Are there holiday treats that benefit runners? Is it possible that our favorite goodies can possibly be helpful to our sport? Friends, I don’t buy into “earning food rewards”, but it’s nice to know that our favorite holiday snacks might actually be good for us!
Gingerbread
Who doesn’t love a jaunty gingerbread person cookie? Ginger, the main ingredient, is a spice full of medical benefits, perfect for runners. First, it’s an anti-inflammatory and an anti-oxident. Ginger aids in digestion, which is super helpful, especially on long run and race days. Ingestion of ginger can help with menstrual cramps, and can also minimize the damage of osteoarthritis, which can negatively effect runner’s joints.
Candy Canes
Peppermint, and therefore candy canes, is another incredible tool in a runner’s holiday arsenal. Indigestion is no match for peppermint, which is helpful to any runner who has ever suffered from GI troubles. Peppermint is known to help ease period cramps, similar to ginger. It sharpens focus (which is great for dedication to your running goals), and combats seasonal allergies and sinus issues, helping runners breathe more easily. Let’s show some love for this red and white treat!
Egg Nog
Raise your hand if you think it’s unfair that eggnog is only available for a couple months a year. Runners, take note. Egg nog is loaded with potassium, which we all know is amazing at alleviating muscle cramps. It’s also great for the regulation of fluids and blood pressure. And if you drink the full dairy version, you’re getting a punch of calcium and vitamins A, B2, and B12, which are all great for overall performance. Drink up!
Hot Cocoa
I have long been a supporter of the health benefits of chocolate, so now it’s time for hot cocoa to shine. Runners can rest easy knowing that cocoa powder provides plenty of fiber and iron, while also acting as an antioxidant. The polyphenols in cocoa can lead to reduction in inflammation, blood pressure, and blood sugar, while improving blood flow and cholesterol. Also, chocolate can make us happy, and happy runners are the best runners, All we need to know is if you’d prefer whipped cream or marshmallows.
What are your favorite holiday treats and how are they beneficial to you as a runner?
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I love cookies in every variation! Unfortunately, there’s nothing really beneficial about them other than carbohydrates for running fuel.
Your point about Gingerbread cookies reminded me of a drink that I recently discovered: kombucha with ginger and lemon. Not only delicious but also very healthy!
This is great to know! I am not a fan of eggnog but I’ve already had a few cups of hot cocoa this month.
I love all these things, so this is great information. Not to be the buzz kill, but for this RA sufferer, the sugar is the issue–it definitely increases my inflammation. But everything in moderation, right?
Everything in moderation all year round! Love the seasonal twist on this
Glad to hear. I love egg nog.
Ha, I like your attitude! Bring on the treats! I’m actually eating gingerbread waffles right now- for that anti-inflammatory benefits of course! In all seriousness, I don’t believe in depriving ourselves. I like to make “healthier” versions of things- like my waffles are sweetened with monk fruit and stevia (Wendy’s previous comment is absolutely correct) but they’re still delicious and the gingerbread flavor shines through. YUM!
I love that you found something healthy and positive in these treats. Everything in moderation.
Love this! Yesterday we had gingerbread smoothies with candy canes for supper! Delish and tasted really Christmassy!
You know I drink my hot chocolate year round.
I am a big fan of ginger — I actually use dark chocolate covered ginger before some runs & in halfs, but I have to agree with someone else — nothing wrong with cookies as a treat, but I not so sure they’re actually beneficial health wise. I do ut ginger in my oatmeal, for instance. Along with cardamom, cinnamon & a little Chile powder in the colder season — all warming spices with health benefits & they taste good too!
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Gingerbread is my favorite holiday cookie! I would eat it anyway but it’s nice to know the ginger and molasses can give an extra boost.