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Distance bicycling on low carbs

jeffrubic
jeffrubic Posts: 2
edited February 25 in Fitness and Exercise
Does anyone here have experience with long distance endurance activities (running, cycling, adventure races, etc.) on a low carb diet?

Background: After 12 years of ultracycling, I'm finding it difficult to keep my weight off, despite riding hundreds of miles each month - even in the winter. So I'm switching to low carbs, which won't be a problem for short rides (25-30 miles).

But for rides of 100 miles or more I would typically consume 200-300 kcal/hr, usually in the form of gels, energy bars, energy drinks or carb-rich foods (e.g. bananas, sandwiches). I'm interested in alternatives to these carb-rich food sources, perhaps nuts, cheese, and beef jerky.

Any real world experience from endurance athletes?

Replies

  • jeffrubic
    jeffrubic Posts: 2
    Replying to my own question, I discovered the following book, available in paperback and on Kindle:

    The Art and Science of Low Carb Performance by Jeff Volek & Stephen Phinney
    http://www.amazon.com/The-Art-Science-Carbohydrate-Performance-ebook/dp/B008BYG7RW/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
  • Sam_I_Am77
    Sam_I_Am77 Posts: 2,093 Member
    Checkout the Anabolic Diet by Mauro DiPasquale. It's more like carb-cycling then straight low-carb but it's specifically for people that train, though not necessarily endurance athletes.
  • mydeloo78
    mydeloo78 Posts: 328 Member
    You could also try looking at Paleo for athletes. Although I am not a Paleo fan, it basically says carbs are okay right before, during or after exercise. Even on this no grain diet.
  • Rainrider22
    Rainrider22 Posts: 1 Member
    I try to minimize my carbohydrate intake, but when I'm on a long ride (50-100 miles) I find a mid-ride bagel gives me a remarkable boost. Carbs are not universally evil - used appropriately, they can really help boost endurance (as I'm sure you know). Try replacing the gels and energy drinks with actual food.
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