Jill Lane | Understanding and Harnessing Energy Availability for High Performance

Energy availability is a foundational component of performance nutrition. Yet, many aspects of it are misunderstood and athletes are unaware of its importance. In this episode, Jill Lane takes a deep exploration into the significance of energy availability in sports, how it impacts performance, and its relationship with Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). She uncovers the tell-tale signs and symptoms of under-fueling in athletes. Jill breaks down the essential role of hydration and how athletes can make informed choices to optimize their performance.

Jill also sheds light on the unique nutritional challenges faced by high-level athletes - from the pressure to maintain their public image, to the pitfalls of taking nutrition advice from social media influencers or unqualified sources. We also discuss the various causes of fatigue, the distinction between overtraining and under-recovery, and the importance of recognizing the signs of under-fueling. By the end of this episode, you'll understand the crucial role of energy availability in athletic performance and how to integrate it into a team’s culture. Get ready for a masterclass with Jill Lane!

Time Stamps:

[4:58] The distinction between integrative and traditional approaches to nutrition

[9:25] Highlights from the 2023 Designs for Sport Summit

[13:57] Definitions and misconceptions about energy availability

[21:49] Signs and symptoms of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)

[30:28] The unique challenges of athletes in high-level sport

[39:04] High-impact strategies for providing nutrition education on a large scale

[46:30] How coaches can identify the signs of low energy availability in athletes

[51:25] Areas to focus on when counseling athletes

In addition to being a mom of 3, Jill Lane has spent over 15 years consulting, coaching and teaching functional nutrition and exercise physiology. Her passion for helping pro athletes, sports families and high achievers attain max strength, quick recovery, heightened energy, sharp focus and optimal body fat for peak performance has become the cornerstone of her business. Some of her current and past clients include coaches and players from the NFL, NBA and MLB as well as aspiring MMA and Olympic athletes. Her mission to support the next generation of student-athlete leaders, as well as those who lead them on a daily basis. She strives to share what she's learned so they can feel confident and clear when it comes to performance nutrition.

You can learn more about Jill by visiting her website and following her on Instagram.

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