Energy

stephaniejjenkins

I do not have near the energy to do as much running as I did prior to following a low calorie diet. Suggestions? I usually have coffee (no sugar) and a scoop of peanut butter first.

sijomial

Don't cut your calories too low.
Don't cut your carbs too low.

Not sure why you are choosing PB as a pre-run fuel, that's an odd choice if you are looking for an energy boost.

spiriteagle99

Something with carbs like a banana or piece of toast would probably be better for your energy than peanut butter. I find eating fat before a run upsets my stomach. A light carb beforehand sits much better.

RunsWithBees

I skip breakfast entirely and run on an empty stomach because I can’t stand to feel anything sloshing around in my stomach while I run. I have been maintaining for years but just out of curiosity I tried keto for supposed satiety. During the 6 months I was on keto I could run my regular schedule but it required much much more effort, like I was running through molasses every time... and I felt like I just generally didn’t have any energy. Well, for unrelated reasons I stopped the keto and as soon as I started eating carbs again I immediately felt my energy levels return and my running went back to normal again. I learned that my body just likes/needs carbs and keto is not for me, not to mention it did absolutely nothing for my satiety during those 6 months. Not sure what your diet looks like or what your calorie deficit is so I can only offer my personal experience from one runner to another also make sure you mention it to your doctor because low energy can be a symptom of so many issues. I had a full workup with my doc because I do have thyroid and anemia problems but in my case those levels were fine and it was just that my body craved carbs. Good luck

DancingMoosie

I do better with fruit before a run or fruit with nuts/nut butter is fine. I had an egg last week and that was not good. I kept burping egg and felt like it was stuck up high instead of digesting.

lorrpb

It’s possible you may not be eating enough overall. Can you share more details so people can help you:
How many calories do you eat per day?
How much are you trying to lose weekly?
Are you eating back your exercise calories?

steph6556

I’m so thankful that you asked this question and after reading all the very informative responses I now know why my runs have felt like crap lately! When I wasn’t cutting or watching my calorie intake quite so hard I used to run with ease. My calories are now 1490 with a .5 per week loss and I always eat back my workout calories ( about 400 ) and still I feel sluggish but I push through anyway. After reading these helpful suggestions I’m going to bump up my carb intake which I’ve been avoiding. That’s why I love this community