Healthy Energy Bars
6 Energy Bars to Fuel Your Training
Choose the right snack before, during, or after your run for power and healing
By
Kelly Bastone
Image: Mitch Mandel
Postrun Immunity Boost
The high mileage needed to train for a marathon (related: Beginner's Marathon Training Plan) or ultra makes you susceptible to colds and the flu. Good time to try an antioxidant-packed bar. "The more intense your exercise is, the more you need antioxidants to help you recover," says Gidus. "There's good research suggesting that selenium, vitamin E, and other antioxidants help protect the immune system." Nuts and dried fruits are rich in these antioxidants; cherries in particular contain phytochemicals, which help protect against cancer and heart disease and help reduce inflammation.
A good bar: After a run or as a snack, try Kind's Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew Bar—it packs 50 percent of your DV for three key immune-boosting antioxidants: vitamins A, C, and E. Or eat Lärabar's Über Cherry Cobbler bar, with cherries, almonds, and pecans.
Video: Post-Workout Snack
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