Sigma Nutrition Radio

The podcast for lovers of nutrition science! Listen to detailed discussions with researchers and leading experts about the science of nutrition, dietetics and health.

#571: Is Zone 2 Training Actually Best for Health? – Prof. Brendon Gurd 07/29/2025

#571: Is Zone 2 Training Actually Best for Health? – Prof. Brendon Gurd In recent years “Zone 2 training” has gained immense popularity in fitness and health circles, often being proclaimed the “best” cardiovascular training for metabolic health. Zone 2 training is sustained, low-intensity exercise below the lactate threshold that is commonly employed by many elite level endurance athletes, with a variety of proposed performance benefits. This led to interest from health-conscious folks about its ability to improve markers like VO2 max and mitochondrial function, which are associated with better health outcomes and longevity. Prof. Brendon Gurd, an exercise physiologist at Queen’s University, is the co-author of a recent review published in Sports Medicine that examined some of the claims made around zone 2 training and health in the general population. This episode looks at whether the evidence truly supports Zone 2 as a uniquely effective training zone or if this hype has outpaced the research. These insights help professionals and individuals make evidence-based recommendations and avoid unintended negative consequences of following certain ideas. About The Guest Dr. Brendon Gurd is a Professor in the School of Kinesiology and Health Studies at Queen’s University, where his research focuses on exercise physiology and skeletal muscle adaptation. His work explores how different intensities and types of exercise influence mitochondrial content and function in muscle tissue, with the goal of understanding how to optimize health and performance through training. Timestamps [03:23] Discussion with Professor Brendan Gurd [05:56] Zone two training: Mechanisms and misconceptions [10:56] Practical applications and recommendations [22:16] Research gaps and future directions [35:47] Key ideas segment (Sigma Nutrition Premium) Links to Resources Subscribe to Join the for free Enroll in the next cohort of our course List of Sigma's Review paper: Lecture Slides: /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/37372880

#570: Fructose: Metabolism, Claims & Context for Risk – Scott Harding, PhD 07/22/2025

SNP42: Is Vitamin A Good or Bad for Bone Health? 07/15/2025

SNP42: Is Vitamin A Good or Bad for Bone Health? Vitamin A is often one of the less-discussed micronutrients in relation to bone health, taking a back seat to nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. Yet this fat-soluble vitamin plays a fundamental role in skeletal development, remodeling, and mineral homeostasis. It influences gene expression in both osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and contributes to the regulation of bone turnover throughout the lifespan. But what makes vitamin A particularly interesting, and controversial, is that its effects on bone appear to follow a double-edged pattern. While it’s essential for bone formation, several large epidemiological studies have suggested that chronically high intakes of preformed vitamin A may actually increase the risk of osteoporosis and fracture, especially when consumed as retinol from supplements or high-liver diets. And yet, the picture is not so clear-cut. This raises compelling questions: Is the concern over vitamin A and bone health justified, or is it a case of context-dependent risk? Can vitamin A, when combined with adequate levels of D and K, actually support bone strength? And are there thresholds above or below which risk increases? In this episode, we explore the human evidence on vitamin A and skeletal health, looking not only at fracture outcomes and bone mineral density data, but also at nutrient interactions, mechanistic plausibility, and the implications for supplement use in well-nourished populations. Note: This is a Premium-exclusive episode, so you will only hear a preview on this public feed. Timestamps [00:23] Vitamin A and bone health: an overview [02:50] Forms of vitamin A: retinol and carotenoids [04:16] Mechanisms of vitamin A in bone physiology [17:52] Nutrient interactions: vitamin A, D, and K [31:03] Practical takeaways and recommendations Related Resources Subscribe to Join the for free Go to Enroll in the next cohort of our course /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/36865500

#569: The History of Fat, Cholesterol & Heart Disease 07/08/2025

#569: The History of Fat, Cholesterol & Heart Disease The idea that saturated fat might be harmful to our health has sparked controversy for decades. In recent years, counter-narratives have surged: suggesting that concerns over saturated fat were overblown, that LDL cholesterol doesn’t matter, or that the original diet-heart hypothesis has been debunked. These claims have become especially popular in online wellness spaces and certain dietary communities, often wrapped in compelling but misleading rhetoric. So what does the best available evidence actually say? And how should we think about saturated fat, LDL cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk in the current day? In this wide-ranging interview, originally recorded for the Chasing Clarity podcast, Alan and Danny explore the scientific consensus around saturated fat’s impact on blood lipids, why LDL and apoB are central to atherosclerotic disease, and how dietary patterns can meaningfully reduce risk. Importantly, they also address some of the most persistent myths and half-truths that fuel confusion, from flawed interpretations of the Seven Countries Study to misrepresentations of newer meta-analyses. Timestamps [03:41] How do we know saturated fat impacts LDL-C? [05:28] Metabolic ward studies and key findings [11:13] The Keys equation and subsequent research [17:17] Epidemiology and long-term studies [31:48] The Seven Countries Study [44:25] Understanding the impact of saturated fat on blood lipids [47:23] Historical and research perspectives on saturated fat [50:43] Practical dietary strategies for improving blood lipids [53:48] The Portfolio Diet and other dietary interventions [58:07] The role of pharmacology in managing blood lipids [01:00:58] Addressing misconceptions and common claims [01:13:57] Key ideas segment (premium-only) Related Resources Subscribe to Join the for free Enroll in the next cohort of our course Alan Flanagan’s Related episodes to add to your podcast queue: 532, 525, 515, 493, 481, 439 /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/37271020

#568: Does the Maternal Diet Impact Risk of ADHD & Autism? – David Horner, PhD 07/01/2025

#568: Does the Maternal Diet Impact Risk of ADHD & Autism? – David Horner, PhD To what extent can maternal nutrition during pregnancy influence a child’s later cognitive or behavioural development? While genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to neurodevelopmental outcomes such as ADHD and autism, growing attention is being paid to the potential role of prenatal exposures, including dietary patterns. Yet, evidence in this area remains limited, and causality is difficult to establish. One recent study aimed to explore this question by analysing how maternal diet quality during pregnancy (specifically, adherence to a Western-style dietary pattern) related to neurodevelopmental outcomes in children assessed clinically at age 10. In this episode, Dr. David Horner discusses the findings from this prospective cohort study, the use of metabolic markers to complement dietary data, and the implications for future research into modifiable prenatal risk factors. About The Guest Dr. David Horner is a researcher in maternal nutrition and cardiometabolic health, based at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He is also a qualified medical doctor from Queen’s University of Belfast. His research is driven by a keen interest in modifiable determinants of health, aiming to better understand and improve health outcomes. Having worked as a medical doctor for 2 years in the UK, in 2017 Dr. Horner then moved to Copenhagen, where he completed a Master’s in Global Health and a PhD examining the impact of maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy on child health. Timestamps [02:47] Introduction to the study [07:08] Strengths and findings of the study [21:17] Genetic factors and gene-environment interactions [25:42] Metabolomics and potential mechanisms [30:12] Interpreting the study’s findings [38:03] Future research directions [42:50] Key ideas segment (Sigma Nutrition Premium) Related Resources Subscribe to Join the for free Enroll in the next cohort of our course See Sigma's Email: [email protected] Study: (with discussion in the comments) /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/36998205

#567: Did Big Sugar Hijack the Food Pyramid? Were Low-fat Diets a Scam that Damaged Our Health? 06/24/2025

#567: Did Big Sugar Hijack the Food Pyramid? Were Low-fat Diets a Scam that Damaged Our Health? For decades, dietary guidelines—and the Food Pyramid in particular—have been at the center of heated debates and considerable controversy. These guidelines have often been accused of being influenced by industry interests, oversimplifying nutritional nuance, or even directly contributing to rising obesity and metabolic disease rates. In this episode, we critically assess common claims surrounding the Food Pyramid, including whether it was truly shaped by vested industry interests, if it encouraged harmful dietary shifts toward excessive carbohydrate and sugar consumption, and whether the subsequent health outcomes seen at the population level can be fairly attributed to these guidelines. Additionally, we evaluate the role of the sugar industry in funding key studies and publications, examining the implications such conflicts of interest may have had on nutritional science. Drawing on historical context, rigorous examination of scientific evidence, and an evaluation of how nutritional recommendations have evolved, this discussion aims to clarify misunderstandings, highlight legitimate criticisms, and separate fact from persistent myths regarding dietary guidance and its implications for health. Timestamps [01:37] Common claims and narratives [03:15] Historical context of dietary guidelines [21:57] Sugar industry influence on dietary research [36:17] The mcgovern report [40:49] Misconceptions about dietary guidelines [44:28] Changes in food supply and consumption [58:15] Critiques and conflicts of interest [01:06:47] Key ideas segment (Premium-only) Links & Resources Go to (with linked resources) Subscribe to Join the for free Do you want to be skilled in reading nutrition studies? Enroll in the next cohort of our course Alan Flanagan’s - latest training and nutrition research relevant to strength trainees is the best online database for looking at the evidence of diets, foods and supplements on a range of health outcomes. /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/36818580

SNP41: Do Certain Foods Really Cause Inflammation – And Are Anti-Inflammatory Diets the Answer? 06/17/2025

#566: Can We Maintain Weight Loss? Pharmacology and Behavior – Tara Schmidt, RD 06/10/2025

#565: How Zinc Insufficiency Impacts Inflammation, Immunity & Aging – Prof. Emily Ho 06/03/2025

#565: How Zinc Insufficiency Impacts Inflammation, Immunity & Aging – Prof. Emily Ho Zinc is an essential micronutrient that often flies under the radar, despite being vital for hundreds of enzymes and transcription factors involved in immunity, antioxidant defense, and DNA repair. A surprisingly large segment of the population may not get enough – an estimated 10% of U.S. individuals consume less than half the recommended zinc intake, putting them at risk of deficiency. In this episode, Prof. Emily Ho discusses how even mild zinc insufficiency can impair immune function, promote chronic inflammation, and accelerate aspects of aging. She delves into the concept of “inflammaging” – the chronic, low-grade inflammation that develops with age – and explains how inadequate zinc status can aggravate this process. The conversation also highlights emerging research on zinc’s role in DNA integrity and how restoring zinc levels can reverse certain damage, underscoring zinc’s broader significance in healthy aging and disease prevention. Overall, this episode provides a deep scientific look at why maintaining adequate zinc status is crucial for immune resilience and mitigating age-related inflammatory and oxidative damage. About the Guest Emily Ho, PhD is the Director of the Linus Pauling Institute and professor in the College of Health at Oregon State University. Her research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which nutrient status and healthy foods affect the initiation and/or progression of chronic diseases such as cancer. Her work has helped drive dietary requirements and recommendations for micronutrients such as zinc for communities with susceptibility to poor nutrition. Timestamps [02:10] Interview begins [03:58] The roles of zinc [06:31] Zinc deficiency and insufficiency [14:26] Prevalence and risk factors of zinc deficiency [21:12] Zinc and age-related inflammation [29:39] Zinc’s impact on chronic diseases [31:20] Practical advice on zinc supplementation [41:14] Final thoughts Related Resources Go to (includes related research) Join the for free Subscribe to Enroll in the next cohort of our course /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/36734240

#564: Is Protein’s Appetite-Suppressing Power Overstated? 05/27/2025

#564: Is Protein’s Appetite-Suppressing Power Overstated? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the commonly held belief that protein is the most satiating macronutrient. It’s an idea that shows up frequently in both clinical guidance and popular nutrition discourse: if you want to feel fuller, eat more protein. But how robust is that claim when you drill into the details of the evidence? To explore this, Alan and Danny examine the complex interplay between protein intake, satiety, and energy intake. We look at both historical and recent literature, including work from Kevin Hall’s group, that raises important questions about how much of protein’s supposed appetite-suppressing effect is due to the protein itself versus other influential variables—such as eating rate, food texture, and energy density. This is an important topic, not just for academic curiosity, but for its practical implications. If our assumptions about protein and satiety are oversimplified or overstated, that has knock-on effects for how we design diets aimed at appetite regulation, weight management, or obesity prevention. So whether you’re a researcher, a clinician, or simply someone interested in understanding the mechanisms behind how we eat, this episode aims to provide clarity on where the science currently stands—and where it might be leading. Timestamps [03:18] The impact of protein on satiety [04:49] Historical context of protein and satiety [07:30] Mechanisms of protein-induced satiety [16:31] Research methods and measurements [21:39] Studies on protein and satiety [27:51] Analyzing specific studies [35:51] Understanding high protein meals and their effects [37:31] Acute vs. chronic effects of high protein intake [45:59] Other meal characteristics [53:21] Real-world implications of protein intake [01:01:19] Summarizing the impact of protein on satiety Related Resources Subscribe to Join the for free Enroll in the next cohort of our course Go to Related studies: /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/36467850

#563: The Financialization of the Food System – Prof. Martin Caraher 05/20/2025

SNP40: Do Seed Oils Cause Inflammation & Chronic Disease? 05/13/2025

#562: How to Detoxify Yourself – Quack Asylum Special 05/06/2025

#561: Emulsifiers in the Modern Diet: Health Risk or Harmless Additive? 04/29/2025

#560: Neurodiversity & Nutrition: Choline, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Beyond – Emma Derbyshire, PhD 04/22/2025

Do Lipids Increase During Weight Loss? (SNP39) 04/15/2025

#559: Skin Health & Nutrition – Thivi Maruthappu, PhD 04/08/2025

#559: Skin Health & Nutrition – Thivi Maruthappu, PhD The intersection of nutrition, dermatology, and skin health is an area of growing interest, yet one that remains riddled with misinformation and oversimplified claims. The influence of dietary patterns, specific nutrients, and lifestyle factors on conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin aging has been widely debated, with varying levels of evidence supporting different interventions. While some nutritional strategies may play a role in optimizing skin health, the challenge lies in distinguishing practical, evidence-based approaches from overstated or anecdotal claims. A significant issue in this space is the naturalistic fallacy—the belief that diet alone can replace medical treatments, or that conventional dermatological interventions should be avoided in favor of “natural” approaches. This has led to widespread vilification of certain foods, such as dairy, gluten, and sugar, despite a lack of strong supporting data. Similarly, supplements and probiotics are often promoted with broad claims, while their actual efficacy is highly context-dependent—varying based on individual nutrient status, disease severity, and baseline dietary intake. In this episode, Dr. Thivi Maruthappu, a consultant dermatologist and researcher in nutritional dermatology, joins Danny Lennon to explore the current state of evidence in this field. Guest Information Dr Thivi Maruthappu MA PhD FRCP ANutr is a consultant dermatologist, nutritionist and leading researcher. As the UK’s first and only dual-qualified dermatologist and nutritionist, her pioneering expertise bridges the gap between diet and skin health. Dr Thivi continues to work in the NHS and has her own practice based at London’s renowned Cleveland Clinic. Dr Thivi studied Medicine at Oxford University and completed Dermatology training in London. She undertook a PhD to understand the links between our skin and internal health and this research featured in top tier scientific journals. She is one of a handful of dermatologists to have completed training in severe eczema and psoriasis during a fellowship at St John’s Institute of Dermatology, London and achieved a Certificate in Nutrition Science from Stanford Medical School, USA. Timestamps [02:52] Start of interview [03:37] Dr. Maruthappu’s background and expertise [05:57] Sunscreen and skin health: myths and facts [12:15] Effective skincare ingredients [16:07] The role of nutrition in skin health [20:25] Dairy and skin conditions [24:10] Collagen supplements: do they work? [27:45] Probiotics for skin health [31:35] Research outcomes and challenges [35:20] Practical applications in clinical practice [43:05] Key ideas segment (premium-only) Related Resources Join the for free Subscribe to Enroll in the next cohort of our course /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/35253875

#558: Rethinking Ultra-Processed Foods in the Modern Food System – Duane Mellor, PhD 04/01/2025

#558: Rethinking Ultra-Processed Foods in the Modern Food System – Duane Mellor, PhD Discussions around ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and their role in public health have gained significant traction in recent years. While some advocate for categorizing and regulating these foods due to their potential negative health effects, others argue that such classifications can oversimplify the issue and detract from more actionable dietary changes. In this episode, Dr. Duane Mellor, a registered dietitian and researcher, joins us to explore the complexities of the UPF debate. Rather than dismissing the concept outright, Dr. Mellor emphasizes the importance of nuanced discussion, bridging the gap between research findings and practical, evidence-based dietary guidance. Throughout this conversation, we unpack the broader implications of ultra-processed foods in the food system, consider how added fat, salt, and sugar contribute to public health challenges, and explore realistic approaches for dietary improvements. Guest Information Dr. Duane Mellor, PhD is a registered dietitian, academic researcher and science communicator. Dr. Mellor is currently working in clinical dietetics, working to support people, families and carers living with diabetes. Previously Dr. Mellor worked in medical education at Aston University, holding the position of Associate Dean for Public Engagement in the College of Health and Life Sciences. After initially working in the areas of clinical trials, Dr. Mellor’s other research interests focused on improving nutrition and health by working with communities to celebrate their heritage through food and help tackle barriers resulting from societal inequalities. Timestamps [03:02] Interview start [06:39] Understanding the NOVA classification [09:53] Potential pitfalls and policy implications [14:52] Food science and technology perspectives [20:47] Challenges in food classification [26:13] Health equity and policy considerations [42:31] Communication and public perception [50:30] Final thoughts and advice [51:15] Key ideas segment (Premium-only) Related Resources Join the for free Subscribe to Enroll in the next cohort of our course Paper: Go to /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/35224080

#557: Health Psychology & Eating Behaviour – Prof. Jane Ogden 03/25/2025

#557: Health Psychology & Eating Behaviour – Prof. Jane Ogden In the realm of health psychology, our understanding of eating behaviors extends beyond mere physiological hunger cues. Research indicates that factors such as learned associations, cultural influences, and individual perceptions play pivotal roles in shaping our dietary choices. Recognizing this complexity is essential for developing effective dietary interventions that move beyond simplistic recommendations, acknowledging the intricate web of cognitive, emotional, and societal factors at play. A significant discussion within nutrition science centers on the regulation of eating patterns, particularly the balance between internal cues and external structures. While intuitive eating emphasizes responding to one’s internal hunger signals, studies suggest that these signals are often influenced by external factors such as distractions and learned behaviors. An alternative approach, known as “pinned eating,” proposes structuring meals around fixed times and contexts. In this episode Prof. Jane Ogden, Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Surrey, discusses these concepts and some of the research her group has carried out. Guest Information Professor Jane Ogden is a distinguished health psychologist at the University of Surrey, with over three decades of experience in researching eating behavior, weight management, and women’s health. She earned her PhD from the Institute of Psychiatry in London in 1990 and has since contributed extensively to the field through her research and publications. Throughout her career, Professor Ogden has authored several influential books, including “Health Psychology: A Textbook,” now in its seventh edition, and “Thinking Critically about Research.” Her work is widely recognized, leading to her receiving an honorary Doctor of Science from the University of Buckingham in 2022. Timestamps [02:01] Interview start [02:41] Understanding eating behaviors and influences [10:33] Integrating psychology into nutrition practice [13:58] Pinned Eating [16:46] Critique of Intuitive Eating [21:30] Eating behaviors and hunger as a perception [26:34] Taste preferences and acquisition in children [29:10] Cultural and contextual meanings of food [33:25] Disgust and food presentation [35:29] Health communication and obesity [44:28] Future research in health psychology [47:23] Key ideas segment (Premium-only) Links: Subscribe to Join the for free Go to Enroll in the next cohort of our course Study: /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/35163090

SNP38: What is Quality Sleep? 03/18/2025

#556: Can We Restore the Gut Microbiome Through Dietary Changes? – Anissa Armet, PhD 03/11/2025

#555: What Should the Dietary Guidelines Say? – Prof. Christopher Gardner 03/04/2025

#555: What Should the Dietary Guidelines Say? – Prof. Christopher Gardner Every five years, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines are updated based on the latest scientific evidence to help shape national nutrition recommendations. A panel of experts was assembled to review the existing research, evaluate new findings, and provide recommendations that will inform the next edition of the guidelines. One of the committee members involved in this process is Professor Christopher Gardner, a leading nutrition scientist at Stanford University, who joins us to share key insights from the committee’s work. In this discussion, Professor Gardner provides an inside look into how the committee evaluated dietary patterns, the role of plant-based proteins, and the ongoing debate surrounding ultra-processed foods. He explains the rigorous process of reviewing scientific literature, the challenges in translating research into policy, and the critical role of health equity in shaping the recommendations. By exploring these themes, this episode aims to provide clarity on the scientific foundation behind the upcoming dietary guidelines. Whether you’re a nutrition professional, researcher, or someone interested in how dietary recommendations are formed, this conversation sheds light on the key discussions shaping the future of nutrition policy. Timestamps [03:38] Interview begins [07:18] The rigorous process behind formulating dietary guidelines [12:10] Key questions addressed and major findings from the report [25:41] Identifying nutrients of concern and refining dietary patterns [33:39] The importance of health equity in dietary recommendations [36:04] Reassessing dairy’s role in different population groups [41:05] Shifting the focus towards plant-based protein sources [47:52] The debate on ultra-processed foods and public health implications [58:24] Key Ideas segment (Premium-only) Related Resources Enroll in the next cohort of our course Subscribe to Join the for free Previous episode with Prof. Gardner: /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/35081705

#554: Crucial Ideas for Understanding Nutrition Science 02/25/2025

#553: Healthy Habits for Fertility and Reproductive Health – Marjorie Nolan Cohn, RD 02/18/2025

#553: Healthy Habits for Fertility and Reproductive Health – Marjorie Nolan Cohn, RD This episode focuses on the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and women’s health, with a particular emphasis on managing complex conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Registered dietitian Marjorie Nolan Cohn shares insights from over two decades of clinical practice, highlighting the importance of addressing foundational health behaviors—such as adequate sleep, hydration, and nutrient-dense dietary patterns—before introducing targeted interventions like supplementation. Marjorie explores the nuanced relationship between body weight, metabolic health, and fertility, while addressing misconceptions around weight loss as a primary health goal. The episode examines the role of long-term, individualized care in improving symptoms and outcomes for women experiencing significant menstrual-related challenges. Practical considerations for practitioners, including strategies to build trust, identify key barriers, and provide holistic support, are outlined alongside the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to improve care quality. Marjorie Nolan Cohn is a registered dietitian with a Masters Degree in Food and Nutrition Science from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is the Clinical Director of Berry Street, a company providing virtual in-network nutritional counseling to people across the US. Timestamps [04:32] Beginning of the interview [08:39] The role of nutrition in fertility [13:40] Understanding PCOS and endometriosis [16:28] Barriers to accurate women’s health diagnoses [19:03] Exploring diet and lifestyle strategies [23:28] Addressing challenges in women’s health and nutrition [39:01] Closing remarks and final takeaways Related Resources Join the for free Subscribe to Enroll in the next cohort of our course Guest website: /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/34883170

#552: Diet & Sleep Interactions – Marie-Pierre St. Onge, PhD 02/11/2025

Multivitamin Nihilism: Is it Actually Worthless to Supplement? (SNP37) 02/04/2025

#551: How to Shift from Short-term Dieting to Sustainable Lifestyle Changes – Laurin Conlin 01/28/2025

#551: How to Shift from Short-term Dieting to Sustainable Lifestyle Changes – Laurin Conlin While the fitness industry often emphasizes short-term goals such as rapid weight loss or aesthetic improvements, a growing body of evidence highlights the importance of fostering long-term habits for health and wellbeing. Understanding how psychological frameworks intersect with physical health behaviors is key to empowering clients and overcoming the challenges posed by rigid dieting practices or the influence of social media culture. Bodybuilding and fitness culture serve as both a microcosm and an extreme example of the challenges faced in this space. As the boundaries between physique sports and general fitness blur, many enthusiasts adopt unsustainable habits without fully understanding their long-term implications. How can fitness professionals effectively guide clients toward intrinsic motivations and healthier relationships with food and exercise while balancing the reality of external pressures? In this episode, Laurin Conlin offers her insights based on her coaching experiences, as well as formal training in exercise sciences and mental health counselling. Dr. Eric Trexler co-hosts the episode with Danny Lennon. Timestamps [05:41] Challenges in dieting and coaching practices [09:58] Bridging physical and mental health through coaching practices [13:15] Recognizing and navigating disordered eating behaviors in fitness clients. [22:01] The physiological and psychological challenges in physique sports. [34:52] Fitness culture and social media influence [37:19] Misunderstanding intuitive eating [41:23] Using motivational interviewing and reflective listening to guide clients [52:13] Integrating mental health practices in fitness and nutrition coaching [62:13] Key Ideas segment (Premium-only) Related Resources Go to Join the for free Subscribe to Enroll in the next cohort of our course Get and collegues /episode/index/show/sigmanutrition/id/34412970

#550: Eating Disorder Risk in Sport, Wellness & Fitness – Jillian Lampert, PhD, RD 01/21/2025

#549: Are We Doomed? Trust, Misinformation, and the Future of Health & Fitness Science – Joe Klemczewski, PhD 01/15/2025

IGF-1 and Diet: Cause For Concern? (SNP36) 01/08/2025

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