I ran cross country in high school.

Above all, remain hydrated!!!!! Drinking lots of water (but not so much that you become anorexic) is very important. It's easy to become dehydrated when you run alot. I always took some with me when I ran races as well, just in case.

I would eat lots of fruits and vegetables (with some rare exceptions of vegetables like broccoli that cause gas, eat those vegetables on the days you don't run) and at least some complex carbohydrates (like whole grain cereal) for energy.

Protein is also very important in building lean muscle. You can get protein from foods like meat, eggs, fish (fish is also good for your heart, but eat it baked or broiled, not fried) and nuts.

I would shy away from too much refined sugar as it can make you feel sluggish and slow you down.

Runner's World has an article with recommendations as well. You can check it out at http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-301--10200-0,00.html.

For what not to eat, see http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15037988.

Good luck and have fun.
Source(s):
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-301--10200-0,00.html

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15037988

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