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: [e-mail]

- 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

- [e-mail]

- www.sparkhealthyrunner.com

Listen & Subscribe:

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