AMA: Coconut Oil, Raw Oats, Collagen, & More! (SNP 25)
Jan 23, 2024
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An AMA episode of Sigma Nutrition Radio where the host answers various questions. Topics include implementing a calorie surplus for bulking, establishing the 80/20 of a healthy lifestyle with a busy schedule, the controversies surrounding coconut oil, the representation of risk in ApoB and LDL particle numbers, the need for supplementing to reach micronutrient RDA, the benefits of raw oats in smoothies, the impact of diet on oral thrush, and the potential benefits of supplemental collagen.
When implementing a calorie surplus for bulking, focus on the appropriate rate of weight gain rather than a specific number of calories.
A combination of increased carbohydrates and proteins is effective in achieving the necessary calorie surplus for muscle gain.
Deep dives
Key Points on Bulking and Health
When implementing a calorie surplus for bulking while prioritizing health, it is important to focus on the appropriate rate of weight gain rather than a specific number of calories. Aim for a weight gain of about 0.5% to 2% of body weight per month, with 1% being a general heuristic. The calorie surplus needed to achieve this is typically around 100-300 extra calories above maintenance. However, there is individual variation in energy expenditure response to overfeeding, so adjustments may be necessary. The goal is to allow muscle gain while minimizing excess body fat.
Optimal Macronutrient Ratio for Bulking
While protein is often the focus, extreme levels are not necessary for muscle gain. A moderate protein intake of around 1.6-2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight is generally sufficient. Carbohydrates play a key role in providing energy for training and recovery, so including adequate carbohydrates is important. A combination of both increased carbohydrates and proteins can be effective in achieving the necessary calorie surplus for muscle gain.
Monitoring and Adjusting the Diet
To monitor the effects of the bulking diet on health and performance, it is essential to regularly track body weight, body composition, and strength progress. Key indicators to monitor include changes in body fat levels, muscle mass improvement, and overall performance in training. If adverse effects on health or performance occur, adjustments can be made to the diet by fine-tuning calorie intake or modifying the macronutrient ratios. The overall approach should be long-term and focused on gradual, sustainable weight gain while prioritizing health.
[02:16] How would you implement a calorie surplus for “bulking” in healthy trainees without compromising their health markers?
[15:25] If you were to advise someone with a heavy workload and busy schedule on how to establish the 80/20 of a healthy lifestyle, what would you tell them?
[24:36] Is coconut oil good or bad? What about claims that it cures cancer, Alzheimer’s, etc.?
[33:25] In the circumstance in which an individual has a normal ApoB yet an elevated LDL particle number, which value is more representative of risk?
[41:39] Should you supplement in order to reach 100% of RDA for micronutrients?
[46:35] Are raw oats a good ingredient to add to smoothies? Do they need to be cooked?
[51:58] Is there any research supporting whether or not diet really impacts oral thrush?
[55:21] Is there any benefit to supplemental collagen?
Note: This is a Premium-exclusive “ask me anything” episode. You can access the full episode as a Premium subscriber. Join here.
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