Carrie Berk Argues Protein Is Essential for Marathon Recovery

Carrie Berk Argues Protein Is Essential for Marathon Recovery

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Carrie Berk argues for protein-focused recovery after NYC Marathon

In a column for the NY Post, commerce reporter Carrie Berk argues that the key to recovering from the physical toll of the New York City Marathon lies in a strategic approach to nutrition, specifically the inclusion of protein to support muscle function.

As the 2026 New York City Marathon concludes, the roughly 60,000 athletes who participated face the immediate challenge of physical soreness and muscle fatigue. Berk, writing from her own perspective as a marathoner, suggests that while strength training and long-distance runs are the pillars of preparation, many runners overlook the nutritional requirements necessary to bounce back effectively.

The importance of this dietary shift is rooted in the biological demands of endurance sports. Berk notes that a combination of carbohydrates and protein is essential during the training phase to prevent running out of fuel during the race itself. She shares a personal setback from her first marathon in 2022, during which she stopped consuming food toward the end of her run due to nausea, an action that resulted in her feeling seriously ill afterward.

To avoid similar outcomes, Berk advocates for a routine that incorporates more food rather than less, specifically highlighting the role of protein powder during weight-lifting sessions. This recommendation aligns with scientific findings regarding muscle maintenance.

“Protein intake is important to maximize muscular function during resistance exercise.”

This finding, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, suggests that boosting protein consumption can assist in increasing lean body mass and strength over the long term.

The role of plant-based supplements in athlete diets

Berk points to Veracity Health’s Metabolic Power Protein as a specific tool for managing the dietary needs of marathoners. She notes that the product is a clean, plant-based formula developed by a medical advisory team consisting of 11 doctors. The supplement provides 20 grams of complete plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids without added sugar.

One of the primary physiological hurdles for marathoners is bloating, which Berk suggests can be exacerbated by the increased carbohydrate intake required as race day approaches. To address this, the Metabolic Power Protein includes a digestive enzyme blend intended to reduce bloating. The product is also noted to be vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and composed of organic ingredients.

The utility of such supplements extends beyond mere muscle repair to metabolic management. Berk writes that the powder is designed to help manage cravings and maintain satiety, which may assist athletes in avoiding mid-day energy crashes and supporting a healthy metabolism.

The effectiveness of these dietary adjustments is often reflected in user experiences. Berk cites feedback from shoppers who found the protein powder easy to mix with water and noted it provided a sense of fullness that eliminated the need for mid-morning snacks. One user specifically mentioned the product’s palatable texture, contrasting it with the “chalky” consistency often found in other plant-based options.

For those currently navigating the aftermath of the race, Berk’s advice is direct: athletes should focus on folding protein into their daily routines to facilitate a quicker recovery and support long-term athletic goals.

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