Do you sweat a lot? That doesn't automatically make you a salty sweater or mean you're losing loads of sodium (the key electrolyte in your sweat). Dina and Bob dig into nearly a decade of their collective real-world sweat testing data, review gender differences, and discuss why general assumptions often miss the mark. Join our Gold Level Patreon tier to see our data breakdown and join the conversation at patreon.com/ISNpodcast. ------- Subscribe to our show to get the weekly episodes and also ch...
Jun 25, 2025•31 min
In this episode, Dina and Bob dig into sweat rate — what it is, how to measure it, and why it matters more than most athletes realize. Bob shares data from a recent sweat rate test during a long run (and felt the consequences). From there, the conversation branches into sex differences in sweat rate, hormone-related shifts across the menstrual cycle, and how testosterone and aging can change the hydration equation. Topics include: What is sweat rate? The wide range of how much athletes sweat How...
Jun 18, 2025•40 min
Struggling with GI distress during training or racing? You're definitely not alone and the good news is, it's fixable. In this episode, Bob and Dina break down the three main contributors to gastrointestinal issues and explore some of the nuances within each area. Whether you're dealing with bloating, cramping, or worse, this discussion will give you a clear starting point to identify what's triggering your symptoms and develop targeted strategies that actually work. Find Bob’s “Metabolic Effici...
Jun 11, 2025•41 min
In this conversation, Dr. Katie Hirsch discusses her journey from being an athlete to a researcher focused on nutrition and exercise science, particularly for female athletes. She emphasizes the importance of protein intake, especially during different life stages such as premenopause and menopause, and addresses the unique nutritional needs of athletic women. Our discussion includes: Protein intake targets for different situations and female athlete groups Adjusting protein for the menstrual cy...
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Muscle cramps are frustrating, unpredictable, and often misunderstood. In this episode, Dina and Bob unpack three key contributors to muscle cramping, going beyond the usual “hydration and electrolytes” explanation. They share real-life athlete examples, explore the role of neuromuscular fatigue, and explain how terrain-specific training (or lack of it) can set athletes up for mid-race cramping. Whether you're a salty sweater, an over-reliant supplementer, or just confused by conflicting advice,...
May 28, 2025•28 min
In this episode, we unpack the evolution of sports drinks and explore what needs to be in them (and what doesn’t). We also review 4 popular sports drinks to give you real life examples and help you make more informed decisions about what you’re drinking and what you’re spending your money on. Our discussion includes: The origin story of Gatorade How sports drinks have evolved (or devolved?) over time What to look for and what to question on the label Why more isn’t always better when it comes to...
May 21, 2025•35 min
In this episode, we break down when fat might actually make sense, where it could backfire, and what you need to consider before experimenting with it in your training. ------- Subscribe to our show to get the weekly episodes and also check out the YouTube channel. You can also support the podcast, help us to remain 100% ad-free, and get access to exclusive bonus content and behind-the-scenes conversations with Bob and Dina. Join our Patreon community or find us in the Patreon app by searching I...
May 14, 2025•22 min
Creatine monohydrate is no longer just for the gym bros and powerlifters. In this episode, Dina and Bob explore how this well-known supplement is gaining attention for benefits that go far beyond muscle strength. They discuss emerging evidence in creatine’s role in supporting cognitive function during sleep deprivation, its potential as an anti-catabolic and anti-inflammatory ally, and how it may be a smart tool for youth athletes. The science is still evolving, but the potential is worth paying...
May 07, 2025•23 min
In this episode, we take a look at the use of HMB (beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate) in masters athletes. While it’s not a magic bullet, HMB may offer benefits for maintaining strength and muscle mass as we age and during periods of lower activity, injury, or perhaps intense strength training phases. We cover: What HMB is, how it relates to leucine, and why it matters for muscle preservation When HMB might be helpful for aging athletes Dosing strategies, timing, and how to approach it with reali...
Apr 30, 2025•22 min
What makes pre-workout supplements unique? In this episode, we review three NSF Certified for Sport products from Klean Athlete, Gnarly Nutrition, and Bare Performance Nutrition to highlight nuances and key differences. Catch this episode to be better informed on ingredients and what you should know before you choose a pre-workout formula. We share a summary reference table of the 3 products we review over in our Patreon Community for our Gold level members. ------- Help keep our podcast free fr...
Apr 23, 2025•32 min
Whether you’re a daily coffee drinker, a green tea lover, or rely on a pre-workout boost, caffeine can be a powerful performance aid, but only when used wisely. In this episode, we dive into a touch of science and nuance behind caffeine dosing, how your genes influence metabolism and tolerance, and some of the sneaky sources you might be consuming without realizing it. We also unpack what to watch for in popular energy drinks and supplements, and why personalized guidance matters when it comes t...
Apr 16, 2025•32 min
What can you do for better sleep? In this episode, Dina and Bob explore the often-overlooked ways in which sleep can be impacted by our daily and nightly food choices and habits. We dig into: Simple habits for better sleep hygiene Timing of fluids, food, and alcohol How menopause and aging shift sleep needs Genetics and supplements: do they matter? Smart strategies for pre-sleep snacks Get ready to rethink and upgrade your nighttime routine. ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and t...
Apr 09, 2025•49 min
Are you supplementing with creatine monohydrate or curious about it? Does it cause weight gain? When should you take it? And what dose do you need? Tune into this episode to hear our answers to these 3 most common questions we receive! ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to our new Patreon to show your support and join our Community: https://www.patreon.com/isnpodcast Connect with us on ...
Apr 02, 2025•20 min
With the current egg shortage affecting prices and availability, many of you are looking for alternative protein sources to fuel your mornings. In this episode, we discuss budget-friendly tips and practical ways to get high-quality protein without relying as much on eggs. Plus, we'll be sharing our top three non-egg protein meal recipes exclusively with our Patreon members so join us there for more. Tune into this episode for simple strategies to keep your nutrition on track. ------- Help keep o...
Mar 26, 2025•27 min
In this episode, we’re revisiting a core concept in sports nutrition: Metabolic Efficiency Training (MET). Whether you’re new to the idea or need a refresher, this episode will help you understand how to optimize your body's ability to use fat and carbohydrate as fuel. We break down: What Metabolic Efficiency Training is and why it matters How to assess your body’s fuel utilization Who can benefit from MET (hint: it’s not just endurance athletes!) Key benefits, from energy stability to performan...
Mar 19, 2025•37 min
In this Part 2 episode, we’re diving into 14 more ‘Next Level Supplements’ for masters athletes - ones you’ve probably heard of (or maybe even use). We’ll break down what they are, what they do, and key considerations so you can make informed choices. Are they magic bullets? Nope. Could some be useful for you? Maybe! Let’s find out! ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to our new Patreon ...
Mar 12, 2025•49 min
In this episode, we break down 10 “Foundation Level Supplements” and rate them green, yellow, or red based on their potential benefits for masters athletes. Whether you're focused on health, athletic performance, or longevity, we help you cut through the noise and determine which supplements might be worth considering and which ones to skip (or at least consult with us on first!). ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus ...
Mar 05, 2025•33 min
In this episode, we dive into advanced glycation end products (AGEs), compounds formed in the body and through certain cooking methods that may contribute to aging and chronic disease. But what does this mean for your health, and how much should you really worry about AGEs? Tune in for practical insights on how to make informed choices without unnecessary fear. We cover: What AGEs are and how they form in the body Their potential impact on health and aging Which foods contribute to higher AGE le...
Feb 26, 2025•25 min
Did you know that 90% of the world is deficient in EPA & DHA, two critical omega-3 fats? In this episode, we sit down with Elana Natker, a Registered Dietitian and spokesperson with more than two decades of communications experience, to dive deep into the science of omega-3s and why they matter. Tune in for a practical, science-backed conversation that will change the way you think about fats in your diet. We cover: What makes omega-3s unique and how they differ from other fats The best sour...
Feb 19, 2025•56 min
In this Part 2 episode, we’re back with more clever ways to sneak extra nutrition into the foods you already love. This time, we’re tackling rice, pasta, ground meats, scrambled eggs, and even giving traditional toast a nutrient-packed makeover. Whether you’re looking to boost your own meals or subtly upgrade your family’s nutrition, these simple ingredient swaps and add-ins will help you level up without overhauling your routine. Give them a try—we dare you! ----- Help keep our podcast free fro...
Feb 12, 2025•41 min
Do you know how to sneak in extra ingredients into foods you already eat to enhance the nutrition profile? In this Part 1 episode, Bob and Dina provide several ideas for boosting smoothies, soups, sauces and dips. You’ll get some new ideas to try for you or your loved ones (and you don’t have to tell them!). ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to our new Patreon to show your support and ...
Feb 05, 2025•31 min
We continue our vitamin D mini-series with further discussion about how vitamin D status impacts muscle function and strength, injury risk and recovery, and immune system health. Make sure to join Patreon Community to get an inside peek on a Vitamin D case study that Bob shares about a men’s basketball team he worked with. Additionally, if you are interested in getting your genomics tested to learn about your vitamin D related genes, contact Bob or Dina to learn more about this unique service an...
Jan 29, 2025•32 min
We continue our vitamin D mini-series with further discussion about its importance in the body, common risk factors for deficiency, and a few cautions about the reference ranges shown in blood work. We also go into detail about supplement protocols over in our Patreon Community , so join our Gold Level Membership to get more specifics on how to supplement properly. Additionally, if you are interested in getting your genomics tested to learn about your vitamin D related genes, contact Bob or Dina...
Jan 22, 2025•39 min
Amanda Archibald, Registered Dietitian and Founder of the Genomic Kitchen, returns to our podcast to talk about bone health, vitamin D, and the role of genomics. You may be surprised to learn that it’s not just sun exposure, vitamin D-containing foods, or vitamin D supplementation that determine your vitamin D levels. Your genes and many other vitamins in foods have a role that is not to be under-appreciated! Links: Genomic Kitchen The ReCode Retreat The Vitamin D Pathway from 3x4Genetics graphi...
Jan 15, 2025•55 min
Join us for our 2nd round of "Agree, Disagree, or Pass" where we propose semi-controversial nutrition and health statements to each other. We break down some popular blanket nutrition statements and show why nutrition advice is rarely one-size-fits-all. Be sure to catch episode 161 for the first round of our “dietitian game” and you’ll have new appreciation for why context matters in so many nutrition recommendations. --- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special ben...
Jan 08, 2025•22 min
In this episode, we share thoughts on an important area of weight loss: the mindset. Not just how we view our bodies, but the language we use, expectations, embracing our changing bodies, and making a plan for action that aligns with how we want to feel that includes checks and balances. ------- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to our new Patreon to show your support and join our Community: h...
Jan 01, 2025•34 min
Join us for our first game of "Agree, Disagree, or Pass" where we propose semi-controversial nutrition and health statements to each other. We break down some popular claims and show why nutrition advice is rarely one-size-fits-all. You may catch a few surprises along the way and it will give you new appreciation for why context matters in many nutrition recommendations. --- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with B...
Dec 25, 2024•25 min
Ready to make the most out of your 2025? Check out our top 10 recommendations for the things you must do if you’re ready to level up your health and performance this coming year. --- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to our new Patreon to show your support and join our Community: https://www.patreon.com/isnpodcast Connect with us on Instagram @isnpodcast and on Facebook @insidesportsnutrition ...
Dec 18, 2024•36 min
In this Ask Us Anything #18, we address a listener’s questions about protein: Do you need as much protein if you’re not training as much? Is there a limit to how much protein you can use in a day? Got a question you want us to address? Join our Patreon to get extra insights from Bob & Dina along with other fun perks (while also supporting the show!). -- Help keep our podcast free from sponsors and take advantage of special benefits and opportunities for bonus content with Bob and Dina. Go to...
Dec 11, 2024•27 min
In this episode, we discuss the health benefits of green tea and discuss a systematic review and meta-analysis research paper that investigated whether consumption of green tea, combined with an exercise plan, enhances weight loss for individuals who are overweight or have obesity. Listen in to see whether green tea is a beverage you may want to drink more often, for health benefits or weight management purposes. Links: Research paper : Does green tea catechin enhance weight-loss effect of exerc...
Dec 04, 2024•28 min
