Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode. May 23, 2012 – free audio podcast: Can Coffee Really Make You Live Longer? Also: panic attacks in open water, bathroom issues during your morning run, preparing for an "endurance weekend", hypermobility syndrome, water filtration, pain while swimming with scoliosis, are Veggie Straws healthy, staying strong while recovering from injury, c-sections and tummy tucks, and building bigger arms while losing weight. Have a podcast question for Ben? Call toll free to 1-877-209-9439, Skype to “pacificfit” or scroll down on this post to access the free “Ask Ben” form. If you have trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail ben@bengreenfieldfitness.com. Also, please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes a minute of your time and it helps grow our healthy community! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get these and other interesting news flashes every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. Can coffee really make you less likely to die? Eating junk food is more costly than eating health food? ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: In lieu of next week's podcast, Ben will be doing multiple Google+ hangouts -  with a focus on big training weeks, recovery and hydration - so be sure to follow the Google+ page to get in on the video hangouts with Ben. US customers can now join Pacific Elite Fitness Prime membership - and get free shipping for the year on Ben Greenfield's recommended nutrition supplements, books, gear and more! Ben now has workouts available - on the PEAR exercise device. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" and now you can get a 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY Superhuman Coach - If you are a coach or personal trainer who wants to join Ben Greenfield's mastermind group, and get access to a monthly meeting with Ben, coach forum, and 10 webinars on Performance, Fat Loss, Recovery Digestion, Brain, Sleep and Sexual Health, along with Ben's "Triathlon Coach Guide" book and his "Triathlon Coach Insider" program, then visit www.superhumancoach.com Thailand Adventure - Join Ben in Thailand this winter for the triathlon adventure of a lifetime at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and the Asia Pacific 70.3 Triathlon! Get all the details at www.pacificfit.net ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from John: He just finished a sprint triathlon. He's been swimming all winter and spring but had a panic attack in the water during the race. Hung on to a canoe for the first time in his life. How can he avoid this in the future? How can he calm his mind during the swim. Audio Question from Terri: She has bowel/bathroom issues during her morning training runs. She eats breakfast, goes to bathroom, walks dogs, goes to the bathroom again, and then again a few more times during the run. She does not have this problem during afternoon and evening runs. ~ In my response to Terri, I mention CapraCleanse and the Squatty Potty. Audio Question from Abe (sorry... I mean Dave): He has an "Endurance Weekend" race coming up: 5k run on Friday, sprint triathlon Saturday morning, followed by 15 mile time trial. Then after a 3 to 4 hour break, there is a 25 mile road race. On Sunday morning there is a "crit". What would you do training, fueling and recovery for the week of the race? ~ Here is my magnesium oil. Audio Question from John: John is considering running the ING New York City Marathon. He has run 2 half marathons, goes to gym 4 times a week, and is in good shape (but could lose 5lbs around stomach). Has a slight case of hypermobility syndrome in his knee. After previous half marathons could barely walk for a few days (due to foot pain). He really wants to do a full marathon but doesn't want to break himself. ~ In my response to John, I mention www.marathondominator.com, since it sounds like he's not really doing much weight training. Greg and Sharon ask: We noticed in one of your videos at home you have a water filtering system. I don't remember the name of it but we looked at it about two years ago and wondered about it (I even contacted the company with my question). When the water is filtered through all of the layers it stays in your container with the filter, right? In other words, you just spent the whole night filtering water, but the filter stays up in the middle of the water after it's filtered. Where did the impurities from the water go? Scott asks: My daughter is a competitive high school swimmer and also has scoliosis (27% curvature). This has been a great activity for her for the past 12 years and I feel has helped keep her body strong. However, this spring season she has developed a sharp pain on exhaling forcefully or on impact (like diving or pushing off the wall). She has never scratched a race, but now is unable to complete a 100 breaststroke. The pain is localized on her left side (the 'low' side of her spinal curvature) below her scapula in her rhomboid. She's been icing, stretching, using ibuprofen, and electo-stim. Do you have any suggestions on how to rehab the injury and any special considerations for rehab and training given her scoliosis? ~ In my response, I mention the book "Stopping Scoliosis". Jenell asks: Now, I know this may come off as a weird question, but what is your take on Veggie Straws by Sensible Portions. They seem to be healthy and are all natural with no preservatives but I have my "guard up" so to speak on them because at times what seems healthy for you really isn't. If you could provide your feed back on this it would be greatly appreciated. ~ In my response, I mention my top 5 quick summer fat loss recipes, including kale chips. Julia asks: I am recovering from a fracture to my tibial plateau and a recently bruised sternum (got a little stupid using a poorly adjusted upright rower @ the gym). Obviously, chest and weight bearing exercise is contraindicated. Do you have any creative exercises to share, particularly ones that can strengthen my lower body in some way. ~ In my response, I mention this article. Carla asks: I'm very lean, normal BMI/BF% , mother of 3. I exercise 5 x a week (cardio/weights/plyometrics/hiit etc), but after 3 C-sections my abs are not responding and I can't get rid of the excess skin in the lower part of my abs. I am considering a tummy tuck. Is there any other way? ~ In my response to Carla, I mention 14 core exercises for when you're pregnant. I also mention skin firming creams from Green Cupboards. Gregory says:I weigh 250 lbs and I'm 31 I want to get bigger arms but I want to loose weight, how do I go about doing this without using small weights? I was told that I should just do a bunch of cardio to drop the weight then start lifting. Others have suggested that I do a circuit with a high heart rate, like do some heavy weights then light weights at high rep then some quick cardio. So, how am I supposed to get/maintain some big muscles and trim down to like 225/230? Prior to asking your question, do a search in upper right hand corner of this website for the keywords associated with your question. Many of the questions we receive have already been answered here at Ben Greenfield Fitness! ====================================== [contact-form-7 id="6222" title="Ask Ben"]====================================== Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code):See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode. In this May 16, 2012 free audio podcast: How To Avoid Sudden Heart Attacks While Running Also: heating saturated oils, thick phlegm during exercise, fasted workouts and back-loading carbs, treating celiac disease naturally, healing rotator cuff tears, getting sick during training, very heavy sweat rates, and knee cartilage removal. Do you have a future podcast question for Ben? Call toll free to 1-877-209-9439, Skype to “pacificfit” or scroll down on this post to access the free “Ask Ben” form... Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail ben@bengreenfieldfitness.com. Also, please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get this and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. "zero calorie" sweeteners actually disrupt your blood sugar & spark your appetite. As long as you're OK with about 1 pound of wt loss per week, you can lose fat & gain muscle at same time. Foam rolling can increase your flexibility by over 12%! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Ben now has workouts available - on the PEAR exercise device. A full 30 week workout - Ben's book, The Ultimate Weight Training Guide For Triathletes is now available on TrainingPeaks. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" and now you can get a 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY Superhuman Coach - If you are a coach or personal trainer who wants to join Ben Greenfield's mastermind group, and get access to a monthly meeting with Ben, coach forum, and 10 webinars on Performance, Fat Loss, Recovery Digestion, Brain, Sleep and Sexual Health, along with Ben's "Triathlon Coach Guide" book and his "Triathlon Coach Insider" program, then visit www.superhumancoach.com Thailand Adventure - Join Ben in Thailand this winter for the triathlon adventure of a lifetime at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and the Asia Pacific 70.3 Triathlon! Get all the details at www.pacificfit.net ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from Chris: We frequently hear about fellow athletes having these profound medical events where they "crash" and it is determined they have a 80-90 percent blockage in an artery! I personally know of two fellow runners who have had this occurrence. Fortunately both survived after open heart surgery. I am amazed that we continually hear about active, well trained athletes who experience near death occurrences in spite of being active. Makes me wonder about all the efforts of preventative healthcare. I understand much of this can be hereditary but am surprised when a well performing athlete crashes with no previous indicators. I am sure that Listeners would be interested if there are test available to screen for life threatening blockages since it appears that it can strike athletes who are training and performing and show no signs in advance. Would a stress treadmill test be an indicator test? ~ In my response to Chris, I mention the HeartMath emWave2. I also mention this article. And (of course) the New England Journal of Medicine's Cardiac Arrest during Long-Distance Running Races. Audio Question from Tony: Udo Erasmus talks about how when you heat saturated fat you damage them and even if you have a good diet you can't reverse the damage from heated oil. What is your opinion on using it for cooking? ~ Episode #127: Why Saturated Fat Won't Kill You But Vegetable Oil Will Audio Question from Josh: Trouble during hard efforts during races. Thought he drank too much water during the swim because of thick phlegm and gunk on the bike and run. Doesn't think it is dietary, doesn't take meds, doesn't want to take pseudoephedrine. Audio Question from Chuck: What is your take on the new protocol "carb back-loading"? Also, you often recommend fasted workouts in the morning to burn fat. How long should you have fasted for that to be beneficial? Can you fast after a workout instead? Audio Question from Jenny: Went to a GI (gastrointestinal) Doctor for stomach problems and found out that she is celiac and has acid reflux. Was prescribed medication for an entire year and doesn't want to take it (and hasn't been taking it). Is there a supplement or natural food to help with this, rather than taking the meds? Audio Question from Shane: Recent recipient of a rotator cuff tear and is worried about the length of recovery. Would you use a Tens Unit or Bio Tools? ~ In my response, I mention the injuries section of my recommendations page. Shaun asks: I am a fairly healthy person but by no means an elite athlete. I find that whenever I make a conscious effort to stick to a 6 week workout program by week 3 I often get sick (cold/flu). I am curious to understand whether or not this is a result of the increased workout causing my body to work overtime in repairing my muscles etc and therefore making me more exposed to germs etc, or is it just coincidence. ~ In my response, I recommend Restwise. Brenden asks: For some reason, I have a VERY high sweat rate. It's ridiculous in the warmer months. You can't draft behind me. I know most likely a genetic item, yet wanted to ensure there wasn't something homeopathic or completely safe and natural I was missing. I'm clear on how I simply need to hydrate more, supplementing electrolytes and minerals, yet would love to find something that helps me retain this stuff in the first place. Very costly and significant disadvantage in comparison to my more sweat efficient competition. You get the picture. ~ In my response, I recommend Noakes book Waterlogged. I also recommend these Trace Mineral. Doug asks: I have a question for Graeme Turner. There was a podcast done with Ben and Graemeconcerning running drills. One of the comments that Graeme mentioned was that he had all the cartilage in his knees removed and is now running better than ever. My question concerns my wife, who due to tears and arthritis has either none or little cartilage left in her knees. Graeme is running while my wife can barely walk due to the pain and swelling. What I am trying to find out is how and why. Drills are not really an answer, as I would like to get her walking pain free first. Her knees are really swollen. Steps or angles are really painful to negotiate. Any chance you can give me information of treatments or procedures that you went through. The consultants are saying that full knee replacements are the only option. I have looked at Prolotherapy, but this seems to be more repair of muscles and cartilage, which you need to have cartilage first. Grafting appears to also be out as again you need to have something to graft too. I have also read about cartilage replacement, using cadavers. However in the UK the NHS is not the most forward thinking organization. At age 43, she is too young for replacements, as I believe they would wear out too quickly, due to the amount of movement she would do. The average knee replacement seem to only last a maximum of 10 years, and you can only have it done twice. We appear to be running out of options, but am trying to resist replacements. Prior to asking your question, do a search in upper right hand corner of this website for the keywords associated with your question. Many of the questions we receive have already been answered here at Ben Greenfield Fitness! ====================================== [contact-form-7 id="6222" title="Ask Ben"]====================================== Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code):See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben stopped into the home office during a quick 10 hour layover en route from the Wildflower triathlon in California (pictured above) to the Superhuman workshop in Dubai, and recorded a short audio for you in lieu of the normally scheduled weekly podcast… See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us know that workout songs and music can help you to exercise harder. But if you understand how sound and music actually change your brain waves, you can use this knowledge to alter your mental and physical performance states with laser accuracy. It sounds geeky, but I’m going to explain how… At first glance, [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode. In this May 2, 2012 free audio podcast: What Makes Women Gain Weight As They Get Older And What To Do About It Also: Do recovery boots work, swish and spit carbohydrates, how does cold effect calories burnt, opposing muscle strength ratios, coffee and dark circles under your eyes, reversing the damage from frostbite, decreasing libido, matcha tea, do veggies make you more attractive, and a good half marathon race strategy. Do you have a future podcast question for Ben? Call toll free to 1-877-209-9439, Skype to “pacificfit” or scroll down on this post to access the free “Ask Ben” form... Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail ben@bengreenfieldfitness.com. Also, please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get this and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. You don't need to lift with high weight, low reps to build muscle. In populations who are primarily barefoot or primarily shoed, the bare foots win out with lower injury rate. First study I've seen that suggest exercise may NOT actually cause you to eat more later. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Ben now has workouts available - on the PEAR exercise device. A full 30 week workout - Ben's book, The Ultimate Weight Training Guide For Triathletes is now available on TrainingPeaks. Ben Greenfield is presenting the "Become Superhuman" workshop - May 11 & 12, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, in Dubai. Get more details. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" and now you can get a 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY Superhuman Coach - If you are a coach or personal trainer who wants to join Ben Greenfield's mastermind group, and get access to a monthly meeting with Ben, coach forum, and 10 webinars on Performance, Fat Loss, Recovery Digestion, Brain, Sleep and Sexual Health, along with Ben's "Triathlon Coach Guide" book and his "Triathlon Coach Insider" program, then visit www.superhumancoach.com Thailand Adventure - Join Ben in Thailand this winter for the triathlon adventure of a lifetime at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and the Asia Pacific 70.3 Triathlon! Get all the details at www.pacificfit.net ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Robert says: G'day Ben I have a question for the podcast. I wanted to know what your thoughts are on the Recovery Pump compression boots, also its competitor NormaTec also as a comparison. Their claims seem to be supported and they do what they claim to do from the literature I have read. Have you tried them? What would the effect of the recovery pump be when treating peroneal synovitis? Or other tendinopathies? Would you recommend this as a recovery modality with other traditional methods such as ice baths, NSAID's etc. Kathryn asks: I've read about recent research that found that swishing a mouthful of carbohydrate solution and then spitting it out rather than swallowing was effective in providing energy for a workout. Would this be an effective way to train in a fasted state occasionally, as Ben recommends, without the negative effects of inadequate fueling? I'm someone that doesn't tend to do well without food before my am workouts, even easy recovery type activity but I would like to try some fasted workouts occasionally. Rob asks: How many calories are you really burning when it is 10 degrees out. If I run 13 miles and my little Garmin says I have burned 1300 calories, how much does the cold, and my body dealing with the cold, add to the equation? Anton asks: I was wondering if there was ever a study done about inter-relationships of the amount of weight opposing muscle groups can lift. What I mean by that is: if I can bench press 225 10x should my shoulders be strong enough to handle say lateral raises with 35lbs 10x or shoulder presses with 130lbs 10x so on and so forth. Or be able to do 10 perfect form underhand pull ups (body weight of 210) and that would be equal to curling say 110lbs 10x? Jason asks: I developed dark circles under my eyes for the first time in my life in 2004 during a time of heavy work stress and little sleep. When I was able to return to a healthier lifestyle the dark circles persisted. Only later did I make the connection that I had also started drinking coffee during that same time period. I have been able to rule out caffeine as the cause by consuming sources of caffeine while abstaining from coffee, and I don't experience the raccoon eyes. Many sources refer to allergies as a common source of dark circles, but I have not found any sources referring to coffee as a possible allergen. Any ideas if coffee could cause an allergic reaction? If so, other than staying away from coffee, are there any other related food or beverage sources that I should also avoid? Love the podcast, keep up the good work and thank you very much. Brad asks: Always love the podcasts, and thanks for all the help you give. When I was in high school, I ran a winter race in zero degree windchill, and stupidly didn't wear gloves. I'm pretty sure I had what I now know to be second degree frostbite, but never saw a doctor about it. Now, ten years later, I still get tear-inducingly painful cold hands very easily, and have to wear gloves at pretty much all times outdoors except for the summer months. I've looked for alternative explanations, and my symptoms don't seem to match up with Raynaud's. Is this normal for a post-frostbite victim, and are there ways to reverse the effects? ~ In my response to Brad, I mention Sweet Sweat at www.sweetsweat.com Anonymous Podcast Fan writes: Often, you cover how to increase libido. How about the other side of the coin? Are there ways to decrease libido without negatively impacting health or fitness? Angie asks: I'm interested in knowing more about the link between hormone imbalances and fat stored in particular parts of the body. I am currently working on the reduction of fat in general through a combination of Metabolic Typing, a healthy diet and exercise however i seem to have more fat around the back of my upper arms down to my elbow compared to other parts of my body and wondered if there were any truth in some of the articles i have read regarding specific hormone imbalances causing fat to be stored in particular areas of the body and if you can give any advice whether from a hormone or exercise perspective which i can incorporate into my existing routine (heavy weights/interval training mainly). Huge thanks as always for all the amazing content you put out every day! ~ In my response to Angie, I mention estrogen dominance symptoms. Brian wrote: A friend told me about the benefits of MATCHA TEA for weight loss and general health benefits, which peaked my interest. I brew green tea daily from loose tea leaves, and have decided to make the switch to Match Tea. I used MATCHATEASOURCE.COM to purchase the tea. The site touts the many benefits of Matcha Tea. I googled your website for matcha and there were zero hits. What do you know about the benefits of matcha and would you recommend this stuff as part of a healthy nutritional plan. I'm interested in lowering my weight and keeping it down below 200lbs. My metabolic typing diet pegs me as a mixed type. My nutrition, when I'm disciplined, is whole, natural foods, about 35% protein, 40% fats and 25% carbs. Vegetables and fish are a common dinner. My morning meal is generally steal cut oats or quinoa with Heed2 30. My daily supplements include: Enerprime, Vitamin D nano spray, Magnesium oil (Ancient Minerals), fish oil (pharmac), Oil of Oregano, and Udo's 3-6-9 Oil. Will Matcha be that kick-ass metabolism boost I'm looking for? Adam asks: I was wondering if you could comment on the accuracy of this article about how eating more vegetables can make you look better. Brock interjects:What would you ideally recommend as a good Half Marathon race strategy? Prior to asking your question, do a search in upper right hand corner of this website for the keywords associated with your question. Many of the questions we receive have already been answered here at Ben Greenfield Fitness! ====================================== [contact-form-7 id="6222" title="Ask Ben"]====================================== Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code):See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Migraine headaches are different than other headaches. They’re tough to get rid of, but very closely related to your nervous system activity, and specifically your autonomic nervous system response to foods and stress. Today, you’ll learn how to use these concepts to get rid of migraine headaches forever. This morning, my wife posted this to [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode. In this Apr 25, 2012 free audio podcast: What Happens When You Exercise Too Much Also: the ketogenic diet vs. the metabolic typing diet, are e-cigarettes a healthy alternative, which is better ground turkey or beef, what is mugicha, should you take a hot or cold bath post exercise, a list of healthy oils, bonking hours after a workout, does protein influence fat loss, and do beets cause cancer? Do you have a future podcast question for Ben? Call toll free to 1-877-209-9439, Skype to “pacificfit” or scroll down on this post to access the free “Ask Ben” form... Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail ben@bengreenfieldfitness.com. Also, please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get this and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. Some say exercise doesn't help you lose weight. Here's what the science says. From Google+: Eating breakfast makes you healthier. Want more power? If you're already lifting fast & explosively, a mouthguard (like this) actually helps. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Ben now has workouts available - on the PEAR exercise device. A full 30 week workout - Ben's book, The Ultimate Weight Training Guide For Triathletes is now available on TrainingPeaks. Ben Greenfield is presenting the "Become Superhuman" workshop - May 11 & 12, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, in Dubai. Get more details. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" and now you can get a 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY Superhuman Coach - If you are a coach or personal trainer who wants to join Ben Greenfield's mastermind group, and get access to a monthly meeting with Ben, coach forum, and 10 webinars on Performance, Fat Loss, Recovery Digestion, Brain, Sleep and Sexual Health, along with Ben's "Triathlon Coach Guide" book and his "Triathlon Coach Insider" program, then visit www.superhumancoach.com Thailand Adventure - Join Ben in Thailand this winter for the triathlon adventure of a lifetime at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and the Asia Pacific 70.3 Triathlon! Get all the details at www.pacificfit.net ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from Brandon: How does a ketogenic diet relate to or work with the metabolic typing diet? ~ In my response to Brandon, I mention episode #187. Audio Question from Joe: Smoker for almost 10 years who quit cold turkey 2 years ago. Is an age grouper in great shape. The only issue is when he's stressed or has a good "buzz-on" he wants a cigarette. Are e-cigarettes a viable option to have in a pinch? ~ In my response to Joseph, I mention Dietary Supplements That Can Massively Control Your Most Intense Carb Cravings. Dave asks: There is a lot of old health trends being busted in the last 10 years, can you bust this one? Is ground turkey really more healthier than ground beef? I need to know... beef is sure more tastier! Keith asks: I know you like kombucha. What do you think about Mugi cha (barley tea)? It was in every kids thermos all summer long. Actually everyone drinks it from housewives to office workers. Ice baths after exercise are all I hear about these days on podcasts and in magazines but here in Japan almost every house has a high tech bathtub and 40 deg C plus soaks are a nightly family ritual (my wife prefers 40 but her dad likes 42, I can only stand 39). Is a hot bath after a normal exercise session for an uninjured runner a no no? After a recent 1/2 marathon the nearest hot spring was packed with racers. I confess I have taken a hot bath before my winter long run on occasion. Osa asks: Your food pyramid and consideration to eat more fat is working for me. I can go long without eating and am slimming down effortlessly. My question is that you recommend Avocado oil as healthy fatty oil that was not listed. What other healthy fatty oils would you recommend to use that you did not list? Also what do you think about Almond oil?   Mike asks: About 2 hours after every workout I bonk hard. I could crawl into bed and go to sleep. The worst part about it is that I then get very edgy and my temper gets very short. I generally workout in the mornings with minimal food in my stomach and I eat generally within 2 hours after the workout, more often than not it is within 1 hour. What type of testing can/should I do to see what is going on? ~ In my response to Mike, I recommend a hormonal panel through www.directlabs.com, and also the Expanded GI panel. Keerthi asks: I'm a 28 yr old and weigh 171 lbs with 20% body fat. I have a pretty active lifestyle which includes lifting weights 3 times a week and 2-3 times a week of good 45 mins cardio with intervals etc. My goal is to lose some fat and build lean mass and I'm on a 2000 calorie diet with carb/protein/fat in ratio of 40/30/30 but I sometimes go a bit high on protein and might add 200 more calories. Does this excess protein convert into fat or does it just tax the kidneys a little more and get flushed out? Do you have any more suggestions on changing the ratio of carb/protein/fat intake and still create some calorie deficit. ~ In my response, I mention my article "How Much Protein Do You Need". Meghan says: I got blood tests at the end of December and my TSH was pretty high 4.6 but they were not too concerned because my T4 and T3 were normal but I wanted to get tested again just in case. I just got tested on Friday (about 1 1/2 months from the last test) and it is now 8.45! And the T4 is still normal. So they want to put me on Sythyroid. I know from listening to the Roby Mitchell podcast interview that he thinks for some Synthyroid is good but Armor Thyroid might be better. So, two questions: 1) Is Synthyroid OK? Or should I definitely be taking Armor Thyroid? 2) Should I be getting another test or can a jump from 4.6 to 8.45 happen that quickly? 3) Could the cause be over-training? The only thing that has changed in my life since the December test is going from about 10-12ish hours a week of training to double workout days and more like 18-25 hours a week of training? 4) I already take iodine 150mcg and magnesium 500mg (along with topical on my legs every night)....should I be taking selenium too? HELP! P.S Have eliminated virtually all wheat and soy (1/3 cup of edamame with veggies for dinner, and 2 whole wheat graham crackers with banana for snack) from diet and upped the protein, veggies, and fat.... Renee Asks: I'm a 32-year-old female runner and rower. I stay very active, working out daily, and mix it up with a combination of running, rowing, spin classes, boot camps, and lifting. I like to compete in running and rowing races. About a year ago, I saw a sports medicine doctor who discovered that my cortisol levels were sky high. She suggested I try going off birth control pills, which I'd been on for over a decade. I did, and immediately, cortisol plunged to normal levels. However, I have yet to get a period. My regular doctor suggested that I need to dramatically cut back on exercise in order to start menstruating again. The sports doctor believes the continued exercise is okay, and thinks it's a matter of getting the nutrition right around the exercising. I've already added much more food intake before and after each workout. Even though I'm taking in many more calories, I still haven't gotten my period back. Any suggestions? I want to start trying to get pregnant later this year, so I need to figure this out. Ed asks:I have been hearing that Beetroot juice is beneficial to endurance athletes. Beets contain a lot of nitrates. Nitrates are suspected carcinogens in processed meats. Are beets carcinogenic? Prior to asking your question, do a search in upper right hand corner of this website for the keywords associated with your question. Many of the questions we receive have already been answered here at Ben Greenfield Fitness! ====================================== [contact-form-7 id="6222" title="Ask Ben"]====================================== Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code):See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When I was in college, one of my roommates was totally geeked out on body language. He had shelves full of books about how to get what you want with your body language, including how to tell if people are lying based on their body language, how to sell with your body language, and how [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode. In this Apr 18, 2012 free audio podcast: What To Do When Allergies Affect Your Exercise. Also: how much do you need to eat after an endurance event, is Tri-Ripped or Triathlon Dominator better for a 70.3, a genetic test to determine your potential aerobic capacity, how to heal a bruise, controlling the side effects of prednisone, how to reduce migraines, should you use the mess out of 7-Keto DHEA, and wearing minimalist shoes on a bike. Do you have a future podcast question for Ben? Call toll free to 1-877-209-9439, Skype to “pacificfit” or scroll down on this post to access the free “Ask Ben” form... Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail ben@bengreenfieldfitness.com. Also, please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get this and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. Wii Fit blows treadmill walking out of the water. Interesting that speed appears to put runners at higher risk of injury than volume. Supplements like "Sport Legs" & others that preload you with lactate appear NOT to be effective. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: The squatty potty - is what Ben used before he won his latest sprint triathlon. A full 30 week workout - Ben's book, The Ultimate Weight Training Guide For Triathletes is now available on TrainingPeaks. Ben Greenfield is presenting the "Become Superhuman" workshop - May 11 & 12, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, in Dubai. Get more details. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" and now you can get a 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY Superhuman Coach - If you are a coach or personal trainer who wants to join Ben Greenfield's mastermind group, and get access to a monthly meeting with Ben, coach forum, and 10 webinars on Performance, Fat Loss, Recovery Digestion, Brain, Sleep and Sexual Health, along with Ben's "Triathlon Coach Guide" book and his "Triathlon Coach Insider" program, then visit www.superhumancoach.com Thailand Adventure - Join Ben in Thailand this winter for the triathlon adventure of a lifetime at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and the Asia Pacific 70.3 Triathlon! Get all the details at www.pacificfit.net ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from Megan: When you do a big event like a marathon or Ironman in the days after the event is it true that you have a bigger caloric need. If so, what would the percentage be? She eats good/healthy food after the event but wants to know how much more she might need or not need to consume. ~ Resources I mention to Megan: Enerprime, Capragreens or SuperGreens, Tian Chi for adaptogenic herbs, Energy28 for Maca, Caprazymes and Caprobiotics, and Betaine HCL. Audio Question from Josh: Can seasonal allergies cause his heart rate to get really really low? In April and May he can't get into Zone 4 or 5 while riding. His standing rate is 40 or 50 BPM! Christian says: My wife and I ran a 1/2 marathon today. She appears to have a significant histamine reaction causing vasodilatation every time she runs significant distances. Her arms and legs turn purplish red and she feels her blood pressure drops. She dumps cold water on her arms each aid station and that helps some. The problem is worse when it is hot outside. Her hydration and nutrition are good. Her liquid nutrition has electrolytes and she adds a salt tablet to her water bottle. I recall your podcast interview about not needing electrolytes but adding salt seems to help her. What other thoughts do you have? Audio Question from Brian: He is planning a 70.3 in January. Which program of yours would you recommend: Tri-Ripped or Triathlon Dominator? Audio Question from Hunt(?): He recently watched "The Truth About Exercise" and saw a genetic test that can guess the potential of an individual's aerobic capacity. He's interested in learning more about that test. Audio Question from Jerry: He fell 6 feet on to a mat while bordering which caused pain in the arch of his foot. He called it quits, went home and the next morning there was swelling and bruising (hematoma). He has been using ice, ultrasound and e-stim and is wondering if there are any other ways to speed up the healing? Tommy asks: My wife is a runner and suffers from ulcerative colitis. She has a really clean diet no grains, no dairy or legumes. Her recent flair up sent her to the doctor and they put her on prednisone. 30mg 2 weeks, 20mg 2 weeks, 10mg 2 weeks. Within 24 hr of her first dose her symptoms were much improved. What side effects can she expect, will it effect her running? Is it possible to offset the prednisone side effects with diet and supplementation. What can she expect as the dosage decreases? ~ In my response, I recommend the GAPS diet. Adam says: My wife suffers from migraines at least once every 2 months (usually once a month), to the point where she's bed ridden (normally a few hours) until she throws up then the pain subsides within an hour. The doctors reckon it could be her pill, but I wanted your take on it. She eats the standard typical high cho mod pro low fat (enjoys the odd egg) approach diet. Has no known illnesses. Is a fitness instructor and healthy. Have you heard of this before? Is there any known issues of substances or food groups that could induce this reaction? Dylan says: I know some guys at my gym are talking this 7-Keto DHEA stuff up. Is it a scam? My number one goal is fat loss. If it can indeed increase my thyroid T3, I'll buy the mess out of it! Phil asks:I am way into minimalist running shoes and use them all the time I am at the gym - for weight training, treadmill, elliptical, rowing. I use the Merrell Trail Glove, which looks like a "normal" shoe (no separate toe compartments). During the week, I try to mix up the cardio day-to-day. There are spinning bikes in the gym with toe clips and I'd like to add them to my cardio repertoire. Given my time constraints, I cannot switch to my (stiff) cycling shoes. So my question is - What are your thoughts on cycling (100 rpm hard intervals) in minimalist running shoes? I have tried the shoes without any problems, but I wondered if you knew of anything showing this to be contraindicated. Prior to asking your question, do a search in upper right hand corner of this website for the keywords associated with your question. Many of the questions we receive have already been answered here at Ben Greenfield Fitness! ====================================== [contact-form-7 id="6222" title="Ask Ben"]====================================== Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code):See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.