeartRadio Amazon Music Website