Fueling Up The Runners

Runners enjoyed U.S. potato products which help them to replenish their energy levels after the run

Potatoes USA is the key sponsor for the Twincity Marathon 2022 which was held recently at Cyberjaya. 

Potato is a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides energy, fibre, potassium and Vitamin C which boost sports performances and help fuel people who lead an active lifestyle.

Recent research indicated that potatoes are found to have the nutrients that could benefit fitness buffs, marathoners and sportspersons.

The U.S. mashed potatoes served are aimed to help runners replenish energy levels and nutrients needed after the marathon.

Mr Brian D. McFeeters, the U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia is 61 years old and participated in the 21KM half marathon.

“I am delighted to see Potatoes USA as a sponsor of this marathon and glad to have the information that potatoes are healthy, high in potassium, Vitamin C and fibre – which are great for post-recovery,” quipped Mr Brian.

“So now, maybe Malaysian can get to enjoy more potatoes like what we do in the U.S.,” he continued.

Finishing at 2.27 hours, Brian showed that with a proper diet, he could still beat many younger runners in the half marathon category.

Despite his busy schedule, he exercises regularly and maintains a healthy diet with the help of U.S. potatoes.

Numerous studies had been conducted over the past 40 or 50 years also suggested that carbohydrates are a primary macronutrient for sustaining and improving athletic performance.

Nutrition Today, a US journal suggested that a balanced diet high in natural, quality carbohydrate-rich foods like nutrient-dense potatoes may be optimal for improving physical performance among elite athletes. 

Key Facts About The Potato Power

Potatoe is a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides energy, fibre, potassium and Vitamin C which boost sports performances

26 grams of carbohydrate

Potatoes are a nutrient-dense quality carbohydrate, important for optimal physical and mental performance as the primary fuel for your brain and a key source of energy for muscles.

Because our body’s own stores of carbohydrates are limited and may be depleted, even in a single session of intense and/or prolonged exercise, so it’s important to replenish them.

620 milligrams of potassium

A medium-sized (148g) potato, with the skin-on, provides more potassium than a banana, no fat, no sodium, and no cholesterol.

Potatoes are perfect for aiding muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function during long endurance events.

30% of the daily value of Vitamin C

Potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C which helps to boost the immune system and aids in collagen production, a major muscle tissue component.

3 grams of plant-based protein

Protein is a key component of muscle and an important nutrient for performance.

2 grams of fibre (7% daily value)

Fibre helps regulate blood glucose and increase satiety, making one feel full longer.

110 calories for energy

Easily digestible and more energy dense than any other popular vegetable, potatoes are a good choice to fuel the demands of racing a marathon.

Potatoes USA Powers Up Twincity Marathon 2022

Runners enjoyed U.S. potato products to help them replenish their energy levels after the run

The U.S. potato personnel handed their products to the 4,000 runners in both the full and half marathons categories.

Educational materials on potato power nutrition to improve sports performance were also distributed at the event.