Renowned sports nutrition expert Prof. Graeme Close discusses the essential principles of maximizing athletic performance through a food-first approach, debunking supplement myths and emphasizing the three T's - timing, type, and total intake. He explores the complexities and challenges of sports nutrition, including iron deficiency, ergogenic substances, and sodium bicarbonate as a game-changer. Prof. Close emphasizes the importance of a 'food first' approach in sports nutrition, advocating for holistic health and performance optimization.

Graeme Close, a Professor of Human Physiology and Head of the Research Institute for Sports and Exercise, dives into the science of hydration. He clarifies whether electrolyte drinks actually outperform plain water in hydration and performance. The conversation shifts to the role of electrolytes in athletic conditions, emphasizing the risks of improper hydration. Close also advocates for personalized hydration strategies tailored to individual sweat rates, challenging common beliefs about sports drinks and electrolyte supplementation.