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PCOS diet plan for marathon training

Training for a marathon with PCOS? It’s a unique challenge, but totally doable. Your diet can help manage PCOS symptoms while fueling those long runs. Think of it as finding a balance between foods that keep your hormones in check and those that boost your stamina. Eating right can make those miles feel a bit easier and your body more resilient. So, let’s lace up those sneakers and dive in!

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Kale
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Zucchini
  • Blueberries
  • Strawberries
  • Apples
  • Avocado
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice

  • Oats
  • Chickpeas
  • Lentils
  • Black beans
  • Chicken breast
  • Salmon
  • Lean ground turkey
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts

  • Olive oil
  • Chia seeds
  • Flax seeds
  • Whole wheat pasta
  • Cauliflower
  • Bell peppers
  • Carrots
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cottage cheese
  • Bananas
  • Almond butter

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on June 16, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

pcos diet plan for marathon training focuses on providing balanced nutrition to support endurance and stamina while managing PCOS symptoms. This plan emphasizes complex carbs like whole grains for sustained energy, lean proteins for muscle repair, and healthy fats for overall well-being. Adding anti-inflammatory foods like berries and leafy greens can help reduce PCOS symptoms and enhance recovery.

It's also important to monitor and balance electrolytes, especially potassium and magnesium, which can be depleted during long runs. Hydration is crucial, so include plenty of water and electrolyte drinks. This diet should be customized to fit your training schedule, energy needs, and PCOS management goals.

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Foods to eat

  • Complex Carbohydrates: Quinoa, brown rice, and oats for sustained energy during long runs.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, and fish to help repair muscles post-training.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, and chia seeds to support overall energy and hormone balance.
  • Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and broccoli for essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Electrolyte-rich Foods: Bananas, oranges, and coconut water to prevent cramping and dehydration.
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Studies find that people who east nuts five times per week have a decreased risk of developing heart disease compared to those who do not eat nuts at all.

Marc Gillinov, M.D., Steven Nissen, M.D.

Foods not to eat

  • Refined Sugars: Avoid candy, soda, and sugary cereals that cause energy crashes.
  • Trans Fats: Steer clear of fried foods, margarine, and processed snacks that can increase inflammation.
  • High Glycemic Index Foods: Limit white bread, pasta, and pastries that spike blood sugar levels.
  • Artificial Sweeteners: Avoid diet sodas and low-calorie sweeteners, which can disrupt metabolism.
  • Excessive Caffeine: Cut down on energy drinks and strong coffee, which can interfere with hydration and sleep.

Main benefits

The PCOS diet plan for marathon training provides energy-dense, PCOS-friendly foods for sustained endurance. It includes low-GI carbohydrates that help maintain stable blood sugar during long runs. This diet supports muscle recovery with high-protein, allergen-free foods. You'll also benefit from enhanced hydration and nutrient replenishment tailored for marathon training.

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📊 50% of Americans said they follow a specific diet or eating pattern (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Buy carb-rich foods like rice, pasta, and oats in bulk to fuel your training economically. They’re cheap, versatile, and provide the energy you need. Incorporate nutrient-dense but affordable foods like bananas and sweet potatoes for sustained energy.

Make your own energy bars or gels using simple ingredients to save money compared to commercial products. Look for sales on lean proteins and stock up when prices are low, freezing portions for use in muscle-repairing meals post-training.

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Meal Plan for PCOS Diet Plan for Marathon Training

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with strawberries, chia seeds, and walnuts
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and grilled chicken breast
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Calories: 1600  Fat: 60g   Carbs: 180g   Protein: 90g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, flax seeds, and almonds
  • Lunch: Kale and avocado salad with cherry tomatoes, carrots, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Lean ground turkey stir-fry with zucchini, bell peppers, and brown rice
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with a banana

Calories: 1650  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 170g   Protein: 95g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, almond butter, and flax seeds
  • Lunch: Whole wheat pasta with cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and lean ground turkey
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with quinoa, kale, and roasted cauliflower
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries

Calories: 1700  Fat: 70g   Carbs: 175g   Protein: 100g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Quinoa porridge with blueberries, chia seeds, and almonds
  • Lunch: Spinach salad with grilled chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and avocado
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice, kale, and roasted zucchini
  • Snack: Apple slices with walnuts

Calories: 1550  Fat: 60g   Carbs: 170g   Protein: 95g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with chia seeds, blueberries, and walnuts
  • Lunch: Chickpea and quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach
  • Dinner: Stir-fried lean ground turkey with cauliflower, carrots, and whole wheat pasta
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with strawberries

Calories: 1600  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 160g   Protein: 90g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with banana, flax seeds, and almond butter
  • Lunch: Salad with kale, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and black beans
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, and quinoa
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with apple slices

Calories: 1650  Fat: 68g   Carbs: 175g   Protein: 95g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, blueberries, chia seeds, and almond butter
  • Lunch: Spinach and quinoa salad with bell peppers, carrots, and chickpeas
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice, zucchini, and kale
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with walnuts

Calories: 1700  Fat: 72g   Carbs: 170g   Protein: 100g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.