Hello Runner,
How are you this week? I hope you’re doing well!
I got back from traveling this week, and I'm back to my routine. All good things are short-lived, and I had to come back hehehe.
As hard as it is to train in the extreme heat that Barcelona has been experiencing, I confess that the Olympic atmosphere motivates me. I hope it motivates you too :)
Right from the start, as soon as I arrived at my destination, my eating routine changed, and I started consuming fewer calories and fewer carbohydrates than I'm used to. Result -> cravings
→ Have you ever had a craving? Do you have cravings all the time?
Just as I had on holiday, a client of mine also had cravings for a long time, until she came to me.
Motivational Story
Karol (name changed for privacy) is a 40-year-old CrossFit athlete and runner who studies and works hard. She came to me because of her cravings, which she couldn't control, and was afraid of putting on weight.
What did I initially see with her nutrition?
She was consuming far fewer calories than she needed.
She had a carb-phobic mentality. She was afraid of eating carbohydrates, so she consumed fewer calories, and that's where the cravings came from.
Her protein intake was adequate for her needs
Gif by crossfitplzen on Giphy
The fact is that athletes, runners, and people in general who don't consume the necessary amount of calories each day for energy will have cravings (which are difficult to control).
In addition to uncontrollable cravings, these individuals will have low energy levels that will affect training and competitions.
The cravings will be for foods high in sugar and fats (after all, the body asks for energy).
What's happening with Karol now?
After the first consultation, I made some basic adjustments for Karol to put into practice:
I maintained the good things in her diet, such as adequate protein intake.
I explained the importance of carbohydrates, which provide energy for training.
I showed her the best carb options and the timing of pre- and post-workout meals based on her routine.
I also emphasized that since she expends a lot of energy, a proper diet for her workouts won't generate fat gain.
In just a few weeks, Karol's energy levels changed! Not only is she more productive in her day-to-day life, but her cravings have stopped, she has had no fat gain, and she has seen huge gains in power on CrossFit and running.
Gif by kianalede on Giphy
What happened to Karol is very common in clinical practice with athletes and runners. But with a few minor adjustments, we can control and eliminate these frequent cravings.
If you often feel hungry, it may be that you are not getting what you need and your body is crying out for quick and tasty energy (sugar and fat).
By having a frank conversation with a dietitian/nutritionist, you can find out what is missing from your diet.
Book a free call with me to find out how I can help you. Click the button below.
Any questions or something you would like to share, drop me an email.
Wishing you a great weekend!
Here’s to health and good runs ⚡️
Ana Paula Alonso