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#175: Prof. Klaas Westerterp – Metabolism, Energy Expenditure & Weight Regulation

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Guest Bio Klaas Westerterp, PhD Prof. Klaas Westerterp is Professor of Human Energetics at Maastricht University. His field of expertise is energy metabolism, physical activity, food intake and body composition, and energy balance under controlled conditions and in daily life. He is member of the Editorial Board of the journal Nutrition and Metabolism (London) and European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, and Editor-in-Chief of the European Journal of Applied Physiology. In This Episode We Discuss: Assessing energy expenditure using doubly labelled water Defining PAL (physical activity level) Average PAL in the population vs. upper levels seen in humans Effect of factors like …

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SNR #174: Jorn Trommelen – Carbohydrate Oxidation During Exercise & Pre-Sleep Protein

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 174: Researcher from Maastrict University, Jorn Trommelen is on the show to discuss his research on the effect of glucose/fructose on carbohydrate oxidation during exercise and the effect of pre-sleep protein on muscle protein balance. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Jorn Trommelen Jorn earned his MSc in Nutrition and Health with top honors at Wageningen University & Research Centre. He is now pursuing a PhD in Muscle Metabolism at Maastricht University, at one of the leading laboratories in that field. His …

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Sparring Methodologies: To Spar, or Not To Spar, That is the Question (Part 2)

In All Articles, Blog Posts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

[IMPORTANT NOTE: As the title implies, this is Part 2 of a series. This piece can be read in isolation but a much better overall picture could be gotten by first reading Part 1 which can be found here. ] The Dark Side of Hard Sparring I wasn’t fucking around when I chose the title of this series; “to spar or not to spar, that is the question”. I did so for a very specific reason. The original line that I was playing off is of course perhaps the most famous line of all of the Shakespearean literature: “To be, or not …

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SNR #173: PJ Nestler – Training Specificity, Fight Conditioning & Pre-/Post-Training Strategies

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 173: Performance coach PJ Nestler discusses training approaches for combat sport athletes to increase their strength, speed and power so that it actually translates to improved performance in the ring/cage. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio PJ Nestler PJ is a human performance specialist with over a decade of experience preparing top athletes for competition, and a life mission to help athletes and coaches realize their true potential. Over the past ten years, PJ has trained …

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SNR #172: Ben Esgro – Thoughts on Lifting, Obsession and Fitness

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 172: Ben Esgro returns to give more philosophical thoughts on training, powerlifting, achievement and much more. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Ben Esgro, RD Ben is the founder and COO of De Novo Nutrition. The company has both consulting and supplement branches, based on objective science and ethical practice. Ben is a registered dietitian (RD), as well as having a Masters in Nutrition and Exercise Science (MS) from Marywood University. He has over 6 years experience of coaching and programming for individuals …

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SNR #171: Corey Peacock, PhD – Physical Preparation, Conditioning and Recovery for Elite MMA Athletes

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

Share this episode on Facebook Episode 171: Corey Peacock, PhD discusses how he implements science-based practices in the physical preparation of the elite MMA athletes he works with, including Anthony Johnson, Michael Chandler, Matt Mitrione and Rashad Evans. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Corey Peacock, PhD Dr. Corey Peacock is currently serving a dual role as the Head Exercise Physiologist and Performance Coach for MMA’s the Blackzilians fight camp. In this role, he is responsible for contributing physiological evaluations, strength & conditioning, and injury prevention methodologies. His …

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To Spar, or Not To Spar, That is the Question – Part 1: Intro to Sparring & Brain Trauma

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Destroying Your Meat Vehicle Vs. Developing Your Human Potential I think I have a not-so-common lens through which to view martial arts training practices. Academically, I have a degree in sport and exercise sciences. Athletically, I started boxing just over 6 years ago, quite late in boxing terms, as a 21 year old. I have been lucky enough to have spent time training in gyms from Holland to San Francisco, Ireland to Boston and so on. This has primarily been practising boxing but more recently it has involved dipping my toes into the MMA world. And so this is where the …

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SNR #170: Aadam Ali – Challenging Biases, Nutrition Philosophy & Practical Experiments with Ketogenic Dieting

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 170: Aadam Ali of Physiquinomics is on to discuss his personal diet experiements, what he learnt and some philosophies on nutrition and training. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Aadam Ali Aadam writes fitness-related content over at his site Physiqonomics. He writes about his philosophies on nutrition, training and all things physique related. He also self-experiments with different approaches and reports the results. These have included periods of time eating various iterations of a ketogenic …

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SNR #169: Chad Macias – Cancer Metabolism & Caution Over Ketogenic Diet/Ketones

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 169: Molecular physiologist Chad Macias, of the Institute for Human Kinetics, discusses some limitations of research, issues of misinterpretation and/or inaccurate communication related to research on cancer, nutritional ketosis and the press-pulse method. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Guest Bio Chad Macias Chad is currently pursuing post-graduate research in Molecular Oncology. He is in the process of writing a review paper on ketogenic diets and cancer, along with Brad Dieter and Tim Sharpe. Chad has spent …

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SNR #168: Powerlifting Weight Classes, Cutting Weight & Long-Term Thinking – Sigma Team Discussion

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 168: The Sigma coaching team sit down to discuss issues related to selecting a powerlifting weight class, progression over the long-term and the pros and cons of cutting weight. For more info on the Sigma coaches go here: https://sigmanutrition.com/coaches/ Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Links & Resources REFERENCE: Von Loon paper stating skeletal muscle turnover rates of 1-2% per day ARTICLE: Which Weight Class Is Best For You? – Greg Nuckols VIDEO: Sigma Coaching Team Discussion – Process-Based …

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SNR #167: Dom D’agostino, PhD – Traumatic Brain Injury, CTE & Implications for Combat Sport Athletes

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 167: Dominic D’Agostino, PhD returns to the show to discuss issues related to traumatic brain injury (including CTE) and associations with contact sports such as boxing, MMA and American football. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Dominic D’Agostino, Ph.D. Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. He is also a Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and …

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#166: Stephan Guyenet, PhD – The Neuroscience of Overeating & Regulation of Calorie Balance

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Guest Bio Stephan Guyenet, Ph.D. Stephan is an obesity researcher, neurobiologist, and author. In addition to his research, he enjoys synthesizing and communicating science for a general audience over at his hugely successful blog. Stephan has a BS. in biochemistry (University of Virginia) and a PhD in neurobiology (University of Washington). He recently published the fantastic book ‘The Hungry Brain’, which dives into the causes of obesity from the perspective of overeating and related brain chemistry. In This Episode We Discuss: What drives us to eat and specifically what drives us to overeat? Why are “trigger” foods different amongst individuals? Smoking …

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Creatine: Common Questions Answered

In All Articles, Blog Posts by Danny Lennon11 Comments

Introduction In November 2015, Sigma Nutrition founder Danny Lennon published this outstanding article. The motivation for this piece stemmed from a ridiculous opinion piece written by Irish rugby journalist Neil Francis, essentially implicating creatine as a potential player in the tragic and premature death of All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu. Danny’s rebuttal was spot on and made me incredibly proud to be associated with him. In addition, the number of shares the article received at the time put a beaming smile on my face and gave me a glimmer of hope as to the level of intelligence of the human race. …

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SNR #165: Kevin Hall, PhD – Testing the Carbohydrate-Insulin Model & a Response to Gary Taubes

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon5 Comments

Share this episode on Facebook Episode 165: Kevin Hall, PhD of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is on the podcast to discuss his work examining the carbohydrate-insulin model of obesity and responds to recent comments on the issue by Gary Taubes. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Kevin Hall, Ph.D. Dr. Hall is a Senior Investigator in the Laboratory of Biological Modeling at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Kevin’s laboratory investigates how metabolism and the brain adapt in response to …

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Tips on How To Be an Awesome Coaching Client

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[Introductory note from Danny: As coaches* we always ask ourselves a number of questions: How can I be the best coach I can be for this client? What attributes would make me a better coach? How can I make the coaching process as smooth and beneficial for this person as possible? etc. But coaching is a two-way street. If we all want to get the most out of any experience we have working with a coach, then there are a number of things that we can do as coaching clients to improve the experience, to get more benefit from it and …

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SNR #164: Dominic D’Agostino, PhD – Press-Pulse Model of Cancer Therapy, Ketones & Metabolic Drugs

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon2 Comments

Share this episode on Facebook Episode 164: Dominic D’Agostino, PhD of the University of South Florida and the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition discusses his lab’s research onto various treatment therapies for cancer including nutritional ketosis, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and metabolic drugs. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Dominic D’Agostino, Ph.D. Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. He is also a …

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SNR #163: Mental Limitations to Making Progress

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 163: Danny discusses some mental limitations to making progress. Namely they are: being unwilling to embrace the mundanely uncomfortable, an inability to invest in the long-term process and being unwilling to “do the work” without constant validation. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Links & Resources The War of Art – Steven Pressfield VIDEO: Sigma Coaching Team Discussion – Process-Based Progress, Coachability & Other Stuff  VIDEO: Tracking Metrics With Sigma Coaching Clients Sigma Weight Cutting System for MMA & Boxing Enjoy this …

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SNR #162: Andrew Chappell, PhD – Examining Contest Prep Strategies Followed by Natural Bodybuilders

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Episode 162: Andrew Chappell, PhD of Sheffield Hallam University is on the show to discuss preliminary data looking into different nutritional strategies followed by natural bodybuilders. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Andrew Chappell, PhD. Andrew is a Pro Natural Bodybuilder who has been training and competing for over 10 years. He competes with the Drug Free Athletes Coalition in professionally sanctioned contests and is previously a five time British Champion with the British Natural Bodybuilding Federation as well as a …

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SNR 161: Rob Lipsett – Building a Physique, Staying on Track When Travelling & Lessons from Competing

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 161: Dublin-based coach and fitness entrepreneur Rob Lipsett is on the show to discuss his journey, philosophies and work with clients. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Guest Bio Rob Lipsett is a personal trainer, physique competitor and fitness entrepreneur. Rob has built a loyal following based on giving insights into his own training and lifestyle, blended with handing out solid evidence-based information. In This Episode We Discuss: Lessons learned from competing in natural physique competition Advice for …

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SNR #160: Tools That Have Been Invaluable to My Life

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 160: Danny discusses tools that have been invaluable to him in life across 5 categories: non-nutrition books, tracking, creation, living life and asking yourself questions. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Links & Resources Stumbling on Happiness – Daniel Gilbert The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life – Mark Manson The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck (Blog Post) The Compound Effect – Darren Hardy Bar Sense …

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SNR #159: Phil Graham – The Diabetic’s Guide to Muscle, Fat Loss & Fitness

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 159: Author of the Diabetic Muscle and Fitness Guide, Phil Graham, returns to the show to discuss how diabetics should eat and exercise if they want to gain muscle, lose fat or be healthy, without having their condition hold them back. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Phil Graham is the author of The Diabetic Muscle & Fitness Guide. Phil, a type 1 diabetic since his teenage years, has established himself as a highly respected competitive bodybuilder, performance nutritionist and personal trainer …

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SNR #158: Alex Ritson – Adaptive Thermogenesis, Thrifty Genes & Hedonic Eating

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 158: Alex Ritson dives into the metabolic adaptations that occur with dieting (and overfeeding), the implications of this for the dieter and how this can explain the differences between individuals in their response to a diet. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts   Alex Ritson   Alex is a part of the online nutrition and training coaching company Lean Body Performance as the nutritionist and co-founder. He has gained certification with the International Society of Sport Nutrition, been a published author …

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SNR #156: 7 Philosophical Lessons from the Podcast in 2016 (End of Year Review)

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Episode 156: We end 2016 with a review of some of my favourite philosophical lessons that I have taken from a number of podcast guests this year. These are key ideas or lessons that I think can be powerful to bear in mind. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Mindset Over Tools and Knowledge vs. Doing – Dan Pardi (ep. 131) Why Real Science Matters – Kevin Folta, PhD (ep. 120) Re-framing Failure & Self-Responsibility – Ryan Doris (ep. 114) Obsession is Good – …

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SNR #154: Jeff Rothschild, RD – Intermittent Fasting, Time-Restricted Feeding & Circadian Biology

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon3 Comments

Share this episode on Facebook Episode 154: Jeff Rothschild discusses the science and application of fasting protocols, meal timing, time-restricted feeding and their effects on circadian rhythms and health. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Guest Bio Jeff Rothschild, MSc., RD Jeff Rothschild is a Registered Dietitian (RD) with a Master’s degree in Nutritional Science. He works with a variety of clients including elite ATP and NCAA tennis players, endurance athletes, boxers, swimmers, and a number of touring musicians at TriFit in Santa Monica, CA. …

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#153: Dan Garner – Hydration Status, Electrolytes & Athlete Lab Analysis

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Dan Garner is the owner and founder of Team Garner and is the head strength coach and nutrition specialist for hockeytraining.com. Specializing and delivering consistent world class results in physique transformation and athletic performance, Dan has worked with many athletes from the youth leagues right up to the NHL, NFL, MLB and UFC. He is an international lecturer on sports nutrition and has been featured in several major media outlets. In addition to his coaching services, he has created many online products available for purchase and is a bestselling author on Amazon, as well as being a contributor to Alan Aragon’s …

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SNR #152: Lyle McDonald – Glycaemic Load, Trigger Foods & Physiology vs. Practical Implementation

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 152: Lyle McDonald is back on the show to discuss glycaemic load, trigger foods, behavioural eating, hyperpalatability and the difference between giving practical recommendations and what is correct from a physiological perspective. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Lyle McDonald Lyle McDonald is the author of the Ketogenic Diet, the Rapid Fat Loss Handbook and the Guide to Flexible Dieting. He has been interested in all aspects of human performance physiology since becoming involved in competitive …

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SNR #150: Are You Really a “Hard-Gainer”? – 5 Reasons For Not Gaining Weight

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Episode 150: Sigma coach Gar Benn lays out 5 reasons that really explain the notion of “hard-gainers” giving rise to some people feeling they can’t gain weight/muscle.  Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Sigma Nutrition & Performance Coaching Program Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support the podcast on Patreon

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SNR 149: Mike Israetel, PhD – Evidence-Based Healthy Eating Principles

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 149: Mike Israetel, PhD discusses the hierarchy of nutritional factors that have an affect on health, how this differs from just body composition goals and how to avoid getting married to any one diet method. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Guest Bio Mike Israetel, PhD Mike Israetel is currently a professor of Exercise Science at Temple University in Philadelphia, as well consulting nutritional and training for elite strength and combat athletes around the world. Mike is the head science consultant for Renaissance Periodization, where …

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Your Powerlifting Meet Preparation Checklist – Part 3

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Introduction Welcome back to part three of this article series. In part 1 I discussed choosing the right meet for you if you’re fairly new to the sport as well as what to prepare for the day of a meet. Then in part 2, I outlined the thought process involved in choosing the right weight class for you as well as being realistic with your goals for your first few meets. In this part I will provide a synopsis of the running of a Powerlifting meet (i.e. what to expect on the day). Click here to download all three parts …

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Your Powerlifting Meet Preparation Checklist – Part 2

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Introduction In part one of this series I discussed how to select the right meet for you as well as what to bring to the venue on the day. In part two, I will discuss picking the right weight class for you as well as having realistic and sensible goals if you are relatively new to the sport. Picking the Right Weight Class For You I). Intermediate and advanced lifters I going to address this one first because I think it’s a little more straight forward (and most intermediate and advanced lifters are likely aware of this already). Greg Nuckols has …

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Your Powerlifting Meet Preparation Checklist – Part 1

In Blog Posts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

IntroductionIn recent years there has been a continued explosion in the popularity of powerlifting, particularly raw (unequipped) lifting. The purpose of this 3-part series of articles is to inform people new or relatively new to powerlifting on what to prepare themselves for on the day of a meet. I would hope that this guide will be of use to both those thinking of entering their first meet, as well as more experienced competitors. I would also like to preface this article with the caveat that I am speaking from the perspective of being a lifter and coach in the Irish Powerlifting …

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SNR #148: Roundtable with the Sigma Team! – Hosted by HPA

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Episode 148: This was a round-table discussion with the Sigma Nutrition & Performance team, hosted and produced by Human Performance Advancement. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Human Performance Advancement Sigma Nutrition & Performance Coaching Service Sigma Weight Cutting System Ruiz et al. 2008 – Study on strength and risk of death SNR #87: Dr. Brendan Egan – Anabolic Resistance, Sarcopenia & The Importance of Muscle Watch this discussion on YouTube Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support the podcast on Patreon

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Never Waste An Injury: The Psychology of Setbacks in Combat Sports

In All Articles, Blog Posts by Danny Lennon4 Comments

LET US IMAGINE A SCENARIO… You are progressing on your martial arts journey and greatly enjoying the process. All the pieces are falling into place. Your growth curve is beautiful. Every day at training you are picking up new skills and identifying new areas to work on. You have the momentum of a boulder rolling down a hill and you are excited about your progression. With the rate at which you are improving, you see the sky as the limit for your skills. Life is good. Then… BOOM! Some body part, that just seconds before in your mind was as indestructible as steel …

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SNR 147: Jeff Rothschild, RD – Carbohydrate Periodization for Endurance Athletes and How the Menstrual Cycle Impacts Training

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Episode 147: Sports dietitian Jeff Rothschild discusses how he implements the latest glycogen/carbohydrate availability research into pracitce with his endurance athletes, issues surround supplements on race day and how the menstrual cycle can affect programming and training performance. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Jeff Rothschild, RD, MS How to translate the latest “train low” and “recover low” strategies into practice with athletes Supplementation for endurance athletes How to schedule your supplements/nutrition on race day How the menstrual cycle affects training and nutrition considerations Eat Sleep Fit Jeff’s Instagram Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts …

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SNR #146: Is Sugar Addiction a Real Thing? (A Scientific View)

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Episode 146: Answering a listener question: “I have a sugar addiction. Every time I quit, I get sucked right back in a few months later and gain 10 lbs. What can you say to help me, besides “stop eating sugar?” Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Westwater, Fletcher & Ziauddeen,  Eur J Nutr (2016) Avena et al., Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2008; 32(1): 20–39. Hebebrand et al., Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, Volume 47, November 2014, Pages 295–306 SNR #76: Dr. Nicole Avena – The Neuroscience of Sugar Addiction & Hedonic Eating SNR #68: Stephan Guyenet – Overeating, Fat Mass Regulation & Energy Homeostasis Support the podcast …

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SNR #145: Ian Dunican, PhD – Sleep, Training Timing & Performance in Elite Athletes

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon2 Comments

Episode 145: Sleep & performance researcher Ian Dunican of the Australian Institute of Sport, discusses some of his work examining the effects of sleep, circadian disruption, training timing and travel schedules on the performance and recovery of elite level athletes.  Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Ian Dunican, PhD What does the evidence base tell us about poor sleep and the impact for athletes? Athlete sleep patterns Work examining the effects of travel schedules on sleep and performance Fatigue Avoidance Scheduling Tool Training timing & schedules effect on performance and sleep Amateur athletes  sleep and circadian rhythm disruption due to …

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SNR #143: Keith Baar, PhD – Tendon Stiffness, Collagen Production & Gelatin for Performance & Injury

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon9 Comments

Episode 143: Muscle physiology researcher Dr. Keith Baar from the University of California at Davis is on the show to discuss his teams work looking at nutrional and training strategies that can increase tendon stiffness, hence playing a role in injury prevention and the recovery process from tendon/ligament ruptures and bone/cartilage damage. Guest Bio Keith Baar, PhD Dr. Keith Baar is the head of the Functional Molecular Biology Laboratory (FMBL) in the Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and behavior. His research is focused on understanding how training and feeding result in improved muscle, tendon and ligament function. In his capacity as a researcher, he …

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Are Quarter Squats Actually a Better Option For Athletes?

In All Articles, Blog Posts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

This is a post by Arthur Lynch. Arthur is a PhD researcher in muscle physiology, an international-level raw powerlifter and coach here at Sigma Nutrition. I was recently sent a link to a T-Nation article titled “Tip: Do Quarter Squats To Boost Athleticism” (original piece here), with a request for my opinion on the conclusions drawn by the author. The article is a summary and interpretation of a recently published study by Rhea et al. (full text here). In that study the researchers compared the effect of training quarter-, half- and full-depth squats on performance in the full squat, half squat and quarter squat. …

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SNR #142: Gar Benn – Nutrition Troubleshooting, Diet Evaluations & Effective Programming

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

Episode 142: Sigma Nutrition coach Gar Benn discusses how to effectively troubleshoot your dietary approach, evaluating how to improve a diet and effively programming nutrition and training to get optimal results. Guest Bio Gar Benn Gar is an evidence-based strength coach and nutritionist. He is the owner of City Gym, a strength training facility and powerlifting club based in Limerick, Ireland. Gar is also a coach for Sigma Nutrition, where he has been doing some amazing work with our online coaching clients. Gar has worked with a very diverse population from weight gain/weight loss clients to performance clients. Gar has also …

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#141: Performance Nutrition for Fighters – Common Mistakes

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon4 Comments

Helping competitive athletes make weight in an effective and scientific manner is my principle area of practice with my own coaching clients. Currently, my personal roster of clients is about 90% made up of such athletes, so pro MMA fighters, boxers and then also powerlifters and weightlifters. And for today’s episode I wanted to get into some of considerations for performance nutrition and weight cutting with fighters specifically. Both in terms of nutrition to support training and to allow them to make weight and refuel appropriately. So what I’m going to get into is really in relation to competitive fighters, …

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#140: Layne Norton, PhD – Psychology of Overcoming Adversity and Body Composition Considerations for Powerlifting

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Episode 140: Layne Norton, PhD is on the show to discuss his current journey back from injury, the psychology of elite athletes and the debate how much of a role body composition plays directly on strength and powerlifting performance. Guest Bio Layne Norton, PhD Academically he completed his PhD in nutritional sciences under Professor Donald Layman at the University of Illnois, who you regular listeners will remember being on the podcast back in episode 123. As a competitor Layne was a pro bodybuilder who has more recently achieved large success in powerlifting, winning USAPL nationals in 2015 before going onto win …

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SNR #138: Dana Lis, RD – Exercise-induced GI Distress and the Impact of Gluten & FODMAPs on Athletic Performance

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

Episode 138: Sports dietitian and PhD candidate Dana Lis discusses some new research examining the potential for acute low-FODMAP diets to help alleviate GI symptoms in athletes Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Find out more about the SBS Academy from Shredded By Science  Luis Villasenor Randomized control trial conducted by Dana and her colleagues looking at gluten-free diets being utilized by endurance athletes Report that found 41% of athletes report adhering to a gluten-free diet (GFD), which is four-fold higher than the population-based clinical requirements Why are so many athletes experimenting with GF diets Exercise-induced GI distress: prevalence, causes & typical strategies …

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SNR #137: Luis Villasenor – How to (Successfully) Implement a Ketogenic Diet for Body Composition & Strength

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon6 Comments

Share this episode on Facebook Episode 137: Ketogains founder Luis Villasenor explains how to set-up a ketogenic diet correctly, discusses common mistakes and smashes misconceptions about all sorts of concepts related to ketogenic diets. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Luis Villasenor Luis is the found of Ketogains, an online community that works to help people achieve their body composition and performance goals through a well-formulated ketogenic diet. They have a respected reputation due to their evidence-based thinking and non-dogmatic approach to nutrition. Luis has been personally using a ketogenic diet for ~ 15 years, whilst building substantial muscle mass, getting …

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SNR #136: Do You Need To Rotate Your Protein Sources?

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Episode 136: Answering a listener question: “If someone was to only use set sources of protein i.e. chicken and whey. Would they still see the same benefits as to someone who has a more varied approach? In terms of hypertrophy and when on a fat loss phase. With their protein intake calculated as it should be for both. Also would they see negative effects in terms of food intolerance?” Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts   Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support the podcast on Patreon

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SNR #135: Nicola Rinaldi, PhD – Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

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Episode 135: Nicola Rinaldi, PhD discusses the causes, treatment interventions and science of hypothalamic amenorrhea. Hypothalamic amenorrhea is a condition in which menstruation stops for several months (or more) due to a problem involving the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is in the center of the brain and controls reproduction. Guest Bio Nicola Rinaldi, PhD Nicola has a PhD in computational biology Image courtesy of Michelle Baileyfrom MIT. After graduating she worked for a biotechnology company while pursuing her dreams of a family, which were thwarted by a diagnosis of hypothalamic amenorrhea (no period). Eighteen months of trying to conceive followed. She …

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SNR #134: Are BCAA’s Worthless?

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon2 Comments

Episode 134: Answering the question of whether branched-chain amino acid supplementation is a worthy consideration for gym trainees and athletes. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts   SNR #123: Donald Layman, PhD – Leucine Kinetics, mTOR Activation & the Anabolic Response to Protein SNR #118 – Caoileann Murphy, PhD – Protein Distribution, Per Meal Dosing & Muscle Protein Balance SNR #87: Dr. Brendan Egan – Anabolic Resistance, Sarcopenia & The Importance of Muscle Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support the podcast on Patreon

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SNR #133: Emma McCrudden – Vegan & Vegetarian Athlete Nutritional Programming

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Episode 133: Performance dietitian Emma McCrudden of the University of British Columbia discusses important considerations for implementing evidence-based nutrition programs with vegan or vegetarian athletes. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Emma McCrudden Her work focuses on the specialist application of the science of nutrition to performance enhancement in sport aiming to maximise training adaptation and performance, optimize body composition while minimizing risk of injury, over-training, illness and burnout. She is currently based at the University of British Columbia, where she splits her time between lecturing and being a practitioner with the elite athletes on campus. Different classifications of approaches that …

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SNR #132: Tony Gentilcore – How to Be an Effective, Successful Coach

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Episode 132: Tony Gentilcore discusses his philosophy on coaching, what skills are vital to effective coaching, strategies to develop as a coach, mistakes that coaches can often make and how to help clients get the best results possible.  Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Tony Gentilcore Tony’s coaching philosophy The skills that are vital to effective coaching Tweaks, progressions and regressions to tailor programs to client needs and circumstances Strategies that coaches can use to develop into the best coach they can be Mistakes that coaches can often make and how to learn from them Reasons why intermediate lifters fail to progress Helping clients …

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SNR #131: Dan Pardi, PhD – The Human Operating System & Developing a Philosophy for Health

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Episode 131: Dan Pardi, PhD discusses all sorts of concepts related to the philosophy of health, including; using tech and tools to improve behaviours, mindset over tools, research on PERMA and applying the “explore, exploit” concept to health. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Dan Pardi, PhD Dan is an entrepreneur and researcher whose life’s work is centered on how to facilitate health behaviors in others. He is the developer of Loop Model to Sustain Health Behaviors to help people live a healthy lifestyle in a modern world. He does research with the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department at Stanford University, …

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#130: Menno Henselmans – Menno’s Contest Prep, Ab-Libitum Dieting & Making Fat Loss Manageable

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Episode 130: Menno Henselmans discusses his recent experience with a contest prep, ab-libitum dieting, a car crash, illness and much more! Guest Bio Menno Henselmans Menno is the man behind Bayesian Bodybuilding. Once a former business consultant specialized in advanced statistical data analysis, Menno has MSc with distinction from the University of Warwick (UK) in that area. Menno’s background in science and statistics helped him to develop Bayesian Bodybuilding. The Bayesian method goes beyond the scientific system. It is not just a method of collecting knowledge. Bayesian methods tell us how to form rational beliefs based on the available information. Menno’s work is thus data driven and …

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SNR #129: Chris Masterjohn, PhD – Glycation, Oxidative Stress & The Protective Effects of Glucose and Insulin

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Episode 129: Chris Masterjohn, PhD discusses the role of carbohydrates and insulin in endogenous antioxidant systems, oxidative stress and misconceptions on glycation. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Chris Masterjohn, PhD   Chris is currently Assistant Professor of Health and Nutrition Sciences at Brooklyn College, part of the City University of New York. He has a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Connecticut. His dissertation was about the role of glutathione, an antioxidant and detoxifying molecule that we make within our own bodies from dietary …

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The Pros and Cons of Aggressive Dieting [Calories Deficits #3]

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This is part 3 of a series of articles on caloric deficits. Make sure to read parts 1 & 2: Calorie Deficits #1: Understanding the Nuances of Energy Balance Is Slow & Steady Actually the Best Way to Diet? (Calorie Deficits #2) In part two of this series we discussed how fast rates of weight loss through large caloric diets CAN be used without loss much (if any) muscle mass. Especially in those with a decent amount of fat to lose. So should YOU use an aggressive diet? Let’s evaluate the pros and cons… The Pros of Aggressive Dieting Researchers at …

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Is Slow & Steady Actually the Best Way to Diet? (Calorie Deficits #2)

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“Many people advise to lose weight at a steady and moderate rate, and recommend not cutting calories too low, in order to preserve muscle mass”. That’s a line taken from an email I was sent a few weeks back. And it perfectly exemplifies a piece of supposed common sense. And at first glance this makes some degree of logical sense, right? With a slower the rate of weight loss, theoretically, you might expect to have more of that weight loss coming from loss of body fat as opposed to lean tissue. And the more aggressive you diet the greater the degree of muscle …

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SNR #128: Martin MacDonald – Carbohydrate Tolerance, Rapid Fat Loss & Protein Timing

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Episode 128: Martin MacDonald evaluates the latest protein research discussions, the concept of carbohydrate tolerance, and conservation of muscle mass with large calorie deficits. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts   Martin MacDonald Martin is the founder of Mac-Nutrition, a thriving nutrition consultancy boasting sought after long-term internship and weekend mentorship programs. He has also developed Mac-Nutrition Uni, the UK’s first ever evidence-based, nutrition course that can be completed online. Martin is a clinical performance nutritionist to British Weight Lifting, the governing body for both the GB …

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Calorie Deficits #1: Understanding the Nuances of Energy Balance

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Recently I received the following question from podcast listener Noah: “what is the best way to lose massive amounts of fat as fast as possible, without compromising gainz?” It should be inherently obvious to anyone familiar with the relationship between energy balance and body weight that to lose the absolute most amount of fat mass over a given time frame would mean creating the absolute largest energy deficit possible. But equally as obvious, is that creating the largest energy deficit possible (i.e. starvation + high activity) is neither practical nor is it desirable if we plan on holding onto muscle …

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SNR #127: Sarah Doyle – Behaviour Change, Body Image Psychology & Investing in the Process

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Episode 127: Sarah Doyle of The Better Life Project discusses the how to develop habits, create change, set goals, and cultivate a healthy relationship with food in ourselves and others.  Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Sarah Doyle Making changes Using compelling visions to drive action, even when motivation is low Happiness myths Research-backed strategies for increasing happiness The Better Life Project Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support the podcast on Patreon Leave a review for the show on iTunes Leave a review on Stitcher (android users) Related Episodes: SNR #14: Dean Dwyer …

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SNR #126: Melissa Davis, PhD – Principles of Nutrition & Training Periodization for Women & Weight-Class Athletes

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Episode 126: Melissa Davis PhD of Renaissance Periodization discusses the most important dietary and training principles to consider when planning nutrition and training periods. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Melissa Davis, PhD  Nutrition phases for body composition goals: duration, structure and transitioning Periodization of nutrition with training within a long-term plan Nutrition and training principles to address in order to preserve lean body mass during dieting phases Psychology of dieting Target rates of change in body composition Changes in training performance and scale weight across the menstrual cycle Nutrition and training principles for women competing in weight-class based sports Beneficial …

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SNR #125: Cassandra Forsythe PhD, RD – Amenorrhea, Cellulite & Low FODMAP Diets for IBS

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Episode 125: Cassandra Forsythe PhD, RD discusses the factors that cause loss of the menstrual cycle, what can be done about cellulite and the potential for low FODMAP diets in treatment of IBS. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Cassandra Forsythe, PhD, RD  The primary factors that cause this loss of the menstrual cycle ‘Stress Susceptibility’ and amenorrhea Irritable bowel syndrome Potential for low FODMAP diets Cellulite formation and can it be reduced? Cassandra’s Website The Monash University Low FODMAP Girls Gone Strong Cassandra on Twitter Support the podcast on Patreon Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Enjoy this episode? Support …

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#124: Brent Ruby, PhD – The Human Ceiling of Energy Expenditure

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Brent Ruby PhD, discusses his lab’s fascinating work on the upper limits of energy expenditure, markers of over-training vs. real-world performance, and the role of environment & temperature on performance and recovery. Guest Bio Brent Ruby, PhD Brent is the director of the University of Montana Center for Work Physiology and Exercise Metabolism (WPEM). The center aims to mesh the research world with the operational field environment by combining study models that integrate the control of the laboratory with the hostilities of the field. WPEM’s high tech $1.5 million facility opened it’s doors in 2008 and is a 3,550 sqft. facility which includes …

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#123: Donald Layman, PhD – Leucine Kinetics, mTOR Activation & the Anabolic Response to Protein

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Episode 123: Donald Layman PhD, professor emeritus at the University of Illinois, discusses  the “leucine threshold” and activation of the mTOR pathway, amino acid oxidation and why MPS drops 2-3 hours after that peaking even when protein remains being fed. Guest Bio Donald Layman, PhD. Dr. Layman is professor emeritus at the University of Illinois. Dr. Layman’s laboratory is working to define protein and amino acid requirements and the interrelationship between dietary protein and carbohydrates in adult health. His research is focused on the impact of diet and exercise on adult health problems of obesity, type 2 diabetes and the Metabolic …

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SNR #122: Brett Gibbs – Powerlifting Meet Preparation, Making Weight & Insights into a World Champion Mindset

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Episode 122: International Powerlifting Federation world champion and world record holder Brett Gibbs is on the show to discuss mindset, programming philosophy, success and failure, and preparation for the upcoming world championships.  Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Brett Gibbs Brett was born and raised in New Zealand but has recently moved to Canada, where he runs his coaching business Gold Signature Coaching. Some of Brett’s achievements include: 2x IPF Raw World Champion 83kg IPF Open World Champion (2015) 83kg IPF Jr World …

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SNR #121: Graeme Close, PhD – Nutritional Strategies for Jockeys to Make Weight, Perform Better & Improve Health

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Graeme Close PhD discusses nutrition strategies that he has researched and employed with professional jockeys in order to allow them to make weight more safely, perform better and improve their overall health. Guest Bio Prof. Graeme Close Originally a Professional rugby league player, Graeme is now a Reader in Applied Physiology & Sport Nutrition at Liverpool John Moores University where he combines his academic research with nutrition and physiology consultancy to some of the worlds leading sporting organisations. Graeme is currently the head performance nutritionist to England Rugby. He is the lead nutritionist to Team GB Ski and Snowboard and works with …

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SNR #120: Kevin Folta, PhD – An Evidence-Based View of Genetically Modified Foods

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Episode 120: Kevin Folta PhD, is a horticulture professor at the University of Florida. Dr. Folta is passionate about spreading the word of good science, especially on misunderstood topics like genetic modification. Kevin Folta, PhD. Kevin Folta is a professor and chairman of the horticultural sciences department at the University of Florida. Dr. Folta received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago in molecular biology in 1998. Within his lab he researches photomorphogenesis in plants and compounds responsible for flavor in strawberries. Folta’s laboratory has two primary research areas: controlling plant traits using light, and using genomics to identify molecular markers for key …

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SNR #119 – Krista Casazza, PhD – Obesity Myths, Epigenetics of Obesity & Role of Muscle in Weight Loss

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Episode 119: Krista Casazza PhD, discusses myths surrounding obesity, the role of epigenetics and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in weight loss maintenance and metabolic health. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Krista Casazza, PhD.  Krista Casazza obtained her PhD from Florida International University in 2006, where her research focused on dietary and physical activity education interventions in adolescents. During her training Dr. Casazza investigated the effects of macronutrient modification (carbohydrate in particular) on reproductive hormones, insulin dynamics and body composition during a weight loss intervention in peri-pubertal African American girls. Musculoskeletal considerations in weight loss Importance of muscle for …

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#118 – Caoileann Murphy, PhD – Protein Distribution, Per Meal Dosing & Muscle Protein Balance

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Caoileann Murphy PhD is on the show to discuss protein metabolism, distribution and recommendations on per meal vs. daily basis. Guest Bio Caoileann Murphy, PhD Caoileann has a PhD in exercise physiology, focusing on protein metabolism under the supervision of Stu Phillips at McMaster University. She has recently moved back to Dublin to work with Dr. Brendan Egan’s research group. In this episode we discuss: Muscle protein balance Daily intake recommendations vs. per meal recommendations Effect of protein quality High protein diets and increasing lean mass in a calorie deficit Research questions to still be answered Links & Resources: Caoileann’s …

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SNR #117: Prof. Julia Rucklidge – Role of Micronutrients in Mental Health & Psychiatric Disorders

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Episode 117: Professor Julia Rucklidge from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand discusses some of her research looking at using micronutrient provision in the treatment of mental health disorders, ADHD, depression and PTSD. Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Professor Julia Rucklidge  Her interests in nutrition and mental illness grew out of her own research showing poor outcomes for children with significant psychiatric illness despite receiving conventional treatments for their conditions. For the last 8 years, she has been investigating the role of micronutrients in the expression of mental illness, specifically ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety and more recently, stress and PTSD associated …

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SNR #116: Prof. Kevin Tipton – Nutritional Support for Injuries, Protein Metabolism & Optimal Protein Distribution

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Episode 116: Professor Kevin Tipton from the University of Stirling discusses nutritional interventions for injured athletes, protein intakes, and the importance of protein timing and distribution for maximal anabolic response. Professor Kevin Tipton Kevin Tipton is a Professor of Sport, Health and Exercise Science at the University of Stirling. His postdoctoral work was under the supervision of Professor Robert Wolfe at UTMB. Kevin’s research focuses on exercise, nutrition and muscle metabolism in humans with emphasis on protein nutrition and metabolism in athletes, vulnerable populations, e.g. obese, elderly, and healthy volunteers. He has published over 50 papers in peer-reviewed journals and book …

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SNR #115: Dr. Quinn Henoch – Physical Therapy for Athletes, Movement Screening & Addressing “Butt Wink”

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Episode 115: Physical therapist Dr. Quinn Henoch discusses the crossover between strength training & physical therapy, movement screening, muscle tightness vs. muscle shortness, butt wink, squat depth and Quinn’s evolving philosophy on the role of the physical therapist. Dr. Quinn Henoch Dr. Quinn Henoch has a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis and is head of rehabilitation for JuggernautHQ and Darkside Strength. His clinic, Paradigm Performance Therapy, is adjacent to the new Juggernaut gym located in Laguna Niguel, CA. Quinn played football at the Div 1-AA level at Valparaiso University as a defensive back. He has also competed …

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SNR #114: Ryan Doris – Adapting to Succeed, Self-Responsibility for Failure & What Being Elite Means

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Episode 114: Ryan Doris of De Novo Nutrition discusses adapting to situations to be successful, learning and operating out of necessity, self-responsibility, discipline & confront the brutal facts. Quotes of the episode: “I have an absurd amount of self-responsibility. Even if there’s a 1% chance it was my fault, I ask where can I get better.” “You have to look a little dumb, to get a little smart.” Ryan Doris Ryan is the Chief Executive Officer of De Novo Nutrition, running things on both the companies supplement and apparel lines. He also is one of the coaches part of De Novo Consulting, …

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SNR #113: One Thing To Improve Your Life

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon1 Comment

Episode 113: A collection of the best guest answers to the question “if you could advise people to do one thing each day that would improve their life in some aspect, what would that one thing be?”. Running Order of Guests Included John Berardi – Episode 93 Eric Helms – Episode 28 Michael Ruscio – Episode 97 Bryan Chung – Episode 42 Ben Esgro – Episode 109 Nia Shanks – Episode 55 Lyle McDonald – Episode 65 Phil Learney – Episode 94 Susan Kleiner – Episode 80 Kirk Parsley – Episode 61 Martin MacDonald – Episode 57 Bryan Walsh – …

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Finding Wisdom Under a Bar: Powerlifting as a Teacher & Tool for Development

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It’s just 3 lifts. Just three uncomplicated, simple movements. Nothing changes. You aim to squat, bench and deadlift in the same manner you’ve done thousands of times before. But somehow powerlifting seems to have this intangible beauty to it that is hard to describe unless you “get it”. I’ve came to a point in my life where I’ve found powerlifting to be something that meshes perfectly with my personality. I’m now obsessed with the sport. That obsessive nature with stuff I get into is a common theme in my life. Thinking about it, I’m actually surprised it’s taken this long …

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SNR #112: The Best Way To Be Wrong

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We often see being wrong as something inherently bad. Something to avoid. Something that signifies that we should be embarrassed. We don’t want to be wrong. We want to be right. We would like to think that everything we say and every action we carry out are correct. We don’t want to give others the possibility of criticizing us. And sure, trying to be correct is great. But what if striving to never be wrong actually backfires? What if striving to never be wrong gets us stuck in place? Motionless. Actionless. That is a real possibility. Because here’s the thing; anything …

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SNR #111: Grace Liu, PhD – Probiotics, Fiber & Creating a Healthy Gut

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Episode 111: Grace Liu, PhD discusses some of her work in creating a better microbiome composition in clients through diet, supplementation and testing. Grace Liu, PhD  Dysbiosis The types of bacteria that have been shown to be protective & how to get them What signifies that a gut microbiome composition is “healthy” Probiotic supplementation: what to look for and what to avoid Sources and importance of prebiotic fiber Testing – why gut sequencing may be useful but doesn’t tell the whole picture The small intestine – the forgotten piece of the puzzle The protective effect of REG-III Glossary Dysbiosis:  a microbial imbalance …

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SNR #110: Nanci Guest, RD – Nutrigenomics in Health & Athletic Performance

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Episode 110: Nanci Guest, RD discusses some of her doctoral research into nutrigenomics and athletic performance. We also get into the role of nutrigenomics in creating personalized nutrition recommendations. Nanci Guest, RD    She attended the University of British Columbia and completed her Bachelor of Science degrees in agriculture and dietetics which also included several courses in kinesiology, and her Master of Science degree in nutritional sciences where she conducted research on eating behaviours and female athletes. She has published her research in top journals, presented many abstracts at international meetings and given dozens of invited talks in Canada, the …

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SNR #109: Ben Esgro, RD – Physiology, Abuse of Science & Silver Bullet Theory

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Episode 109: Ben Esgro of De Novo Nutrition discusses the complexity of physiology, how using science can be abused and the pitfalls of silver bullet theory. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Ben Esgro, RD Ben is the founder and COO of De Novo Nutrition. The company has both consulting and supplement branches, based on objective science and ethical practice. Ben is a registered dietitian (RD), as well as having a Masters in Nutrition and Exercise Science (MS) from Marywood University. He has …

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SNR #108: Your Mentality Towards Nutrition – Lessons From Eric Helms

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Episode 108: In this episode we have an excerpt from Eric Helms’ book; The Muscle & Strength Pyramid, in audio format. This section talks about your mentality towards nutrition. The Muscle & Strength Pyramids Books Related Episodes: SNR #79: Eric Helms – Nutrition For Powerlifters SNR #28: Eric Helms – Dieting, Macros & Critical Thinking for Physique and Strength Athletes SNR #101: Andy Morgan – Being a Better Coach and Prioritization via the Muscle & Strength Pyramids

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SNR #107: Brad Dieter, PhD – Science Driven Nutrition & Putting Research in Context

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Episode 107: Brad Dieter, PhD from Science Driven Nutrition is on to discuss the pitfalls in interpreting nutritional science, the importance of statistics, research on supplements and what a good nutrition philosophy should be based on. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Brad Dieter, PhD Brad runs Science Driven Nutrition, an online platform that aims to spread evidence-based nutrition information. Brad graduated from Washington State University in 2009 and spent a year as a Strength and Conditioning intern at Gonzaga University. He …

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SNR #106: Rick Miller, RD – The Role of Beta-Casein Proteins in Digestion & Health

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Episode 106: Registered dietitian Rick Miller discusses the research on the potential effects of two variants of the beta-casein proteins found in milk on digestion & gastointestinal symptoms. Rick Miller, RD  He is a senior lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics and Sports Nutrition. And previously provided lecturing to various higher education institutions, including Hull York Medical School, Loughborough University and London Metropolitan University. Rick is currently working towards post-doctorate in sports nutrition with a clinical emphasis. Since 2012 he has been spokesperson to the media on behalf of the British Dietetic Association on all aspects of nutrition, dietetics and public health …

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SNR #105: Prof. John Cryan – How Gut Bacteria Affect the Brain & Behaviour

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 105: Professor John Cryan discusses some of his lab’s breakthrough work on the microbiome and how it affects all aspects of the brain, including mood, behaviour, and potentially clinical issues such as autism and anxiety. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Guest Bio Professor John Cryan, PhD John F. Cryan is Professor & Chair, Dept. of Anatomy & Neuroscience, University College Cork. He is a Principal Investigator in the APC Microbiome Institute. He was a visiting fellow at …

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#104: The Evidence-based Approach to Muscle Growth – Brad Schoenfeld, PhD

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Brad Schoenfeld, PhD Brad is an assistant professor in the exercise science department at Lehman College in the Bronx, NY, and acts as director of their human performance laboratory. Brad earned his masters degree in kinesiology/exercise science from the University of Texas and his PhD at Rocky Mountain University where his dissertation focused on elucidating the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to resistance training. He has published over 70 peer-reviewed research articles on exercise and sports nutrition, many in high impact factor journals, as well as several textbook chapters. He acts as the Assistant Editor-in-Chief for the NSCA’s Strength and …

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#103: Alberto Nunez – Dieting Considerations For Bodybuilding

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Episode 103: 3DMJ coach Alberto Nunez in on the show to discuss what considerations that natural bodybuilding competitors should take regarding nutrition.  Guest Bio Alberto Nunez He first stepped on a competitive stage in 2007, and then the very next year he earned his pro status in virtually every major natural organization. While Alberto Nunez is relatively new to the sport of competitive bodybuilding he has played a vital role in promoting the natural movement. His contributions as a coach, athlete, and an author have helped propel some of the growth the sport has seen over the last decade. Despite all this …

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#102: 10 Impactful Lessons From This Past Year

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To kick off the new year, I reflect on some of the most important resources and lessons I have learned over the past year, including snippets of wisdom from books I’ve read, podcasts I’ve listened to, interviews I’ve watched and concepts I’ve reflected on. Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values The Art of Asking – Amanda Palmer Total Recall by Arnold Schwarzenegger (2012) The Obstacle is the Way: Ryan Holiday Intuition Pumps and Other Tools for Thinking – Daniel Dennett Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success Better Than Before – Gretchen Rubin

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SNR #101: Andy Morgan – Being a Better Coach and Prioritization via the Muscle & Strength Pyramids

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Share this episode on Facebook Episode 101: Andy Morgan is on the show to talk about how to become a better coach and some of the principles behind the Muscle & Strength pyramids created by Eric Helms. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts  Guest Bio   Andy Morgan Andy Morgan is the man behind the hugely successful RippedBody.jp website. Andy is a coach who has been based in Osaka, Japan for the past ten years.  And works to bring some of the best nutrition …

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SNR #100: Ciaran O’ Regan – Working With Athletes, Operating by Principles & The Learning Process

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Episode 100: To mark the 100 episode milestone, I chat with my good friend Ciaran O’ Regan. Ciaran is a sports scientist, strength & conditioning coach and a heavyweight amateur boxer.  Ciaran O’ Regan Principles vs. Methods The learning process: Focusing on the process vs. focusing on outcomes Confirmation bias and self-selection of viewpoints Focusing on the minutia of nutrition – missing the forest for the trees Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands (SAID) What makes a great coach? – Lessons from Greg Jackson, John Kavanagh & Mark Dellagrotte Musashi’s Book of 5 Rings as an operating system for life Using different training …

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SNR #99: Dr. Spencer Nadolsky – Medications & Weight Gain

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Episode 99: Dr. Spencer Nadolsky returns to the show to talk about what medications can cause weight gain and how to potentially find alternative options. Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Dr. Spencer Nadolsky Dr. Spencer Nadolsky is an osteopathic family physician who specializes in weight loss (bariatric medicine) and lipidology. His philosophy is to push lifestyle before drugs (when possible). Lifting, eating, laughter, and sleeping being his current first line medicines. After a successful athletic career at UNC-Chapel Hill, Spencer attended medical school at VCOM …

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SNR #98: Lee Hamilton, PhD – Effect of Omega 3 on Muscle Mass & Metabolic Function

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Episode 98: Lee Hamilton, PhD, of the University of Stirling is on the show to discuss the impact of omega 3 fatty acids on muscle function & metabolic health via inflammation & insulin sensitivity.  Lee Hamiton, PhD. Why the metabolic function of muscle is so important Data on omega 3 fatty acids and muscle function Possible mechanisms of action: inflammation, insulin sensitivity, etc. Ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 in the diet: Is there such thing as optimal? Implications for high-fat diets Marine sources vs. plant sources (EPA + DHA vs. ALA) Incorporation of fatty acids into cell membrane Practical …

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SNR #97: Dr. Michael Ruscio – Issues in Applying Microbiome Research Into Practice

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Episode 97: Dr. Michael Ruscio returns to the show to discuss gut mircobiota, applications for weight loss, insulin sensitivity, and the potential pitfalls in translating gut research into clinical practice.  “It’s bad science and bad practice to take an observation in field research and then say ‘now we should make this a treatment for people’”     Dr. Michael Ruscio What practical value does research on the microbiota of indigenous tribes have? Bacterial diversity in IBD, Crohn’s and Colitis Could a high-fibre diet be a BAD idea for some people? Importance of the small intestine Taking probiotics & antibiotics at the same time: …

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An Open Letter To Neil Francis & The Irish Independent: Science, Scaremongering & Creatine

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Share this article on Facebook I didn’t really want to do this. Crazy articles related to nutrition/supplementation that pop up in the media regularly get sent my way. Most often I can see the unscientific nonsense straight away, remind myself my time is best spent on other things and avoid engaging with it. But somehow I now find myself writing this public response to one such opinion piece. In this particular case, for reasons I’ll mention later, I feel the need to sufficiently address an article published on the 22nd of November in the Irish Independent. The piece in question, penned by  journalist …

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SNR #96: Andrew Chappell, PhD – Influence of Diet on the Gut Microbiota

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Episode 96:Andrew Chappell, PhD, is on the show to discuss the influence of diet and modern living on the gut microbiota and the role of our gut bacteria in many health-related issues. “These short-chain fatty acids help to keep the pH of your gut low. Pathogenic bacteria prefer a higher pH.”      Get the podcast on iTunes (iOS) Get the podcast on Stitcher (Android app) Get podcast RSS feed Click Here to Get Podcast Transcripts Guest Bio Andrew Chappell, PhD. Andrew is a Pro Natural Bodybuilder who has been training and competing for over 10 years. He competes with the …

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#95: Dr. James Levine – Physiological & Psychological Effects of Chronic Sitting & Low NEAT

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Episode 95:Dr. James Levine from the Mayo Clinic is on the show to discuss the effect of chronic sitting on the risk of blood sugar dysregulation, fat gain, obesity, neurological issues, productivity and general well-being. Guest Bio James A. Levine, M.D., Ph.D Having trained in clinical nutrition as a scholar at the University of Cambridge, James A. Levine, M.D., Ph.D., has dedicated his scientific career to promoting health in adults and children through education and innovation. Dr. Levine currently serves as a principal investigator for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Through three decades of research funded by the NIH, …

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SNR #94: Phil Learney – Nutrition Periodization, Rigid vs. Flexible Dieting & Why Modification Beats Change

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Episode 94: One of the UK’s most successful coaches Phil Learney is on the show to discuss nutritional periodization, rigid vs. flexible dieting, who needs advanced nutritional strategies, what science can and can’t tell us & why modification beats change. “Coaches are too obsessed with change… instead of modification”         Phil Learney The common misapplication of “advanced” nutritional strategies such as calorie and carbohydrate cycling. Using trial and error to inform practice Inter-individual variability in metabolism Nutritional periodization Rigid vs. flexible dieting The outcome of regulating intake is more important than the method used to achieve it Phil Learney’s website …

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SNR #93: John Berardi, PhD – Dieting Trade-offs, Applying Science to Practice & the Future of Nutrition

In Podcasts by Danny Lennon2 Comments

Episode 93: John Berardi, PhD. of Precision Nutrition is on the show to discuss the trade-offs that occur with any dietary approach, the limits of using science, future areas of nutrition research and coaching and the concept of the “best” diet. John Berardi, PhD. Shifting our mindset past the idea of a “best” diet What role does anecdotal evidence have in evidence-based practice The most exciting area of nutrition research we’re going to see over the next number of years The future of nutrition coaching and the fitness industry The importance of considering the trade-offs of any nutrition goal The …

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SNR #92: Eric Ravussin, PhD – Calorie Restriction, Longevity & Hormesis

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Episode 92: Dr. Eric Ravussin of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center is on the show to discuss their recent human trials on the effects of caloric restriction on longevity markers, fasting, hormesis and obesity. Guest Bio Dr. Eric Ravusssin, PhD.   Eric Ravussin is a professor in Human Physiology and the Director of the Nutritional Obesity Research Center at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is also the Douglas L. Gordon Chair in Diabetes and Metabolism at the Center. Since 2012 he has also been a Boyd Professor at Louisiana State University. Dr. Ravussin is a world …

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SNR #91: Effect of Sleep on Appetite Regulation, Food Choices & Glucose Metabolism

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Episode 91: In a solo episode, I discuss some research looking at how sleep restriction can affect appetite hormones, diet and glucose metabolism. Links & Resources SNR #38: Dan Pardi – Sleep, Circadian Rhythms & the Importance of Light & Dark SNR #61 – Dr. Kirk Parsley – Sleep, Performance, Navy SEALs & Testosterone Knutson et al., The Metabolic Consequences of Sleep Deprivation National Sleep Foundation Spiegel et al., 2004, Leptin levels are dependent on sleep duration Van Cauter et al., 2008, Metabolic consequences of sleep and sleep loss Spiegel et al., 1999, Impact of sleep debt on metabolic and endocrine function Melatonin L-tyrptophan …