CHARLOTTE, NC - For the brief time that I entertained running as a hobby, bananas were a staple in my household. Dole Food Company understands the importance of the nutrient-rich banana for athletes and recently launched an interactive webpage to offer recipes and resources for runners at all levels.

“October is traditionally the busiest month of the year for marathons in the [United States], so we wanted to offer the latest recipes and resources that could empower all runners, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts to achieve their goals,” said Melanie Marcus, MA, RD, and Nutrition, Wellness, and Communications Manager. “In addition to bananas, which are well-known for their post-workout recovery benefits, we showcase the energy-boosting properties of DOLE® pineapple, broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, and all varieties of berries, as well as dates, almond butter, and peanut butter.”

The webpage, which is titled the Dole Performance Recipes and Resources Page, offers seven smoothies, snacks, sides, and energy bites rich in fresh fruits and vegetables to fuel pre-race training and aid in post-workout recovery.

These fresh, athlete-focused recipes include the following:

• Lemon Berry Smoothie
• Mocha-Banana Smoothie
• Pineapple Running Juice
• Loaded Baked Sweet Potatoes
• Plantain Guac Toast
• Banana Energy Bites
• Banana-Brownie Batter Energy Bites

Marcus noted that various research suggests bananas are as effective at delivering post-race and workout recovery as sports drinks—but at a fraction of the sugar, calories, and cost.

That’s one way to get kids eating more produce!

We’ll continue to keep you up to date on the latest in fresh, so stay tuned to ANUK.