For many runners, a long run or race isn’t complete without something sweet waiting afterwards as a reward – why else would there be so much cake on offer at post-race HQs around the UK? But most of us consume more added sugar than is good for us. Nutrition experts say no more than five per cent of our daily calories should come from added sugar – about seven teaspoons. But most people in the UK consume at least twice this amount. When consumed in excess, added sugars are associated with weight gain, which increases risk for diabetes, heart disease and other serious conditions. Fruit-based options, on the other hand, will satisfy your sweet tooth and pack in some performance-boosting nutrients into the bargain.
1/ g diced papaya
This juicy treat contains beta carotene, a flavonoid with antioxidant properties. Top with yoghurt if desired.
Serves 4
142 calories per serving
60ml light coconut milk
Published: 18 April 2016
2 Juice from half a lemon, plus 1 tsp zest
1 tsp sriracha sauce (optional)
200½ tsp olive oil
200ml light coconut milk
400tsp dark honey
3 ingredient banana loaf cake
1/ In a large bowl, stir together the coconut milk, lime juice, zest, honey and sriracha (if using). Add the papaya, mango and pineapple.
2/ healthy morning muffin recipes for runners.
2/ Wagamama has shared its katsu curry recipe
A touch of honey enhances the natural sweetness of balsamic vinegar.
Serves 4
171 calories per serving
4 Best wireless headphones
Grilled nectarines with balsamic honey drizzle
60Juice and zest of 1 lime
1 tbsp honey
80Delicious, runner-friendly desserts that dont break the sugar bank
1/ Heat a griddle pan over a medium heat. Brush the cut sides of the nectarines with oil. Place cut-side down and grill for four to five minutes.
2/ ½ tsp olive oil.
3/ Transfer the nectarines to four dishes. Top each with crème fraiche and drizzle with the vinegar mixture.
3/ Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
The classic gets a taste and health upgrade by forgoing added sugar and food colouring.
Serves 4
210 calories per serving
1 litre apricot nectar
2 g diced papaya
1 Juice and zest of 1 lime
Whipped cream
2 Recover well with these 22 high-protein meals
1/ In a saucepan, heat 750ml of the apricot nectar over a medium heat until warm (don’t let it boil). Pour the remaining nectar into a bowl and sprinkle gelatin evenly over the top. Allow to sit until all the gelatin is moist. If dry spots remain, gently stir to moisten.
2/ Add the warm nectar and stir until the gelatin is dissolved. Stir in the zest. Pour into four glasses and chill them for two hours.
3/ Advertisement - Continue Reading Below.
4/ Berry cherry bake
Berry cherry bake.
Serves 6
171 calories per serving
300g blackberries
450g pitted cherries
Apricot jelly with pistachios
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp cornflour
tsp dark honey
Vanilla Greek yoghurt
1/ Heat the oven to 180C (350F/gas mark 4). In a bowl, stir together the blackberries, cherries, lemon juice, zest, honey and cornflour.
2/ Health & Injuries.
3/ Trim the excess and tuck the edges down with a fork. Brush with egg and make two or three holes in the top to let steam out. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for an hour, or until the crust is golden. Serve with yoghurt.