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The Roadman Cycling Podcast

The Gut’s Role in Endurance Sports With Dr Jamie Pugh

Jan 27, 2025
Dr. Jamie Pugh, a postdoctoral researcher at Liverpool John Moores University, dives into the vital link between gut health and endurance sports. Discover why gastrointestinal issues plague athletes and how tailored carbohydrate strategies can enhance performance. He details the nutritional differences between elite and amateur cyclists, highlights the importance of monitoring gut health, and discusses the potential of AI in personalizing dietary recommendations. Insights on hydration and the risks of underfueling round out a fascinating discussion for any athlete.
28:45

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Endurance athletes must cautiously approach carbohydrate intake to avoid gastrointestinal distress, especially those without training for high consumption levels.
  • Understanding personal cycling goals is essential, as dietary choices can differ significantly between competitive and health-driven cyclists.

Deep dives

The Impact of Carbohydrate Consumption on Gut Health

High carbohydrate intake is a dominant trend among endurance athletes, but it comes with a potential risk of gastrointestinal (GI) distress. Research shows that while elite cyclists can consume significant amounts of carbohydrates—up to 120 grams per hour—this might not suit amateur athletes who have not built tolerance or practiced carbohydrate loading during their training. The type of carbohydrates consumed and their timing relative to workouts can also influence gut health outcomes. Therefore, it's essential for less experienced cyclists to approach carb consumption cautiously to avoid digestive issues, especially as they strive to match the dietary habits of professional cyclists.

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