Wednesday, July 27, 2011

A Wonky Run & Super Peanuts?

My run this morning was really strange. It was as cool as could be wished for this week (70 degrees) and I was feeling pretty good when I left the apartment. But throughout my run I'd feel strong for a bit, then out of no where my legs would feel like lead. There was a strong headwind while I was running north along the river, which didn't help and my hips were really tight. I think I've been tensing up when I run for some reason, so I'm trying to be conscious of that. Overall, it was a pretty wonky run but I'm sure my next run will be better.


You might remember that back in April I posted about a New York Road Runners Young Professionals Committee event on nutrition for runners lead by Lauren Slayton from FoodTrainers.


Lauren's presentation focused on 10 essential foods for runners (see the list HERE). The first one on the list caught my eye immediately because 1) I love peanuts, and 2) I had never heard of this type of peanut. What was first on the list? Amazonian Jungle Peanuts.


Huh? 


According to Lauren, the Amazonian Jungle Peanut is higher in protein than any conventional nut (1oz has 7grams of protein) and they contain all 8 essential amino acids. Additionally, they are a good source of calcium, iron, oleic acid (meaning they're heart healthy) and Vitamin E. Because they also have anti-inflammatory properties, they're a good recovery food too. These nuts are harvested in a sustainable manner and are free of aflatoxin (I had no idea regular peanuts have toxic fungi).


Like I said, I had never heard of these and I spend my fair share of time in the grocery store and natural food stores. I also eat more peanuts and peanut butter than any normal person probably should, so I thought I would have run across these at some point. Well, after this event I had been keeping my eye out for these jungle peanuts because I was curious and had to try them. Well, I finally found them at a health food store and even though they were a bit pricey, I got them. And told Woody they were special peanuts, not to be eaten by the handful like the regular peanuts we eat!





They definitely look different than regular peanuts. I have trouble comparing them to anything as they have a similar texture to nuts but the taste is a bit bolder than typical peanuts. We've used them in salads mostly, but I imagine they can be used just about any way regular peanuts are, like a delicious trail mix (which is also easy to eat after a long run or race).


While they are more expensive than regular peanuts, I did find them to be less expensive than pistachios and definitely pine nuts. I suggest you keep an eye out for them and give them a try. And even if you don't like conventional peanuts, you may like these.
  • Have you tried jungle peanuts? What did you think?
  • What's your favorite super food?
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Today's workout -
3.5mile run
125 ab exercises
2x40 sec planks
stretching

5 comments:

Vanessa @ Gourmet Runner said...

I've read about these before, but never seen them in stores or tried them. I'm really curious! I'll have to pick them up for myself.

misszippy said...

I've read about these too and would love to try them. Where did you find them?

NY Wolve said...

Ok, I give up, never seen them before. Where did you find them in NYC? Ever been to Westerly Market on 8th and 54th -- lots of lots of healthy things.

Keri @ Blue-Eyed Runner said...

Looks like a great workout! Sorry you had a wonky run :)

Lisa said...

I found them at Health Nuts on 2nd between 44th and 45th. The store is generally pretty expensive (especially bulk items) but these seemed reasonable and I hadn't seen them anywhere so I got them. You can also order online.

@NY Wolve - I used to work a few blocks from Westerly and went there at least twice a week. Great store. Last time I was there though, it was all boarded up. Is it open again?