Running a marathon does more to your body than just tire you out. First, you might lose up to half an inch in height during the race due to muscle tension and fluid loss between your spinal discs. Dehydration is a significant concern, with runners often shedding up to 5 kg of water weight. This is why staying hydrated is crucial—not just during the race, but for longer-term recovery. Marathon running also burns a massive amount of calories, up to 3,500, so carb-loading the night before is essential to fuel your body. During the run, your body relies on fats and carbohydrates for energy, and energy gels help replenish your stores as you go.

After the race, however, you might not feel like eating at all. This is because intense exercise suppresses hunger hormones like ghrelin, as your body focuses on more critical functions. Sleep might also be a struggle post-race, as the adrenaline rush and elevated cortisol levels can keep you awake. Other not-so-pleasant effects include chafing, bleeding nipples, and potentially losing a few toenails from all that friction. Finally, after months of training, it’s not uncommon to feel a bit low as your body adjusts to the abrupt end to your marathon preparation  Take Your Health Seriously at www.drinkbc6.com