
Flex Diet Podcast
Dr. Mike T Nelson gets geeky with the latest research and scientific findings in the fitness world. Visit www.flexdiet.com to get Flex Diet Certified and www.miketnelson.com for more geeky goodness.
Latest episodes

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 1min
Episode 287: Insights and Innovations in HRV and Aerobic Training with coach Joel Jamieson
Join me, Dr. Mike T Nelson, on today's episode of the Flex Diet Podcast with coach Joel Jamieson. Joel shares insights from his journey with the Omega wave system and discusses his creation of the Morpheus app. You'll learn how HRV can be used to optimize training, especially in conjunction with aerobic fitness. This episode explores the role of steady-state aerobic training versus high-intensity workouts and the importance of individualizing training protocols based on HRV outcomes. We also discuss the significant variation in physiological responses among elite athletes. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Flex 4: Dr Mike's top 4 HRV tips: https://miketnelson.com/flex4/Episode Chapters:00:15 Guest Introduction: Joel Jameson01:05 Physiologic Flexibility Certification Announcement03:06 Exploring Exogenous Ketones04:33 HRV and Omega Wave System Origins05:21 Early Experiences with HRV12:35 Insights from Using Omega Wave18:52 Genetic Variability in Athletic Performance26:30 Anecdotes of Elite Athletes31:11 Understanding Individualized Training31:25 HRV and Training Interventions32:55 The Importance of Enjoyable Recovery34:02 Developing BioForce and Morpheus36:50 Challenges and Insights in HRV46:50 Aerobic Fitness and Training Balance53:47 Future of Morpheus and Final Thoughts Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 215: Breathing, Heart Rate, and HRV: An Interview with Dr. Scotty Butcher, The Strength Jedi Episode 108: Top 3 Common Body Composition Mistakes and How To Use Heart Rate Variability (HRV) To Solve ThemConnect with Joel:8 Weeks Out: https://8weeksout.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachjoeljamieson/Get In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 13min
Episode 286: Exploring Gender Differences in Exercise and Nutrition with Dr. Katie Hirsch
In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Katie Hirsch, an assistant professor at the University of South Carolina. We delve into the potential differences between how men and women should approach exercise and nutrition. Dr. Hirsch shares her extensive research on protein synthesis, metabolic flexibility, and the effects of hormones on physical performance. We also discuss the practical implications of studies on fasting, keto diets, and creatine supplementation for women. Additionally, Dr. Hirsch offers insight into training adaptations relative to the female menstrual cycle and addresses the unique challenges faced by women during perimenopause and menopause. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Flex 4: Dr Hirsch's top four exercise-related interventions for women: https://miketnelson.com/flex4/Episode Chapters:00:30 Introducing Dr. Katie Hirsch01:01 Differences in Exercise Physiology Between Genders01:57 Practical Applications and Anecdotal Evidence02:50 Ketone Supplements and Their Benefits04:20 Interview with Dr. Katie Hirsch Begins04:52 Challenges in Studying Female Physiology06:15 Metabolic Flexibility and Gender Differences18:23 Menopause and Metabolic Dysregulation26:33 Hormone Replacement Therapy and Menopause29:19 Fasting and Keto Diets for Women37:04 The Pressure of Body Image on Women37:23 Training According to Female Cycles38:08 Practical Challenges in Cycle-Based Training39:59 Tracking Symptoms and Adjusting Training47:25 Nutrient Timing and Protein Importance52:25 Creatine and Supplementation for Women01:01:11 Research Gaps and Future Directions01:08:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 267: Demystifying Women’s Fitness and Nutrition with Alli FahrenbachEpisode 266: Health Beyond the Gym with Expert Advice on Wellness and Aging From Ashleigh VanHoutenConnect with Dr Hirsch:University of South Carolina: https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/public_health/faculty-staff/hirsch_katie.phpInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie.hirsch_phd/Get In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Sep 23, 2024 • 54min
Episode 285: Integrating Performance and Health with Expert Austin Stout
Join me, Dr. Mike T Nelson, on this Flex Diet Podcast as I sit down with Austin Stout to discuss the balance between performance and health, especially in high-level competitive athletes, powerlifters, and bodybuilders. We delve into the importance of integrating health into performance routines, the ramifications of frequent competitions, and strategies to maintain health while pushing athletic limits.We also touch on how lab testing, HRV, mental health, and finding balance through recreational activities are key components in an athlete's journey. Austin shares his expertise in working with elite competitors and the general population, emphasizing the significance of recovery and the sustainability of performance over time. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters00:15 Guest Introduction: Austin Stout01:05 Integrating Health and Performance01:36 The Extremes of Competitive Sports02:58 Functional Health in Bodybuilding07:36 Genetics and Adaptations in Athletes11:04 Challenges in Female Competitors14:59 Addressing Health Issues in Athletes17:31 Stress Management and Recovery22:59 Balancing Identity and Health29:18 High-Level Athletes and Adversity30:27 Adversity in Everyday Life31:43 Fear vs. Difficulty in Training33:43 The Importance of Recovery37:54 The Role of Data in Training42:56 Psychological Factors in Performance48:33 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 165: Health, Sports Performance and Longevity Medicine: Dr Rick Cohen with Dr. Mike T Nelson Episode 198: The role of hormones in health and exercise performance: An interview with Mike MahlerConnect with Austin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinst8/Integrated Muscle and Health: https://integrated-muscle.com/Get In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 15min
Episode 284: Progressive Overload and Real-World Science with Dr. Mike Lane
Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Mike T Nelson. In this episode, Dr. Mike Lane, Associate Professor at EKU, and I explore the science and practice of progressive overload and training modulation. We discuss strategies for enhancing muscle performance and body composition, emphasize the importance of consistent training, and consider genetic factors in fitness. Dr. Lane shares insights on balancing academic research with real-world application, offering valuable tips for graduate students and fitness professionals. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters:00:20 Meet Dr. Mike Lane00:37 Progressive Overload Explained01:52 Ketones and Cognitive Function03:39 Reintroducing Dr. Mike Lane04:20 The Importance of Progressive Overload07:08 Training Consistency and Intensity07:51 Periodization in Training09:52 Genetics and Training Adaptations11:40 Training Volume and Individual Differences24:20 Frequency and Volume in Training29:27 Quality of Work and Intensity Modulation41:03 Understanding Metabolic Stress in Exercise41:10 Teaching Exercise Physiology: Insights and Anecdotes42:58 The Mental and Physical Challenges of High-Intensity Training51:09 The Impact of Aerobic Conditioning on Work Capacity54:29 Louie Simmons and the Westside Barbell Training Philosophy59:19 Adapting Training Techniques for Different Athletes01:06:57 Concluding Thoughts and Practical Advice Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 272: Mastering Strength and Body Composition with Paul Oneid: Strategies for Peak Performance Episode 237: Demystifying Body Composition Testing with Dr Grant Tinsley and Dr Eric HelmsConnect with Dr. Lane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelanephd/Eastern Kentucky University: https://www.eku.edu/honors/lane/Get In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Sep 9, 2024 • 1h 4min
Episode 283: Unlocking Better Sleep and Stress Reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen of Soltec Health
Join me, Dr. Mike T. Nelson, on this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast as I dive deep into the world of sleep enhancement and stress reduction with Dr. Dan Cohen from Soltec Health. We discuss the company's innovative magnetic device designed to improve sleep quality and reduce stress.Dr. Cohen explains the science behind how Earth's magnetic fields can influence our autonomic nervous system and how this passive device can enhance deep sleep, recovery, and overall health. The episode also covers heart rate variability, the importance of deep sleep, and practical tips for better sleep hygiene. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Sleep Magnet by Soltec Health: use the code DRMIKE to save money at checkout.Flex 4: Dr. Cohen's top 4 tips for better sleep at nightEpisode Chapters:02:01 Introducing Dr. Dan Cohen and Soltec Health02:53 Personal Experience with Soltec Health Device03:47 Deep Dive into Sleep and Stress10:38 The Evolution of the Nervous System13:37 Heart Rate Variability and Frequency Analysis21:18 Developing a Personalized Wearable Device28:06 Exploring Hibernation and Human Sleep32:26 The Role of Ghrelin and Leptin in Sleep and Weight Regulation33:26 Exploring Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Responses34:47 Understanding the Device and Its Mechanism35:24 The Science Behind Earth Magnets and PEMF41:13 Impact of Deep Sleep on Health and Aging43:37 Improving Sleep Quality with Technology50:38 The Importance of REM Sleep and Sleep Cycles54:19 Enhancing Neuroplasticity for Better Sleep56:29 Napping and Stress Reduction Features58:32 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 273: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights and Strategies from Dr. Chris PerryS2_EP_47: Tools to Down-Regulate in Response to Stress, an interview with Rick AlexanderGet In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 14min
REBROADCAST Episode 164: How to use diagnostic testing to improve your metabolic health: An Interview with Sam Miller
Sam's backgroundMetabolic testingWhat's the purpose?What's the benefit of having the information?What health markers should we pay attention to?Calorie trackingWeight measurementsWhat tests are usefulInterpreting resultsFasting insulin vs. C PeptideThoughts on testosterone levelsOther tests Sam usesWhat happens when things don't add up?GI testsAnything new on the horizon?FInd Sam Miller on IGSam Miller ScienceSam Miller Science Podcast on iTunesThis podcast is brought to you by the Physiologic Flexibility Certification course. In the course, I talk about the body's homeostatic regulators and how you can train them. The benefit is enhanced recovery and greater robustness. We cover breathing techniques, CWI, sauna, HIIT, diet, and more.

Aug 30, 2024 • 24min
Episode 279: Update and Reflections from the Super Coach Summit - a solocast with Dr Mike T Nelson
It's just me, Dr. Mike T Nelson, on today's episode of the Flex Diet Podcast. I share some updates and reflections from my coaching and training journey. I also recount my experience at the Coach Catalyst Super Coach Meeting Summit, a fantastic event that blended presentations on training, business, and mindset and offered a great opportunity to connect with fellow coaches and enthusiasts.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters:(0:00:00) - Coaching and training update(0:04:17) - The No. 1 career question I get(0:10:24) - The value of a Mentor(0:12:33) - Timeline for the Flex Diet and Phys Flex Certifications enrollment periods, plus a brief overview Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 197: The Ultimate Guide to Online Fitness Business Do’s and Don’ts – An Interview with Chris and Eric Martinez Episode 216: Building a successful online fitness coaching business: An Interview with Aaron StrakerGet In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Aug 19, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 278: Dan Churchwell’s Journey to Sustainable Weight Loss and Vibrant Living
Join me, Dr Mike T Nelson, on the Flex Diet Podcast as I flip the script and have my good friend and client, Dan Churchwell, take over the reins to interview me about his incredible weight loss journey. Listen in as Dan shares his background, growing up active in the Black Hills of South Dakota, and his struggle with weight gain from puberty despite being an avid mountain biker and competitive swimmer.We discussed how he lost over 60 pounds and reduced his medications from six to one. This episode offers valuable tips and principles for anyone looking to improve their own health and fitness and for trainers aiming to help their clients achieve similar success.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters:(0:00:00) - Dr. Mike's Weight Loss Success Interview(0:13:56) - Nutrition Awareness and Protein Intake(0:26:15) - Empowering Clients Through Self-Navigation(0:29:48) - Personalized Journey to Sustainable Weight Loss(0:34:17) - Benefits of Simplified Exercise and Nutrition(0:38:36) - Daily Movement for Health and Productivity(0:50:31) - Debunking Myths About Creatine Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 209: How to achieve your fat loss goals while not overly restrictive: an interview with the author of “You Can’t Screw This Up,” Adam Bornstein Episode 244: Mindful Consumption and Exercise Insights with Jovi and Evita from Joviita LifestyleGet In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Aug 12, 2024 • 52min
Episode 277: Listener Questions with Dr Mike T Nelson
Join me, Dr Mike T Nelson, on the Flex Diet Podcast for an engaging "Ask Me Anything" session where I address a wide range of listener questions accumulated over recent months. Listen in as I recount my visits to Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, a functional neurologist, to address my unique visual processing challenge. I share insights on intermittent fasting and sauna safety. Drawing inspiration from Brad Pilon's Eat Stop Eat method, I discuss my preferred fasting approach for body composition and stress the importance of gradual adaptation. This episode also provides updates on my summer projects, including my collaboration with Coach Cal Dietz on the Triphasic II book and my upcoming book on metabolic flexibility with co-author Gianna.For those interested in training and nutrition, particularly for perimenopausal women, I explore how individualized plans can address common challenges such as higher stress levels and lower aerobic capacity. The discussion also covers the benefits of exogenous ketones in managing hunger and energy levels. Lastly, I share my thoughts on using AI for writing and content creation, while addressing common gym pet peeves. Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters:00:47 Introduction to Ketone Esters03:49 Functional Neurology11:50 Intermittent Fasting Insights14:04 Sauna Use and Fertility15:41 Kiteboarding and Personal Records19:30 Current Training Regimen27:48 Training Schedule and Goals28:47 Training Women in Perimenopause and Menopause31:50 Exogenous Ketones and Their Benefits35:39 Using AI for Content Creation39:43 Gym Rules and Etiquette44:52 Kambo Experience 50:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 241: A New Perspective on Brain Health with Dr. Shaun KornfeldEpisode 114: How To Be More Robust and Antifragile with Cold Water Immersion and Sauna: The Barbell Model of Phys FlexGet In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode 276: Understanding Osteopathic Medicine and GLP-1 Agonists with Dr Chris Morrissey
Join me, Dr Mike T Nelson, on the Flex Diet Podcast as I explore the pros and cons of GLP-1 agonists like Wagovi and Ozempic with Dr. Chris Morrissey, a fitness professional and general surgeon. Dr. Morrissey shares his unique insights on the benefits and potential risks of these medications, along with his top recommendations for optimizing results and mitigating risks. We also discuss the challenges of training in extreme heat, sharing personal experiences and tips for acclimatization, and compare notes on how our bodies adapt to varying temperatures, with a preference for cold-weather training.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%Dr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Episode Chapters:(0:00:00) - Medications and Training in the Heat(0:09:04) - Physician Training and GLP-1 Agonists(0:14:17) - Medications and Gallbladder Issues(0:22:52) - Appendicitis, Intestinal Issues, and Medications(0:35:30) - Risk and Consequences of Medications(0:40:25) - Potential Consequences of Weight-Loss Medications(0:52:22) - Monitoring Progress and Motivation Through Data(0:56:53) - Concerts and Music Talk Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 140: 3 Common Health Procedures You Need To Know About with Dr Chris MorrisseyEpisode 263: Lifestyle, Longevity, and the Future of GLP-1 Agonist Use in Wellness with Christa RymalConnect with Chris:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themorrisseymovement33/Website: https://www.m9maximumperformance.com/Get In Touch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/