Snacking secrets of Olympic athletes

Leg cramps can cripple an athlete, so preventing them is essential to performing at peak potential.  (iStock)

Nuts and dried fruit are a great source of magnesium. When combined with the potassium in dried fruit, these snacks can combat even the most intense cramping. For convenience, go for a whole-food bar, like KIND with simple ingredients you can pronounce.  Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson carries whole nut and fruit bars like KIND at all times ward off cramps. 

Bananas, raisins and apricots provide rich sources of potassium, combating mineral deficiencies that lead to cramping.    (AP)

To get that final push of energy when crossing the finish line, loading up on carbohydrates is key, and sometimes a burst of sugar can do the trick. 

Many runners will pop a few jelly beans as they near the finish line for a surge of pure sugar that provides immediate energy. 

Beet juice is purported to increase stamina by increasing the nitric acid in the body, which reduces the energy requirements of muscles. Olympic marathoner Ryan Hall found beet juice to be the solution to his chronic fatigue. 

To get that final push of energy when crossing the finish line, loading up on carbohydrates is key, and sometimes a burst of sugar can do the trick. 

Many runners will pop a few jelly beans as they near the finish line for a surge of pure sugar that provides immediate energy. 

Beet juice is purported to increase stamina by increasing the nitric acid in the body, which reduces the energy requirements of muscles. Olympic marathoner Ryan Hall found beet juice to be the solution to his chronic fatigue.