Salt capsules vs salty chews vs drink mix: which to pack for ultras

Introduction: Ultra-endurance events, such as ultramarathons, require careful planning and consideration of nutrition strategies to sustain energy levels and performance. One crucial aspect of nutrition during these events is managing electrolyte balance, particularly sodium levels. Athletes often face the dilemma of choosing between salt capsules, salty chews, or electrolyte drink mixes to replenish sodium levels …

DIY sweat sodium testing at home: towel method plus math

Introduction: Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate body temperature, but did you know that the salt content of your sweat can vary significantly from person to person? Monitoring sweat sodium levels can provide valuable insights into your hydration status and electrolyte balance. While professional sweat sodium testing is available, a do-it-yourself (DIY) method …

Electrolyte targets per liter by sweat sodium band: a simple matrix

Introduction: In the realm of sports science and performance nutrition, understanding electrolyte targets based on sweat sodium concentration plays a crucial role in optimizing hydration strategies for athletes. Electrolytes are essential minerals that help maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Sweat sodium concentration varies among individuals, impacting the amount of electrolytes lost during …

Sodium acetate vs sodium citrate vs sodium chloride: taste and gut trade-offs

Sodium acetate vs sodium citrate vs sodium chloride: Taste and Gut Trade-offs Sodium acetate, sodium citrate, and sodium chloride are commonly used food additives with distinct flavors and potential gut health implications. Understanding the differences between these salts is essential for making informed dietary choices. This article explores the taste profiles, gut effects, and trade-offs …

Bicarbonate with peppermint tea or ginger: two simple GI fixes

Bicarbonate with Peppermint Tea or Ginger: Two Simple GI Fixes Gastrointestinal (GI) issues like indigestion, bloating, and acid reflux are common problems that many people face. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help alleviate these symptoms without the need for medication. Two simple and effective GI fixes involve using bicarbonate with either peppermint tea …

Bicarbonate priming across a meet weekend: split-dose planner

Introduction Bicarbonate priming has become a popular strategy among athletes, especially in the realm of high-intensity sports. This article will delve into the concept of bicarbonate priming across a meet weekend, focusing on the split-dose planner. By breaking down the process, providing examples, statistics, and various perspectives, we aim to offer a comprehensive guide for …

Cooling slush + sodium citrate: core-temp strategy for hot starts

Introduction: Sports performance and physical activities often demand quick and efficient ways to cool down the body’s core temperature, especially in hot environments. One emerging strategy that has gained attention is the combination of cooling slush with sodium citrate. This innovative approach aims to rapidly lower core temperature and enhance physical performance, particularly during hot …

Glycerol loading with minimal bloat: exact fluid-per-kg tables

Introduction: Glycerol loading is a common practice among athletes and bodybuilders to enhance performance and increase muscle fullness. However, one common issue associated with glycerol loading is bloating, which can be uncomfortable and counterproductive. In this article, we will discuss how to achieve glycerol loading with minimal bloat by using specific fluid-per-kg tables. Understanding Glycerol …

Cocoa flavanols + beet nitrates: stacking rules for pump days

When it comes to maximizing performance on pump days, combining cocoa flavanols and beet nitrates can be a game-changer. Both of these compounds have been shown to improve blood flow, increase oxygen delivery to muscles, and enhance exercise performance. By understanding the stacking rules for these two powerful ingredients, you can take your workouts to …

Nitrate-rich smoothies that aren’t beet: rocket + celery + citrus combos

Nitrate-rich smoothies are a popular choice for health-conscious individuals looking to boost their nitric oxide levels. While beets are commonly used in nitrate-rich smoothie recipes, there are other delicious and nutritious options to explore, such as rocket, celery, and citrus combinations. These ingredients not only provide a rich source of nitrates but also offer a …