Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness

by Scott Jurek

Strawburst Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie I have always shied away from using pharmaceutical agents like ibuprofen to treat pain and swelling, so it’s natural that I have experimented with natural anti-inflammatories. When I sprained my ankle days before the 2007 Hardrock, my experiments took on a new urgency. This smoothie combines the anti-inflammatory ingredients of pineapple (bromelaine), ginger, turmeric, and Flora Oil (omega-3 fatty acids). It’s a great daily postworkout drink, soothing aching muscles, and a terrific addition to your regular meals before your run on a long training day. It has a fruity, sweet taste like Starburst candy and is loaded with healthy fats as well as carbohydrates and protein. The miso replaces the salt and electrolytes lost in sweat. In Japan, miso is viewed as an endurance-booster. Edamame provides an extra whole-food protein boost. Fresh turmeric root can be found in the produce section of natural foods stores. You will need a high-powered blender to process the roots. If you don’t have one, opt for the dried turmeric and ginger. 2 cups water 1 banana 1 cup frozen or fresh strawberries ½ cup frozen mango ½ cup frozen pineapple ½ cup frozen shelled edamame ¼ cup dried coconut flakes 3 tablespoons Flora Oil 3-6-9 Blend 1 tablespoon plant protein powder (brown rice, pea, etc.) 1½ teaspoons miso 1 1-inch piece turmeric root, chopped, or teaspoon ground turmeric 1 1-inch piece ginger root,...