i have been doing a modified atkins since march, running since july.

i have hit a wall...

i can't seem to get past 5 miles and it is a struggle just to get there. i run 5 times a week (for muscle recovery) and my average mile is 9.5 min/mi.

i have lost 40 pounds and am down to 120 lbs with a 5'3" frame.

ok....

so, i am thinking i am not eating enough carbs before i run. I am eating lots and lots of vegetable with good protein, but i have to admit, i am truly afraid to eat many carbs. i have done this diet before and gain everything back +, when i encorporated carbs again.

any suggestions? (what do I eat and the time frame before i run)
thanks!

HI there,

Well, you mentioned you are not eating as many carbs and you have trouble getting to 5 miles, but you do it....well I would say first, keep the carbs that you are eating there..you need those.. and in order for your body to recover properly you should eat a snack or drink gatorade within 15 minutes after you run....this will get the metabolism going too. Also during your run maybe pick up the pace in some spots (mile 1 and then again in mile 3 or 4)...if you do this you will burn more calories as well as become faster and more fit over time. After a few weeks you should see some improvement and hopefully getting to 5 miles will be a piece of cake. Also, if you are feeling burnt out take a day off, cross train. It is essential to give your body some rest.

What you should eat before you run...well it's up to you...you can eat anything such as: bananas, bagel, cereal, granola bar, salad, sandwich..(what I like to call runner's food)etc. Do not eat anything too heavy unless you have a few hours to digest, because that might weigh you down and you'll feel heavy. But make sure you give yourself at least an hour to digest if you're eating a full meal. I am not a doctor and do not have the 'perfect' answer, but I am a runner and have some knowledge on this stuff....hope my advice helps....

Also one more thing...in order to keep the shape you have and want..stay consistent with everything (eating and running)...if you stick with it, you'll be golden.

Good luck :)