One of the best things about Future Husband’s career path (he’s studying to become a Physician of Oriental Medicine–an acupuncturist) is that he’s made tons of very nice, health-oriented friends at school.  We joined two other students and their wives (triple date night) to watch the USC vs. Ohio State game and grill out.

As dinner was cooked by a naturopathic doctor’s wife, it was–of course–completely organic, whole foods.  It was the usual Saturday night football game fare–grilled burgers and chips–but with a healthy twist.  Not a gram of HFCS or a trace of artificial sweeteners in sight!

My appetizer plates included crackers + artichoke dip (dairy free!), grapes, and watermelon. I had two of these plates, plus a few more watermelon slices.

I had a choice of grilled chicken, Mahi Mahi, salmon, or burgers for my entree.  When I heard the burgers were grass-fed, organic beef, I figured "why not!"… I’m not a huge red meat eater, but this one was delicious burger!

My main plate:  burger with organic cheddar on a WW bun, grilled zucchini, asparagus, and a side salad.

Everyone else was drinking beer and wine, but I pretty much stuck to plain water.  I feel so dehydrated from my run this AM!  I DID have a few sips of Future Husband’s Yuengling Black and Tan – yummy! 🙂

On the drive over, I had a coffee (I’m so pooped) and a handful of dried apricots.  I wasn’t sure if there would be appetizers and didn’t want to walk in completely FAMISHED!

L-Glutamine – Something New to Try?

I mentioned to one of Future Husband’s friends that my right leg has been bothering me slightly.  There’s a point on my shin that hurts when I press on it, but it doesn’t seem to be shin splits because it only hurts when I apply pressure and NOT when I’m running.  He’s a naturopathic doctor and really knows his stuff.  He told me to continue taking my calcium and magnesium supplements (which I’m not great about taking regularly).

He also recommended I try L-Glutamine.  He said it promotes a quicker muscle recovery in long-distance runners and therefore allows you to train harder.  When we got home, I did a little research and learned:

L-Glutamine is a nonessential amino acid that can be produced by the body under normal conditions. However, under periods of stress, such as intense workouts, the body may have an increased demand for this amino acid. Supplementation with L-Glutamine may be an effective way to support sufficient glutamine levels, which may aid in recovery and recuperation.   L-Glutamine may help with:

• recovery and recuperation
• protecting muscle cells from breaking down
• cell volumization.

Has anyone tried this supplement? I’m making a journey to Whole Foods tomorrow and might purchase some.  It sounds pretty wonderful….  Alright, time for bed! I’ve got an 8 miler in the morning.  Sleep tight!