RUNNING TRICK OR TREAT

“FUEL OR TREAT? 7 Fuel Items That Could Pass as Halloween Candy” by Emily Polacheck for Competitor.com offers some tempting items that have a fall-ish theme just perfect for this time of year.  The "All Natural Slopeside Syrup Untapped Maple Waffles"  on slide 1 look amazing! 

Such bars and snacks are conveniences to replace foods that are not close at hand when you need carbohydrates for fuel and proteins for muscle building. Often they are made of natural and/or organic ingredients,  and may contain antioxidants, electrolytes, vitamins, or minerals.  A bonus is that they may be made without high-fructose corn syrup, or be lower in total sugars. 

Eating a balanced diet low in processed foods is the IDEAL nutrition plan; and snacking in the same way would be perfection.   Sometimes that's not possible, and it's FUN to have relatively healthy treats to enjoy. However, be judicious in adding extra fuel to your daily intake, especially if you notice your weight is creeping up. All unused fuel will be stored as adipose tissue/fat. Although designed to be sources of nutrition to fuel running, they can “trick” you into taking in unneeded excess calories. As Polachek says, they can more closely resemble true candy.
 
However, if you have a craving for candy-like snacks after and during runs and wish to find lower calorie and ‘healthier’ alternatives, these items may fit the purpose and allow you to savor the extra treats without too much guilt.
 
RUN HAPPY!
 
http://running.competitor.com/2016/10/photos/fuel-treat-7-fuel-items-pass-halloween-candy_157763