Ahead of the TATA Mumbai Marathon 2026, sports nutritionist Sameera Sheikh shared crucial dietary guidance for runners. She recommends carb‑rich, easy‑to‑digest meals before the race and a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fluids post‑run. Participants are advised to avoid spicy, oily, high‑fibre foods, excess caffeine, and alcohol for optimal performance.
With nearly 69,000 runners preparing to take on the TATA Mumbai Marathon 2026 on January 18, nutrition has become just as important as training. According to sports nutritionist Sameera Sheikh, what runners eat before and after the race can significantly influence stamina, gut comfort, and recovery.
Sheikh emphasises that pre‑run meals should focus on glycogen loading, ensuring the body has enough stored energy to sustain long-distance running. Post‑run nutrition, she notes, is equally critical—helping replenish depleted glycogen, repair muscle tissue, and restore hydration levels.
Her guidance aims to help runners avoid mid‑race fatigue, digestive discomfort, and delayed recovery, making nutrition a strategic part of marathon preparation.
Key Highlights
Before the run:
Prioritise carb‑rich, low‑fibre, easy‑to‑digest foods.
Hydrate well but avoid overloading fluids.
After the run:
Consume a mix of carbohydrates + protein + electrolytes for recovery.
Rehydrate steadily to restore fluid balance.
Foods to avoid:
Spicy, oily, high‑fibre foods, excess caffeine, and alcohol.
Why it matters:
Supports endurance, prevents gut issues, and accelerates recovery.
Conclusion
Smart nutrition can make a decisive difference on race day. With expert-backed guidance, runners can fuel efficiently, recover faster, and enjoy a stronger performance at the TATA Mumbai Marathon 2026.
Source: Free Press Journal