These Underrated Nutrients Can Make or Break Marathon Performance, Sports Dietician Says

Carbs and salt: the two holy grails of pre-marathon fueling. Anyone with a few races under their belt knows that carb loading is essential for topping off glycogen stores, while salt helps your body retain fluid and maintain blood volume as the miles slowly tick by. But that’s not where race-day fuel preparation should stop.

Several key nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, also support proper hydration and muscle function. Plus, eating nitrate-rich foods before the race can help promote better blood flow...