Fresh pasta and tomato sauce is a delicious meal choice for the taste alone. However, if you are a runner, it can even boast health benefits. Pasta and carbohydrates are great for endurance and will help you power through long runs. The next time you need to load up on carbs, dive into a fresh pasta dish, and reap the rewards. Below, find out why this food is so beneficial for a runner’s health. 

4 Reasons Why Runners Need Pasta

1. Improve Endurance

Runners and other athletes understand the effect of eating a lot of carbs before a big race or endurance event. Carbohydrates, such as those found in fresh pasta, are converted to glucose in the body and stored as glycogen. Glycogen is the body’s long-term energy supply, which is just what you need in the final miles of a marathon. Endurance, speed, and energy are all enhanced by an increased carb intake a few hours before a run.

2. Retain Muscle Mass

Eating carbohydrates before and after a race can help to build up glycogen and keep energy high. This will help you avoid hitting a sudden drop in energy. After a workout or athletic event, carbs are just as useful. Post-training carbs refill glycogen in the body as well as help retain muscle mass.

3. Increase Carbohydrate Intake 

Pasta, especially whole wheat varieties, contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whole wheat or brown rice pasta contain many more health benefits than white pasta. Gluten-free pasta is often made of so-called “ancient grains” such as quinoa or amaranth. These foods offer protein, vitamins, and minerals, and are great for runners that can’t tolerate gluten but would like an option over rice. Spaghetti squash, rice, and sweet potatoes are also nutritious choices for athletes wanting to bulk up before an athletic event.

4. Prepare for a Race 

When getting ready for a half or full marathon, it’s important to load up on carbs a few days before the event. Sports performance experts recommend around 4 grams of carbohydrates for every pound of body weight. Muscles will get filled to capacity with glycogen in the low-mileage days before the big race. Pasta, oatmeal, whole-grain bread, fruit, and rice are all great choices.

Fresh pasta is a delicious choice for lunch or dinner and great for those preparing for a marathon. Paul’s Pasta Shop, in Groton, CT, has been voted the area’s best Italian restaurant. They have provided authentic pasta and Italian cuisine since 1988 to Southeastern Connecticut. Their menu of fresh, delicious pasta dishes, salads, and soups caters to the vegetarian and meat-eater alike. Call (860) 445-5276 to place an order or visit the website to view their menu.