

The Hidden Cost Of Underfueling For Runners
Send us Fan Mail We speak with registered dietitian Lauren Ganim about how underfueling can quietly derail both running performance and long-term health, from thyroid slowdown to disrupted hormones, sleep, and rising heart rate. We also look at the emotional and cultural forces that shape how runners eat, then land on simple, practical ways to fuel, hydrate, and recover well. • low energy availability and the hormone cascade that slows metabolism and switches off non-essential systems • higher heart rate, fatigue and brain fog as common underfueling signals • rebuilding health by gradually eating enough and letting the body regulate again • emotional eating patterns and the link between control, perfectionism and self-worth • runner body image pressure and why “you are the sport” can magnify it • East versus West approaches, seasonal eating and being more body-led • food education and access issues, including affordability and fresh food gaps • practical runner nutrition basics: add to the plate, fuel before, carbs plus protein after • hydration and electrolytes, and how dehydration can feel like underfueling • warning signs you’re not eating enough, including poor sleep, feeling cold and irregular periods • concerns about GLP-1 weight loss drugs, appetite suppression and eating-disorder risk But if you haven't listened to part one, then please do go back in our catalogue and give that a listen. Brian's Run Pod has become interactive with the audience. If you look at the top of the Episode description tap on "Send us a Text Message". You can tell me what you think of the episode or alternatively what you would like covered. If your lucky I might even read them out on the podcast. Instagram My Favourite Band Support the show Brian's Run Pod
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