Boundless Life

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. June 27, 2012 – free audio podcast: When To Take Sleep Pills, Pain Meds and Fat Loss Boosters Also: fueling a long ride on a high fat diet, how to recover from and prepare for a race simultaneously, does eating low-carb raise your cholesterol, the skin-diet-hormone-exercise connection, menstruating on race day, taking a sleep aid the night before a race, Yohimbe for fat loss, how to incorporate burpees, the best way to decrease muscle, the different types of fatigue, and the hormonal effects of prescription pain medications. 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 [email protected]. 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+. How Chinese food makes you fat. If you like skeletal muscle strength and cardiac function, try Resveratrol. Why fortifying food is ridiculous. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: The Future Of Health Now - Videos are Live, Free and Available! The BenGreenfieldFitness Inner Circle - is now $10! Join now at www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle We now have reduced shipping rates to Canada - for LivingFuel supplements. Check out pacificfit.net/nutritional-supplements for Cocochia Snack Mix, Supergreens, and more! ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from Chuck: When you follow a high fat diet and go for a really long bike ride (3 to 6 hours) what do you use to fuel during these rides? Audio Question from Chris: Recently complete an Olympic Triathlon and is signed up for another one 4 weeks later (now 3 weeks away). He had a good rest week and feels like he will be ready but would like some suggestions for training and tapering. ~ In my response, I mention the article "How To Bounce Back From Ironman With Lightning Speed". Osa asks: Is the Low-Carb diet actually bad for you in the longterm? I am just concerned because there is a new study spreading around the web that says that low-carb diets significantly raise the risk of heart disease. What do you think about the article Atkins diet 'raises risk of heart disease' because of a surge in cholesterol levels? ~ In my response to Osa, I mention the Superhuman Food Pyramid. Frances says: I have been suffering from adult acne since I got pregnant with my 1 year old. I take a good probiotic, fish oil and eat what I consider to be a very healthy --whole food-- diet. I have celiac disease and adhere to a gluten free diet. I have also eliminated dairy, but to no avail. I am currently training for a 1/2 marathon and about to be in training for the NYC full marathon and wonder what kind of hormonal changes occur as a result of endurance training. As someone who prides myself on a healthy lifestyle it pains me to have acne as it seems like it must be something I am doing wrong! Have you seen any studies on the skin-diet-hormone connection? ~ In my response to Frances, I mention another podcast we did on Acne. Rebecca says: I've been a distance swimmer for years, and a distance runner for almost a year, and from these experiences, I know that when I have PMS / the first few days of my period, I'm just wiped out and achy. Sadly the race falls on what should be the first day of my period. I can't alter this using birth control, so I just have to race through it. Any advice to make it more comfortable? ~ In my response to Rebecca, I mention making sure to control estrogen levels, and this podcast we did on estrogen dominance. John asks: Ambien/Zolpidem: what's your take on the benefits of 7-8 hours of solid sleep before a 100 miler (or any other early morning 5+ hour event) if it means popping a pill? My alternative is 3ish hours of sleep and a very painful morning. I've tried it both ways: last year I ran a 100 mile PR after a great night of "aided" sleep, while the year before - sans drugs - I struggled to stay awake through the hours leading up to the second sunrise. Do you have any other tricks or tips for ensuring a good night's sleep and conquering pre-race jitters? I've read that the amount of sleep the night before race morning is less important than the preceding days'. Is Ambien either banned or dangerous? ~ In my response to John, I reference my sleep recommendations. I also recommend www.darksideofsleepingpills.com Keerthi asks: I've heard contradicting things about

We've been lied to by the sports drink industry, including "reputable" companies like Gatorade. And people are dying because of it, especially during endurance events like marathons and triathlons. So what can you do about it? You're about to find out. Dr. Timothy Noakes, who I first interviewed in the podcast "The Death of Gatorade [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, I know the picture above looks extremely geeky and slightly intimidating, but what if you could replicate the effects of a 2 hour hard bike ride with about 20 minutes of training? Using technology designed to help NASA astronauts get fitter faster upon their return from space missions, a company called Vasper Technologies has [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you haven't heard, Lance Armstrong was recently accused of doping. But as I mentioned in the article "Ben Greenfield Admits To Using Performance Enhancing Drugs", there are safe and natural strategies that go above and beyond banned practices such as doping when you want to improve performance. For example, the topic of cold thermogenesis [...] 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. June 13, 2012 – free audio podcast: Does Intermittent Fasting Work For Fat Loss? Also: how to sit correctly, starting a diabetic fitness regime later in life, triggering that "fight or flight" reaction, tips on yogurt making, clenched toes while running, getting accurate "calories burnt" data, stress tests for health vs fitness, omega fats and acne, the "right" diet, and can D-Aspartic Acid enhance testosterone. 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 [email protected]. 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+. Did you know that whey protein can spike your blood sugar higher than white bread? This study highlights fact that our body is probably designed to be prone to disease if we aren't overnight fasting. Good reason to leave the .mp3 player out of your outdoor workout sometimes. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Future Of Health Now videos - now available at: Google+ The BenGreenfieldFitness Inner Circle - is now just 10 bucks a month! Get access now: www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle 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. Share a room and stay for half price! Ben will be racing Japan 70.3 - If you're in Nagoya, come say hi, and be sure to follow Ben on Twitter. SuperhumanCoach.com is up and running - and in our next seminar, we'll be teaching advanced fat loss concepts www.superhumancoach.com 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from a truck driver: He spends 90% of his day in a seated position without the option to stand up and move around. He wants to know - what is the proper way to remain in a seated position? Knees higher or lower than your hips, use lumbar support or not, arm rests or no, feat square on the floor or on an angle... or on the dashboard? Also are there exercises that he can do in the seat while he drives? ~ In my response, I reference this article about ways to exercise at work. Kumar asks: My dad is 55 years old and is diabetic for last 15 years. He is on insulin injections for last 4 years or so and follows a pretty healthy vegetarian diet (not so much protein in his diet) and does fast walking, very light yoga for exercise. I want him to start taking supplements like Omega3, whey protein and start strength training. After listening to your podcast on Zen of aging I now realize its possible to put on muscle and get fit at any age. Do you have any recommendations on how he could start his fitness regimen at this age and given his diabetic condition. He is decently healthy at 160 lbs, does not drink or smoke and does not have too much of body fat. ~ In my response to Kumar, I reference "How to Stay Fit As You Age" and a low carb, ketogenic diet to treat diabetes. Martin asks: I am a 50 year old male who competes in judo competitions. My fitness and conditioning are good, however I am quite a calm person by nature and have noticed as I get older I am just calmer. My mind and body knows when entering a competition that although I can get hurt that my life is not in danger, so I don't get much of an adrenaline surge. However all my opponents seem to be in a massive "fight or flight" moment. So, in the initial standing component when speed and explosive strength are paramount I am at a disadvantage. If I can survive this first couple of minutes, after which their adrenaline dumps subsides, I do well. So, aside from jumping out in front of a car before a competition how can I induce more of a "fight or flight" response? Preferably "fight" not "flight". ~ Sex before competition is probably beneficial, in both males and females and Ben Admits to Using Performance Enhancing Drugs. Teash wrote: I've recently acquired a taste for natural yoghurt and I am going through at least a tub a week. My Mum has a Easiyo Yoghurt Maker and I am very interested in making the yoghurt myself too. I was just wondering what you thought of these yoghurt makers and if the powder packs us

My wife makes fun of me. She calls me a "sleep princess". This is probably because I've been really geeking out on how to sleep better. After all, it's during sleep that we experience a significant amount of repair, recovery, immune system enhancement, cognition, learning and memory capability, gene regulation, appetite regulation, hormone production and cellular turnover. And that means lack of sleep can leave you sore, unsexy and stupid. So I've been prioritizing sleep (and especially deep sleep) quite a bit. For example, before bed, I typically consume about 400-500mg Natural Calm magnesium - and if it's been a tough workout day, I also throw in a serving or two of MillenniumSports Somnidren GH. At this point in the night, I've also been ensuring I don't shut down melatonin release from artificial light exposure by wearing blue light blocking Gunnar glasses for any afternoon or early evening computer use, and when I actually do get into bed, I slip into my Dream Essentials contoured face mask and fitted ear plugs. Next, I turn on the White Noise app on my iPhone to block out the sound of the train that goes by our house and the dogs barking in the morning (although I use the PZizz iPhone app for quick afternoon naps). Finally, underneath the mattress is a new toy I've been using - a Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) device for enhancing deep sleep cycles – the EarthPulse Sleep Machine. How exactly does PEMF work to get me to sleep better? If you read my recent article about brain waves, and how you can use sound and music to change your brain waves, you learned about a specific brain wave frequency called "Delta". Here's the graphic from that post, in case you need a reminder: The human brain, and the brain waves described above, are very sensitive to the Earth’s magnetic fields, which is one of the reasons that trends toward a decrease in sleep duration and suppression of the deepest stages of sleep have been observed in space shuttle missions. Electroencephalograph measurements (EEG) have shown that small, low strength magnetic fields can cause brain wave frequencies to resonate with the frequencies of the magnetic field, and can cause other responses in the brain including: -vascular dilation of brain blood vessels -enhanced melatonin release -electrical stimulation of the hypothalamus for sleep facilitation -reestablishment of circadian rhythms (useful for jet lag, which is why this video includes me packing the EarthPulse for international travel) -enhanced dream recall (and incidentally, what I have personally found, much more lucid dreams) In today's audio interview with Paul Becker, who is the inventor of the EarthPulse, you not only learn more about how a magnetic field device enhances Delta brain wave production, but also learn how this thing can actually help with cellular respiration, and recovery from workouts. [powerpress] Paul doesn't mention this during the interview, but from the studying that I've been doing, I've learned that a very important part of using PEMF to sleep better is regular use, since this is literally a form of brain entrainment. Here are some of the resources that Paul references during our discussion - and I'll also include a comment below this post that throws more references in for you geeks out there. -Chronic stimulation of rat skeletal muscle induces coordinate increases in mitochondrial and nuclear mRNAs of cytochrome-c-oxidase subunits: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2537205 Abstract Fast-twitch tibialis anterior muscle of the rat was subjected to chronic low-frequency (10 Hz, 10 h daily) nerve stimulation in order to investigate the time course of changes in cytochrome-c-oxidase activity, as well as in tissue levels of specific mitochondrially and nuclear-encoded, cytochrome-c-oxidase-subunit mRNAs. Chronic stimulation induced a progressive increase in cytochrome-c-oxidase activity which was threefold elevated after 35 days. A similar increase was recorded for citrate-synthase activity. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, which was studied as a glycolytic reference enzyme, moderately decreased, as did the tissue level of its corresponding mRNA. There was a parallel increase in the tissue levels of the two cytochrome-c-oxidase-subunit mRNAs over the entire stimulation time course. The extent of increase (stimulated/control) was 2.4 +/- 0.3 and 1.8 +/- 0.2 (means +/- SEM) for the mitochondrial and nuclear subunit mRNAs, respectively. This parallel increase suggested a coordinate regulation of the two subunits. The increase in cytochrome-c-oxidase activity initially corresponded to the changes at the mRNA level. However, with longer stimulation times (beyond 14 days), the increase in cytochrome-c-oxidase activity clearly exceeded that of the two mRNAs. This divergence was progressive and was interpreted to indicate that the increase in cytochrome-c-oxidase content was brought about not only by changes in the levels of the specific mRNAs, but al

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. June 6, 2012 – free audio podcast: How To Eat Healthy On A Shoestring Budget Also: what to eat after a gastrectomy, dealing with iron overload, fasted workouts and glycogen storage, different types of olive oil, treating jock itch naturally, visualizing exercise while injured, improving running efficiency using powercranks, how diet can effect mental health, refueling timing, and more discussion about cramping. 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 [email protected]. 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+. Want to shut down muscle growth? Take ibuprofen. Want to boost Growth Hormone & Testosterone with weight training? 10 reps better than 5 reps. Sorry airplane magazine ad, but taking growth hormone does not increase power, strength or endurance. After you workout, increase in testosterone is 1.25-2x, for 30-60 minutes. Good reason to do 100 pushups before a hot date, guys. ;) ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Ben will be racing Japan 70.3 - If you're in Nagoya, come say hi, and be sure to follow Ben on Twitter. SuperhumanCoach.com is up and running - and in our next seminar, we'll be teaching advanced fat loss concepts 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 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: As compiled and read by Brock, the Ben Greenfield Fitness Podcast "sidekick". Audio Question from anonymous: His mother, in her late 60s, had an unfortunate surgery and ended up with a pacemaker and her stomach removed (gastrectomy). She eats very little and gets nauseous easily. Do you have any ideas of what she could try eating that would not make her nauseous and would be easy to digest. Audio Question from Nancy: She is taking Living Fuel SuperGreens, Soleil, Himalayan Crystal Salt and has Iron Overload in her body but she doesn't have Hemochromatosis. She is supposed to stay away from Iron (which is included in SuperGreens) but she wants the detoxification properties. Is she doing something right or wrong? ~ In my response to Nancy, I recommend Capragreens or Enerprime as an alternative. Graeme wrote: Just catching up on some old episodes and listened to Episode 175 and the interview with the Hammer Nutrition ultra cyclist, Steve Born. Q1 - I'm hearing a seeming contradiction where you have talked regularly about fasting overnight and doing a morning session to promote fat burning based on a low glycogen state. In the interview he said that waking up you still have your muscle glycogen full and you are almost ready to race. (and, if racing, you only need 100-300 cals, which sounds very different to my belief that we are in a low glycogen state). Do I understand correctly? Q2 - he says on a long event you can get 2/3 of energy from fat. My understanding was that 20-40% is as high as you can expect, is this simply because the intensity is super low for ultra endurance? Jim asks: Just wanted to know if you have any info on light olive oil vs extra virgin olive oil. I used to use the extra virgin but start to get nauseous so I been using light olive oil on my salads but did not know if this stuff was healthy. Anonymous asks: I'm an ultrarunner trying to get rid of a nasty case of jock itch. I tried the toxic over-the-counter products, but it won't go away. Before I make a doctor's appointment, I want to see if you have any alternative ideas to deal with this. Because of my ultra running, I spend several hours in sweaty under armour - on a race day I may be in the same compression shorts for 24+ hours. I purchased Oil of Oregano from your site. I slathered it on last night and it burned like hell! It was like fire. Can you talk about J.I., how to use Oil of Oregano to treat it, and any other recommendations to get rid of it? Is it contagious to my girlfriend? ~ More info on oregano: Mysterious “Product X” Destroys Microbes, Blowtorches Body Fat, Fights Fatigue, and Powers Performance. Jenny asks: Is there any research that shows whether or not visualizing exercise

I personally swim 3-4 times per week.The pool I swim in is chlorinated. I also shower every day, in water that has been chlorinated by the city of Spokane, where I live. How about you? How much chlorine are you exposed to? If you’re a swimmer or triathlete, then it’s probably quite a bit. If [...] 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. 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 [email protected]. 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

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 [email protected]. 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 resp

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 [email protected]. 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, a

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 [email protected]. 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 p

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 [email protected]. 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

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 11, 2012 free audio podcast: Do Belly Fat Loss Supplements Really Work? Also: does being on your feet all day count as a warm-up, anti-inflammatory foods instead or prednisone, fuelling recommendations for a multi-day hike, do hormones and exercise create acne, the benefits of fasted exercise sessions, are carbs really killing you, adapting to a low carb diet, is popcorn a superfood, and do vitamins raise your chances of death? 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 [email protected]. 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+. This is why I always try to exercise as soon as possible after I fly somewhere, even if I'm tired. How I'm building my kid's brains now. Burdock root for boosting testosterone may actually be pretty good stuff, but I'd need to see this in humans. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 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: Audio Question from Craig: Craig wants to know if he needs to warmup before a run even if he has been on his feet all day. He also wants to know if there is something better/safer than steroids to take for erythema nodosum. ~ In my response to Craig, I recommend the dynamic stretching routine. I also mention the GAPS diet book. Audio Question from Tony: This summer Tony is going after an unsupported speed record on a long trail (272 miles). He is looking for light/portable food recommendations and also an approximate amount of calories he will need for 40 miles per day over 6+ days. He is 5'6" 135lbs. ~ In my response to Tony, I mentioned LivingFuel SuperGreens, CapraCleanse and Tian Chi. Audio Question from Frances: Frances wants to know if there is a connection between hormones, acne and exercise. Amy asks: Can you comment on this study regarding fasted exercise and weight loss: "Exercising fasting or fed to enhance fat loss? Influence of food intake on respiratory ratio and excess postexercise oxygen consumption after a bout of endurance training." Keely wrote: Ben recently posted a link entitled "carbs are killing you". This was pretty interesting and I am curious if you know where any of the information on this handout is coming from. The archive information only gives information about the website design. Is there any scientific evidence behind this, especially steps 1-8? Here is a copy of that link to make things easier. Maria asks: I recently purchased your Low Carbohydrate Diet for Triathletes book and I have a question about transitioning my diet. I'm a Crossfitter with a history of blood sugar crashes and bonking, so I'm quite apprehensive about doing a WOD during the first couple weeks of the diet. Do you recommend cutting my carbs gradually, going low intensity on my workouts for a couple of weeks while my body adapts, or just going all out and seeing what happens? Bruce asks: Hey Ben and Brock, what do you guys make of this article about popcorn having "more of the healthful antioxidant substances called polyphenols than fruits and vegetables"? Ralph asks: Mayo Clinic Health Letter, 3/2012, Risk of vitamin supplements: ...analysis of latest research, the Iowa Women's Health Study (38,000 women 55 & older for 20 yrs), "...indicated that the risk of premature dea

Last week, at Ironman 70.3 Galveston, Lance Armstrong decimated the field on the bike, but then slipped to a disappointing seventh place finish due to hydration and nutrition problems during the run. So why does a guy like Lance Armstrong have gastrointestinal issues during a triathlon? And what should you be eating during a triathlon? [...] 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 4, 2012 free audio podcast: Should You Eat Carbs or Protein Before Bed? Also: being predisposed to heat stroke, shot-gun vitamins and high dose antioxidants, good swim technique videos, being ketogenic all the time, tendonitis explained, why one muscle can be bigger than the one on the other side, and how to blast away belly fat. 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 [email protected]. 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+. Interesting study & suggests if you're taking an iron supplement do NOT take it in a 6 hour window around any workout. Even if you're exercising for 5 hours per week, a seated desk job still raises your risk of death. So stand more. It turns out those little unstable air pillows that you can stand on at the gym actually could be *bad* for performance. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: May 11 & 12, 9am to 5pm - Ben Greenfield is presenting the "Become Superhuman" workshop in Dubai. Get more details. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here, on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" ... now you get 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: Audio Question from Kelsey: What is best to eat before bed? Garret Webber-Gale's nutritionist says carbs instead of protein or it will all turn to fat... is that true? Audio Question from Patrick: Wondering about heat susceptibility. If he can't take an icebath, he gets crazy headaches 24 hours after a hot/hard workout. ~ In my response to Patrick, I recommend CapraColostrum. Audio Question from Mike: Wants your opinion of the "Longevity" and "Six for Men" supplements. Audio Question from Jared: Wants some recommendations for videos he can watch to help his swimming technique as he prepares for a triathlon. ~ In my response to Jared, I recommend Swim Smooth, and especially the DVD's. Bob asks: If I train myself to be ketogenic, is that purely for health and fat burning? What about racing? Do I still eat the gels, etc. before/during a race? Or is that counter-productive? Stephanie asks: I need some advice on how to manage my tendonitis in my foot once and for all. In fall 2010, I completed my first marathon. During the end of my training, I started to develop pain on the inside of my left foot. I pushed my way through the race but was left limping for a week. The pain subsided enough to allow me to start running in April 2011. However, by August, I had to cease running due to extreme pain on the outside of my foot. An MRI determined that I had tendinitis and I spent 3 months in Physical Therapy. My foot has gotten better but it is still not 100%. What do you suggest in terms of stretching, foam rolling, etc., to enable me to slowly begin a running program again? I would like to try a marathon in fall 2012. Rob asks: I lift a lot of weights for strength training. I notice one peck is significantly larger than the other. When I train I use dumbbells so I can't overcompensate with a stronger side. I'm right handed, and my right peck is smaller. Why does something like this typically occur? Could it be related to one side being dominant and used throughout the day? What would be the way to fix this? Lee asks: I have currently noticed that my left bicep is longer/larger than my right bicep. I am right handed and have always consciously made an effort to work both arms the same amount. Do opposite biceps normally grow at the same rate? My concern now is how to get the right bicep to 'catch up' to the left one. Gerald wrote: I wanted to get your thoughts on the best way to loose fat that accumulates between my

If you want to know how to stay fit as you age, today’s double interview release is a must-listen. The first interview is with Cary Nosler. Cary (pictured right) is 65 years old and has been a fitness enthusiast for the past 50 years. He is a wealth of knowledge about how to stay fit [...] 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 Mar 28, 2012 free audio podcast: What Blood Tests To Ask Your Doctor For When You Go In For Your Physical. Also: what is oil pulling, the run/walk protocol, improving tendon and ligament strength, enhancing mobility for olympic lifting, recovering from hamstring tears, a ketogenic diet for killing cancer cells, compex sport elite for building strength, choosing types of flour, hashimotos and nightshades, and c1/c2 vertebrae misalignment. 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 [email protected]. 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+. I agree with all of these 10 stubborn exercise myths. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here, on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" ... now you get 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: Audio question from Matt: Wants to know what he should ask his doctor about at his annual physical. ~ In my response to Matt, I reference: www.directlabs.com, www.cyrexlabs.com, bioletics.com, and pacificfit.net Audio question from Dave: Curious about Oil Pulling. Audio question from Jenn: Is returning to running after injury and wondering about using a very frequent but short walk/run technique. ~ In my response to Jenn, I mention Jeff Galloway's walk/run ratios. Audio question from Jared: How to improve tendon and ligament strength and durability. ~ In my response to Jared, I recommend Capraflex. Audio question from Bob: Looking for recommendations for mobility exercises to help with Olympic Lifting. ~ In my response to Bob I reference these two videos: Audio question from Chuck: Help with recovering from a hamstring tear. Also can a ketogenic diet starve out cancer cells? Audio question from John: Wants some ideas for Compex Sport Elite protocols. Kyoko asks: Can I select whatever type of flour I like? Or, is there any important things I should look at? Pam asks: I just got done listening to episode 180 when you mention that people with Hashimotos should avoid nightshades. I am 37, and was diagnosed with Hahsi's at 16. I feel pretty good for the most part. I maintain an active lifestyle, and have good energy in all that I do. I treat my Hashi's with synthroid (.150mcg) and monitor the condition pretty much through blood work. I have a couple questions regarding nightshade food. 1) What exactly are the reasons they should be avoided? 2) How do I know if they are having a negative effect on me? 3) Should they be avoided if there is no noticeable effect? ~ In my response, I recommend the book: Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms When My Lab Tests Are Normal? Edgar asks:There was a day, basically out of boredom, where I decided to go as hard as I could for as long as I could. I don't remember how long this was, perhaps 20-30 minutes at a full out, gut-busting pace until I all but collapsed on the floor, dizzy and on the verge of throwing up. During the run, however, lets say 3/4 of the way through, I literally felt a "pop" in my brain (or somewhere...) not imagined; and though it was many years ago, I remember the feeling/sensation clearly. It was definitely some physical feeling that at age 15 I was essentially too dumb to worry about. After the run was finished, I was dizzy for a while, then I went home and the rest of the day as normal. Here's the unusual part: that weekend, when I went for my normal group run with my team, I was all of a sudden much fitter than anyone else. And, at what I now considered an effortless pace, was destroying all my teammates. I have tried since then to replicate this feeli

Ever wondered how to test and fix your body’s biochemistry? You’re going to learn how, and learn 8 ways to get your body operating like a finely tuned engine in today’s episode with Dr. Ryan Bentley. Dr. Bentley has been described as one of the brightest young leaders in the field of nutritional medicine. A true [...] 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 Mar 21, 2012 free audio podcast: Does Cold Thermogenesis Work For Fat Loss? Also: metabolic typing and blood type diets, ultra-running advice, ways to recover from surgery, how to mentally deal with accidents, how to train for tough mudder, strategies to become a faster runner, all about D-aspartic acid and aromatase inhibitors, and fueling for a 17 hour Ironman. 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 [email protected]. 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Ironman Coeur D' Alene Workshop – 12 Weeks To Race Day - This is a free workshop coming up March 24 at 6PM in Coeur D' Alene, ID, at Pilgrim's Market on 4th st. Join triathlon coach and Ironman athlete Ben Greenfield, from BenGreenfieldFitness.com, as he teaches you exactly which workouts to do, which foods to eat, and how to prepare in the final 12 weeks leading into Ironman CDA. Whether you plan on competing this year or next, or even if you're doing a different Ironman than Coeur D' Alene, you'll learn valuable tips and tricks for ensuring you're 100% confident on Ironman race morning. There will be ample time for Q&A if you have specific questions to ask Ben. 50% Discount on Triathlon Coaching - You heard him interviewed here, on "Why Running Drills Are Bad For You" ... now you get 50% discount on your first month of coaching with Graeme Turner. Just use code "COACHGRAEME" at http://ow.ly/9IIeY TrainingPeaks has posted - a free replay of Ben's "Eating For Endurance" webinar. 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 ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get these and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. It would be interesting to see if hypoxic swimming has a similar effect on boosting your hormone levels. Sure…if you're running 3 times a week recovery is overrated. But I've never met Ironman triathletes who don't benefit from ice, antioxidants, etc. How long does it take to recover after a marathon? ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Tom asks: I've been hearing a lot out of Jack Kruse, a neurosurgeon-gone-paleo, about cold thermogenesis for health and fat loss. I'd love to hear your take on cold thermogenesis for general health and/or fat loss, as well as its potential use as a training/recovery tool. ~ In my response to Tom, I mention this recent Get-Fit Guy article, and my previous interview with Ray Cronise. Melanie asks: I know you had an interview regarding metabolic typing, but I wanted to know how much stock you put in the details of these type of "diets". I am a protein type and I know that is right for me, but I did the metabolic typing from the Wolcott group website and received a specific list of foods to eat and ones to avoid. Some of the ones for me to avoid are ones that are in the "eat" category in your food pyramid. For example, I'm supposed to rarely have yogurt, cabbage, berries, and completely avoid whey and broccoli. What is your opinion of the Wolcott metabolic type diet? Should I consider cross-referencing your diet and my metabolic type list and eat only what is a match? Also, along the same vein, can you quickly sum up your opinion on the Blood Type Diet? I'm a protein type on that one too, but again some of the foods you recommend would be a no for me on that one. ~ The movie Brock was thinking of is The Road To Wellville. Horacio asks: I'm about to run my first ultra running race in April, 84k Trail race in Patagonia. How fast should I run? I want to be fast but not bonk or have a cramp crisis. Last year I ran this same race but only the 42k version. I probably ran it near my anaerobic threshold or about 165-170 bpm... but for the 84k I plan to go much slower. This is my plan: I've been following Phil Mafftone's advice and I've trained mainly trying not to go over 180-age limit (that would be about 1

Dr. Fletcher, today’s interview guest, is a powerful force in chiropractic. Quietly he has become known as the leader in neural scan interpretation and wellness practice development. Today, thousands of doctors from Europe , Australia and North America listen to his communication strategies and use his coaching methods to transform their practices. And one of [...] 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 Mar 14, 2012 free audio podcast: How Liposuction Makes You Fat. Also: dealing with a chronic calf sprain, what is P.A.P training, can you create glycogen from fat and protein, are unsoaked nuts and seeds a problem, the Maffetone vs. the Triathlon Dominator heart rate zones, distances for long triathlon training sessions, and reasons for fat loss resistance. 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 [email protected]. 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 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 TrainingPeaks Webinar - March 15th @ 1:00pm MST / 3:00pm EST: "Eating For Endurance" with Ben Greenfield. In this webinar, sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield will teach about proper endurance nutrition for anyone preparing for a long distance event; trail runners, triathletes, adventure racers, cyclists, paddlers, and epic hikers. You’ll learn how to fuel before, during and after your event, and set yourself up for success by eating smart! Call out for Testimonials - Are you someone who was really out of shape (overweight, unable to climb stairs, experiencing shortness of breath, dangerously high blood pressure, etc…)? Did you train/rehab with Ben’s help and advice to go on to race a triathlon, marathon or ironman? If you are, email Ben a testimonial at [email protected] and you could be featured in his next book! Your business can get huge exposure - from sponsoring Ben's next book. You'll get tons of banner ads, podcast announcements, premium newsletter placements and more! Take a look at the full sponsor perks sheet. Coming this Friday - an interview with Dr. Fletcher about how something called neural communication can make or break your performance. ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get these and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. Carob is a great alternative to chocolate. Compared to chocolate it has higher calcium count (three times as much), no caffeine content, nor fat, and presents your taste buds with a different experience. It's also high in Iron, Vitamin B, Phosphorus, Magnesium, fiber and protein. Top injury sites for the long distance triathletes includes lower back (17.9%), Achilles tendons (14.3%), and knees (14.2%). Among the short to intermediate distance triathletes, most injuries occurred in the knees (44%), calf (20%), hamstrings (20%), and lower back (20%). A group of healthy, active individuals were instructed to cut back on their activity for 3 consecutive days. What they found was that their blood sugar levels spiked 26% more than it normally would have, and that the spikes increased slightly over each successive day. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Jennifer: Is liposuction an option or a last resort? Audio Question from Jake: 15 weeks out from Ironman with chronic calf strain. Eric asks: I've been hearing a lot about P.A.P. training and was hoping you could help define what it is and how it may help endurance athletes. Andrei asks: I keep hearing about how after an workout you have to eat to replenish the glycogen storage. Also, during a long training run or a race, you have to ingest carbs to top your glycogen storage. My question is if you can do this with fat or protein, not carbs. Can I just eat fat and protein after an workout to restore my glycogen levels? How about during the workout? Hosanna asks: To what degree does eating unsoaked nuts, seeds affect the bioavailability of nutrients? I was eating a dried fruit, nut and seed mix daily as a significant portion of my diet until I read to limit intake substantially on the paleodietlifestyle website. jeffyt01 wrote: I listened to your podcast with Phil Maffetone and was wondering what your thoughts are on his 180 formula vs how you lay out the heart rate training zones in your Dominator plan. Also, do you need to do more volume when using Maffetone's method? Jack asks: In training for different tri distances, what distances you would recommend for a long swim, long ride and a long run? Also, what sort of bricking do you recommend most? I am especially interested in the Olympic tri distance. Josh writes:I'm a cat 1 cyclist, really pushing myself this year to

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Mar 7, 2012 free audio podcast: Is Cortisol Good Or Bad? Also: how to raise testosterone levels while training, good reasons to jump rope, training for an uphill bike race, how to lose loose skin after weight loss, are gluten digestive enzymes helpful, numb toes, heel pain, and why your sweat smells different when weight training. 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 [email protected]. 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 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 TrainingPeaks Webinar - March 15th @ 1:00pm MST / 3:00pm EST: "Eating For Endurance" with Ben Greenfield. In this webinar, sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield will teach about proper endurance nutrition for anyone preparing for a long distance event; trail runners, triathletes, adventure racers, cyclists, paddlers, and epic hikers. You’ll learn how to fuel before, during and after your event, and set yourself up for success by eating smart! Call out for Testimonials - Are you someone who was really out of shape (overweight, unable to climb stairs, experiencing shortness of breath, dangerously high blood pressure, etc…)? Did you train/rehab with Ben’s help and advice to go on to race a triathlon, marathon or ironman? If you are, email Ben a testimonial at [email protected] and you could be featured in his next book! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get these and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. Very good evidence that if you're going to have a high carb meal, it should be breakfast. Potatoes are more satisfying to your appetite than bread. Want to recover from workouts faster? Eat 20g of protein before bed. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Martin: Asking about Cortisol levels. ~ In my response I recommend MAP for amino acids. At www.pacificfit.net, I recommend - Recoverease, Solar Synergy, TianChi. Anonymous wrote: My husband is a marathoner, and is training for his first full Ironman. I am supportive and interested in his athletic exploits as a shorter distance runner and a group exercise instructor myself. However, his training starts to take a toll when his athletic exploits start to interfere with our sexual exploits. During marathon training his sex drive takes a significant dip. During Ironman training it has been even more noticeable. I have read that endurance training can actually inhibit testosterone production. Is there a natural dietary way to boost testosterone while training? If not, is there a way he should alter his training and/or diet once he completes this event to "reset" his natural sex drive? He hasn't had his testosterone tested, he doesn't have ED, he's not totally exhausted from training, and our relationship is otherwise healthy and happy. We are in our mid twenties. ~ In my response, I reference this free video/pdf I produced, and www.Tri-Ripped.com. Also OptiMale and Vitrix (tribulus). Scott asks: How and why should I jump rope? What are the benefits and what's the best workout routine? What kind of rope should I use? How many calories are typically burned? I'm looking for an overview of rope work. Kate says: I am going to be entering a mountain bike race this spring in Sandpoint, Idaho. I have about 3 months to get fully prepared. Would you mind giving me your 2 cents on how I should go about training. Obviously, I have my own ideas, but I'd love to hear yours. The race is about 10 miles long, on pavement and mostly UPHILL!! Jesse asks: I recently lost 30lbs in 4 months in large part to your podcast, thank you. Now I have a new problem, excess skin where my gut used to be. Is there anything I can do to make this go away faster? ~ In my response I mention the Get Fit Guy episode: How To Tighten Loose Skin After Weight Loss Billy asked: I have been following a Paleo/Primal lifestyle for about 8 months. After having much digestion problems in the past, living life and training gluten free has been revolutionary. However, from time to time I do ingest gluten in the form of beer and soy sauce etc which is in some of my favourite Thai food dishes. Prior to ingesting gluten, I’ve been taking a Gluten Enzyme supplement by Now Foods (http://ww

If you read "12 Mental Performance Hacks: A Cheat Sheet For Boosting Your Brain Power", you may have noticed that suggestion #7 recommended that you take a compound called "Huperzine", and mentioned Chinese herbal mix "Tian Chi" as a source of club moss, since club moss contains natural levels of Huperzine. But that article just [...] 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 Feb 29, 2012 free audio podcast: The Effect Of Alcohol On Your Physical Performance. Also: quick and healthy celiac fuels, preparing for a "pump and run", is MCT oil better than coconut oil, HIIT vs. Cardio, tips on Patellofemoral Syndrome, Seitan protein, lowering high blood pressure, exercise induced asthma, nocturnal penile tumescence from increased testosterone, and is Curves better than a traditional gym. 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 [email protected]. 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 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 If you are a triathlon coach or personal trainer - e-mail Ben (ben@bengreenfieldfitness) your mailing address. He has something special to send to you. Ben mentions that he's been using "Coconut Manna" more, and he loves it. Grab some here! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: To get these and other news flashes fresh off the press every week, follow Ben on Twitter and Google+. You can lose 10% of your body weight during an endurance event and still do really, really well. One of the best articles I've ever read about overcoming cravings. Fruit is not fattening. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Joe: What are your thoughts on alcohol during the training/racing season? And Brenden asks: I love beer, yet clearly understand how bad it is for my athletic performance and sleep cycles. I try to only drink on the weekends, yet sometimes find myself drinking one or two during the week. What is a safe number per day? Zero? LOL. I guess my question is, will I lose workout and fitness gain by drinking 12oz everyday? You get the picture. What type of rules do you have for yourself? Audio Question from ???: Wants some suggestions of quick and healthy foods to consume after a 5k running race to stop him from feeling nauseous and faint. Audio Question from Andrea: Wants advice on fueling for a "pump and run" event. Audio Question from Chuck: Wants to know more about MCT Oil. Audio Question from Jean Luc: Is there an easy formula to translate training "Short and Fast" vs. "Long and Slow". Audio Question from John: Looking for some advice and exercises to do while healing from Patellofemoral Syndrome. ~ In my response to John, I mention Capraflex and also Rock Tape. Audio Question from Tim: What do you think of Seitan as a protein source for vegans? Audio Question from Tom: Vegan runner who eats well and takes CoQ10, Hawthorn (ect…) and still has high blood pressure. What else can he do? ~ In my response to Tom, I mention heart rate variability testing using the emWave. Audio Question from Clay: Wants some help with his exercise induced asthma (beyond his inhaler). Kyle asks: This is a totally serious question, I saw this mentioned in a discussion about over training. Is there any basis behind the theory of nocturnal penile tumescence being an indicator or not of testosterone level, and possible being over trained? Ian says:How effective are Curves Women's gyms from both a weight loss and fitness point of view? My wife's main goal is weight loss at the moment so she wants to know if she'd be better off hitting a gym with a pool, treadmill, bike, classes, etc and losing her Curves membership. 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 has had a very busy week (including a training stint at Giant's stadium for Team Timex) and there is no podcast this week! But we encourage you to go back and listen to "Episode #183: Are Your Hormones Out Of Whack?" and Ben's recent interview with John from UrbanVitality.com called "Why Fat Is Good". [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When I published the Superhuman Food Pyramid last week, I received many questions about why fat is at the base of the pyramid. In this audio, you'll learn about why fat is good during my interview with John from UrbanVitality.com. You instantly get my Superhuman Food Pyramid for free when you share on Twitter or [...] 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 Feb 15, 2012 free audio podcast: Are Your Hormones Out Of Whack? Also: which type of coconut milk is best, bike workouts in a hotel, choosing the best (elliptical) chain rings, which fats are the healthiest, is sugar free dark chocolate ok, controlling the urge to snack at work, stress incontinence in female runners, increased heart rate in heat and humidity, correcting an estrogen imbalance, and how much to workout while lowering cortisol levels. 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 [email protected]. 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! ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Call out for Testimonials - Are you someone who was really out of shape (overweight, unable to climb stairs, experiencing shortness of breath, dangerously high blood pressure, etc...)? Did you train/rehab with Ben's help and advice to go on to race a triathlon, marathon or ironman? If you are, email Ben a testimonial at [email protected] and you could be featured in his next book! Curious about what a stool/GI test involves? Ben announced that he recently did this GI Test. Check out his results & explanation of results. Ben Greenfield's Ultimate Weight Training Guide - now available in hard copy format. Follow Ben on Google+ - and get different info than you get from Facebook and/or Twitter. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at - The Inner Circle <-- get in now for a buck! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Time to chalk up yet another success for fish oil - maintaining strength as you age. Here's why that Snickers bar is so much more tempting and tasty when you're low on sleep. 150 minutes of exercise a week is probably NOT enough to prevent diabetes. In trained subjects, 2 minute rest periods have allowed for just as much strength development as 4 and 5 minute rest periods. I wish studies like this would look at more than just weight loss (i.e. blood glucose, triglycerides, HDL, etc.) ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Rick: What coconut milk brand or type should he buy? Can or carton? Also wondering about Rhabdomyolysis from intense workouts? Side effects? ~ In my response, I mention coconut cream concentrate. Audio Question from Craig: Traveling a lot between now and the first race of the season – how should he prepare in a hotel for the bike leg of the tri? ~ In my response, I mention Tabata sets, power intervals and long hard rides. Audio Question from Joe: A few questions about choosing the best elliptical chain rings. ~ In my response to Joe, I reference my comprehensive discussion in podcast 159. Bilal asks: Someone whose opinion I trust and value forwarded me your recommendations on the food pyramid. I am a bit puzzled by your recommendations for fat, especially items like ghee that are incredibly high in saturated fats. Olive oil makes a lot of sense as a clear alternative. Can you point me to some scientific studies on which your recommendations are based? I may have the complete wrong model in my mind and I'd like to be better educated on such nutritional issues. Alex asks: I found a sugar free dark chocolate in the supermarket today and I checked the ingredients, which sounded OK but not sure about a couple of them. It has "70% cocoa solids, 15% polydextrose (soluble dietary fiber), erythritol, soy lecithin (emulsifier), vanilla flavour and stevia". I know your opinion on soy lecithin from the recent protein powder podcast but I'm not sure about polydextrose and erythritol. My Google searches didn't show them as too bad. Are they? David wrote: I'm an active athlete and eat a paleo based diet; however, I work a pretty sedentary and sometimes a pretty boring job, and even though I eat "healthy" foods, when I'm at work I can't seem to stop eating. On my days off I eat minute amounts in comparison. Do you have any tips to help me control my eating while at work? ~ In my response to David, I mention the following resources: 5 ways to suppress your appetite without taking any special pills or capsules A simple six step system for eliminating food cravings 12 dietary supplements that can massively control your most intense carbohydrate cravings Episode 160 full transcript Lori asks: Can you talk about stress incontinence in women runners? What is your opinion about bladder sling procedures to 'fix' the problem. (Assuming it's a skilled surgeon.) ~ In my response, I mention bi

One of the most insightful and informative books that I read this month was "Vitamin K2 and the Calcium Paradox". It was written by Kate Rhéaume-Bleue, N.D. (pictured below) , a naturopathic physician and Canadian expert in natural medicine. Vitamin K2 was actually something I mentioned in "12 Mental Performance Hacks: A Cheat Sheet For Boosting [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this Feb 8, 2012 free audio podcast: What Does It Feel Like When You're Overtrained? Also: abnormally low heart rate during exercise, the benefits of holding a position (isometrics), transitioning to "barefoot" running, is calorie "banking" effective for bulking up, the best exercises for maintaining bone density, can you make up for lack of sleep with exercise, treating pre-event illness, exercise equipment for kids, how wheat effects your brain, and nutritional advice for cancer patients. 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 [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Update your Ben Greenfield Fitness App - to get the latest version for iPhone or Android, delete the app and reinstall it. Ben Greenfield's Ultimate Weight Training Guide - now available in hard copy format. The REV Diet - is the "eating protocol" that Brock is following right now. Follow Ben on Google+ - and get different info than you get from Facebook and/or Twitter. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at - The Inner Circle <-- get in now for a buck! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: I'm becoming more and more convinced that late night carbs aren't an issue IF you're controlling calories during the day. Good proof that you should get massages (or use a foam roller). Ride a bike hard for 45 minutes and you bump up your metabolic rate for 14 hours. If you're working out in fasted state, taking amino acids before can vastly improve results. (This is Ben's recommendation for Branched Chain Amino Acids: Recoverease and for Whole Amino Acids: MAP Master Amino Pattern) ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Stewart: Wondering why he can't get his heart rate to go high and if that is a problem. Audio Question from Pete: Wondering about dips and what the purpose of holding a position is. Dan asks: You recently mentioned that you tried and enjoyed Vibram's KSO Trek. I have been a fan of the Fivefinger lineup for a few years now and have done two off-road Tri's in my Treksports, as well as a trail 1/2 marathon in my KSO Trek's. I was wondering where you would draw the line in regards to usage and distance. Would you not recommend VFF's (Vibram FiveFinger's) or other minimalistic "foot-gloves" full time? Do you think mixing up VFF's with your typical "sneaker" is a good idea for training? I have learned that form is very important, but anytime I put a normal sneaker on now I feel like I am running on marshmallows and I am setting myself up for injury. ~ Here are the KSO Trek's I'm using right now. Brandon asks: What are your thoughts on calorie banking/cycling for a bulking regime? Is "banking" something to do in the future on rest days? What would happen if I took a few days (like 1 weekend) to "bank" calories without exercise? Will a metabolism slow down quickly enough to turn those calories into fat without the stimulation from weights/HIIT on a daily basis? (Meaning I should keep extra calories to exercise days). Would you recommend calorie cycling for bulking like you recommend for weight loss plateaus? Kathy asks: I'm a 42-year old female, and I enjoy endurance training. I started cycling a few years ago, and then got into triathlons. I did a few Olympic length races, and even managed to win my age group! But I decided to skip triathlon training this year, as I'd like more time for other personal goals. I'm focusing on cycling, but I like running and swimming, and some variety in the routine is fun. If I'm going to eliminate one, which should it be? My main fitness goal is to improve my cycling: the faster I ride, the more fun I have! And I'll be training for a Gran Fondo in the summer. My secondary goal is to lose a few pounds. Not only will this help my watts/kg (right now at about 3.3), but, as I've gotten older, it's more of a struggle just to maintain the same weight and not creep up. I lift weights once a week religiously, due to previous knee and shoulder injuries, and sometimes mix in some plyometrics. Swimming is very relaxing, and I like balancing the cycling with the upper body workout, but, as an older female, is running more important? I'm not sure if lifting once a week is enough to maintain bone density. Bret wrote: I was having a discussion with a group of my early morning (5am) workout buddies. If you have the choice, is it better to get a full night’s sleep or t

Do you work at or own a corporation? Do they have a corporate wellness program? If so, do you have any clue if it's run the correct way, or if it's just making you sick and fat? In truth, there are few investments you can make that provide you with a higher return than a [...] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this Feb 1, 2012 free audio podcast: Why Your Back Hurts. Also: a functional obstacle course, is hot yoga good, fuelling for a mid-day race, drinking only when thirsty, how to know when to end a work out, help for nerve damage, lifting with scoliosis, and training for wilderness first aid. 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 [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Check out this funny endurance video - in which Dave Erickson and I put a Timex Run Trainer through a torture test in a re-enactment of the John Cameron Swayze Timex commercial - "Takes A Lickin and Keeps On Tickin". The Ben Greenfield Superhuman Food Pyramid - now available for download! Follow Ben on Google+ - and get different info than you get from Facebook and/or Twitter. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at - The Inner Circle <-- get in now for a buck! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Here's a great image, if you've ever wondered how many carbs you need to eat to do really well at an endurance event. Starvation can cure type II diabetes. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Kumar: Wants to know how to solve his lower back pain. ~ In my response to Kumar, I mention www.runwithnopain.com Audio Question from Kent: Looking for ideas for an obstacle course based on real fitness principals. Audio Question from Megan: Wants an opinion on Bikram Yoga. ~ In my response, I link to this Huffington Post article on Yoga and Weight Loss. Audio Question from "Nooner": Looking for fueling advice for a 70.3 that starts at noon. Dan wrote: dr. noakes says to drink when you're thirsty. makes sense. no reason to drink more than your body needs from a hydration standpoint. but what about reducing the risk of rhabdo and acute renal failure in endurance events? i'm an ultrarunner training for the leadville 100 this summer and i'd hate to wind up in the hospital because i didn't drink enough during my race. i can see a benefit in this situation to drink beyond my basic hydration needs. ~ In my response I mention the article "Athletes: Obey Your Thirst". Angel says: How do I know If I am working out enough or to much? Most times, when the workout video ends (The Daily Burn - where I found Ben) or I finish what I am doing, even though I am trembling, I want to do more. Is the trembling saying that's enough? Aren't I suppose to go till failure? Often if I work out that a.m. I want to work out again p.m. But I hear things about over training etc. I don't know where the line is. Should I go till I am a puddle in the floor or stop when the video stops or the written sets are done? How do other people judge? ~ In my response to Angel, I talk about Rest Wise. Robert asks: 20 years ago, as a weightlifter, I herniated a disc and a pinched sciatic nerve resulted in severe leg nerve pain and foot drop. Surgery and PT got rid of the pain and most of the foot drop to the point where I can walk and run but not do too well moving my toes or lifting my foot against weights. Now as a triathlete, this limits me in two ways -- 1) in the affected leg my leg strength, particularly in the calf, ankle and foot, is weak. This affects balance and eg cycling power. 2) at higher speeds of running, my foot can’t keep up with my cadence and tires quickly. Beyond the normal strength training and PT exercises, do you think there is any way of stimulating nerve regeneration, which is the source of the problem. I realize this is the holy grail of addressing paralysis, and I am 20 years into this injury, but I was thinking that with all your research perhaps you have come across supplements or other promising techniques that help with nerve damage resulting in muscle weakness. ~ In my response to Robert, I recommend www.shopcompex.com and also my recent article about psychostimulants. Colin asks: When I was in my teens, I was diagnosed with moderate scoliosis in my lower back and had to wear a brace for a couple years. I'm now 31, and I haven't had any real issues since then despite keeping an active lifestyle that includes running, swimming, weightlifting, skiing, and tennis. The only time I feel discomfort is when I try to perform traditional "main lifts" that place stress on my lower back, like deadlifts and any weight-bearing squats. I don't want to hurt my back, but I also don't want to miss out on the benefits of these

Australian running drills expert and triathlon coach Graeme Turner was told by doctors that he should never run again because he had destroyed his knees playing sports. But he refused to listen, and instead used his knowledge of physics to train his body to run in a way that did not stress his joints. He [...] 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 Jan 25, 2012 free audio podcast: Does Fiber Help You Lose Fat? Also: is gum good for you, gluten free products and insulin spikes, glycemic index vs. glycemic load, dairy free probiotics, how much salt is enough, treating bone bruises, is donating blood actually beneficial for men, nipple fat, and is the African Mango really that great? 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 [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: The Ben Greenfield Superhuman Food Pyramid - now available for download! Follow Ben on Google+ - and get different info than you get from Facebook and/or Twitter. The GI stool test that Ben mentioned taking - from the comfort of his own home. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at - The Inner Circle <-- get in now for a buck! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Any pill that has same effect of exercise has to raise your eyebrow...shortcuts often dangerous. Reason not to worry if you're doing a triathlon and need to just "jump in the water and go" with no warmup. Running or bicycling just doesn't cut it when you get older ­ you need to work any muscles you plan on keeping. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Fibre1Girl: What do you think about Fibre One Cereal and/or other high sources of fibre. Audio Question from Ron: Does gum help with memory and muscle reactions. ~ In my response to Ron, I mention the Spry gum I chew every day. Andres asks: Your podcast about wheat was pretty amazing. I was shocked to hear about the ability of gluten free products to raise blood sugar the way they do. My question is when Dr William Davis spoke of wheat he mentioned that all forms of grain are inflammatory. Does this include those types of grains thought to be "healthier" like quinoa, millet, amaranth, etc... And, if so, what are healthier options to substitute with? Does coconut flour also cause the same physiological effect on the body as well? Steph wrote: I have a question about high glycemic index foods, are they the main cause of the obesity epidemic and all the disease around and should people be watching that more closely almost rather than their calories? Also if I were to limit my carbs how many grams would you say I need per day I am 22 years old 5"4 and 122 pounds and I am quite active! Kim asks: What amount of pro-biotics is optimal? I have a 'green food' mix that contains 200 mg of dairy free l.acidophilus, B.longum, L.Casei, Rhamnosus. My reason for asking is that I'm considering cutting dairy out of my diet (due to possible allergy) and want to make sure I don't miss out on these healthy pro-biotics! Scott writes: I'm in my 50's and tend to sweat an extreme amount and wonder if you recommend a salt supplement to add to my electrolytes. I generally use Heed but the sodium amount is minimal. I've heard unbleached or black salt mixed into a glass of water before a workout or event could help. How many mg's of salt per day is advisable. ~ In my response to Scott, I mention my podcast interview with Dr. Tim Noakes - and also talk about www.therightstuff-usa.com and Millennium Sport's "Athlytes" from www.millenniumsport.net. Jason says: After completing my first marathon, I noticed pain in top of my left foot. Upon review with a podiatrist, I was told I have a bone bruise in my Second Cuboid. I was given some cream to reduce swelling and was told not to run for 6 weeks. I was given the OK to ride a bike, use an elliptical and lift weights. 6 weeks have gone by and I still have a bump on the top of my foot but I have no pain in my foot. Any ideas on how to reduce or eliminate this bump? Any supplements that can aid in the healing of a bone bruise? ~ In my response, I mention episode #133 about pain on the top of the foot and I also discuss Capraflex and lactoferrin. Avi wrote: I had a question regarding men donating blood. Other than being a gracious thing to do for those in need, I've heard it's a good thing for men to donate blood every once in a while because of the build up of Iron in our blood. Is there any truth to this and would you recommend this from an overall blood and heart health. Johny wrote: I do not have man boobs. I have a proper chest shape and I'm working out heavily at the gym. I'm 21 and am slowly gaining muscle mass. My problem is that I have

If you're wondering how to choose protein powder, this article will help you, because I'm going to teach you about 4 protein powder mistakes you probably don't know you're making. Be sure to download and listen to this protein audio interview too. Let's start with a quick exercise: Take a look at the ingredients of the [...] 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 January 18, 2012 free audio episode: What Pharmaceutical Companies Don't Want You To Know About Statins. Plus: light therapy, what are super-carbs, how to cycle calories, milk for lactose intolerance, clear fluids before colonscopy, o-lifting, P90X and running, staying warm during a swim, and the effects of too much calcium. 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 [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Saturday, January 21 - 9am to 4pm - "Ben is speaking at the Total Transformation Health Expo" in Rose Creek, California! Go to http://tthealthexpo-eorg.eventbrite.com/ for more details. Tune is this Friday - Ben will be talking to the folks at Mt. Capra about their product DEEP2 30™. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at: www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle <--get in now for a buck! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Follow Ben on Twitter to get all the news flashes this week and every week! ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Craig: Asks about light therapy for more than just treatment of depression. ~ In my response to Craig, I mention these Gunnar glasses. Audio Question from Keith: Wants to know about "Super" Carbs (from an article in UltraRunning by Sunny Blende). ~ In my response, I mention this podcast episode on forefoot running with Danny Abshire. Matt asks: I run anywhere from 50 to 75 miles a week and weigh around 200lbs I would like to lose about 25lbs. what is the best way to do that while continuing my current training schedule? Is there a calorie deficit I should try to hit daily that will allow me to lose weight without sacrificing a lot of performance? Todd asks: I have been lactose intolerant all my life. I started triathlon recently and thought taking after-workout protein shakes would be a good idea. One problem, most seem to be dairy based. I get a massive headache and GI issues after drinking them. Same issues with fruit juice and now soy milk. Any ideas or suggestions for managing this and incorporating post recovery drinks into my routine? ~ In my response to Todd, I reference this podcast and also recommend probiotics, digestive enzymes, and the new DEEP30 protein or LivingProtein. Jeff asks: I am scheduled to have a colonoscopy and in part of preparation the colon must be cleared. So... the day before and the day of the procedure, I am allowed nothing but clear fluids. From a nutritional standpoint, are there specific fluids that would be of greater benefit to me? I am a hard training triathlete and nutritional effects on training are a concern to me. The procedure is on a Wed. I plan Monday to get a solid brick and moderate swim in and then do nothing Tuesday (start clear fluid diet), Wednesday (procedure) and Thursday. Any thoughts on type of fluid intake or preparation prior to and post procedure from a nutritional and exercise perspective. Bob asks: My question is on taking up O-lifting at the tender age of 45. Background: have a pretty demanding day job, so will be able to devote 2-3 sessions a week max to it. Am 6'4" tall & flexibility is a challenge. Am reasonably well versed in 3 of the 4 classic power lifts (Bench of 275 lbs. & good form; Standing Press of 140 lbs. & won't kill myself form; Deadlift of 370 & fair form; squat of only 235 lbs. with very shakey form when going to full depth). I would be very interested in both your general recommendations for making progress on both the snatch and clean & jerk, as well as your specific recommendations on the mobility work for O-lifting I should focus on for the necessary flexibility. ~ In my response to Bob, I recommend this video with Dan John. Al asks: I am a marathon runner and I am looking forward to trying your marathon dominator program in 2012. I am currently in my off season and I have been doing a combination of strength training using your 12 strength training routines for triathletes guide and doing cardio with mixing swimming, elipitical and bike interval routines. I just started P90X and I wanted to get your thoughts on the program and how it relates to my off-season running training. It does have a lot of volume with about 1 hour per day spent on focused training. ~ In my response to Al I mention www.marathondominator.com PowerFr0g asks: I've been swimming a lot in op

Are cell phones healthy? In this interview about how cell phone companies gamble with your brain, I interview Dr. Devra Davis, author of the book "Disconnect: The Truth About Cell Phone Radiation, What the Industry Has Done to Hide It, and How to Protect Your Family". What you'll hear may upset you, and if you [...] 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. 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... In this January 11, 2012 free audio episode: Why Sweet Potatoes Are Better Than Regular Potatoes. Also: personal trainer credentials, setting race goals, bike to run equivalencies, tennis as triathlon training, can muscle fibers change type, ketoacidosis, and adrenal fatigue. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Wednesday, January 11 - 6pm PST - Official, FREE Tri-Ripped Workshop with Ben Greenfield - sign up at ustream to attend. Thursday, January 11 - 11:59pm PST - The Tri-Ripped.com launch. Get it at www.tri-ripped.com Thursday, January 12th - 6-7pm Pacific: "Eating For Endurance": In this USAT webinar, sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield will speak about proper endurance nutrition for anyone preparing for a long distance event; trail runners, triathletes, adventure racers, cyclists, paddlers, and epic hikers. You’ll learn how to fuel before, during and after your event, and set yourself up for success by eating smart. Sign up to attend. Saturday, January 14 - 11am to noon - "Fat Loss & Fitness Open Forum" at Pilgrim's Wellness Institute in Coeur D' Alene, ID. Get more details at: www.pilgrimsmarket.com Saturday, January 21 - 9am to 4pm - "Total Transformation Health Expo" in Rose Creek, California! Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at: www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle <--get in now for a buck! Coming this Friday - "How Cell Phones Gamble With Your Brain: 7 Ways To Protect Yourself" - an interview with Devra Davis, author of Disconnect. ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: This is why I worked my left leg a ton when my right knee was injured last month. Here’s a good reason to work on your running form. Why VO2 max & lactate testing shouldn’t be used a sole means of testing or tracking performance. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio Question from Keith: How do yams stack up against regular potatoes as a fuel during a long run. Audio Question from Clienda: What credentials should she look for in a senior personal trainer. Audio Question from Shawn: Advice on setting race goals for the coming year. Audio Question from Matt: Is interested in how to swap a bike session for a running session (and vice versa). ~ Conversion factors for different cycling speeds: 10MPH=4.2, 15MPH=3.5, 20MPH=2.9, 25MPH=2.3, and 30MPH=1.9. Divide number of miles ridden by the conversion factor for your riding speed to tell you the equivalent miles of running at any speed. So for 20 miles on the bike at 10MPH, divide 20 miles by 4.2 and that results in the equivalent of 4.8 miles of running. This formula is for approximately 155 pounds. A larger cyclist would divide by a slightly higher number and a smaller cyclist, by a slightly lower number. Question from Jan: I heard you also play some mean tennis. I used to play competitive juniors and collegiate tennis before I injured my knee. That's when I discovered running (which was my favourite cross training activity back then) and then I eventually moved on to triathlons. I've been getting the itch to pick up my racket again and play a tournament that the company I work for is organizing. I'm a little hesitant to do that since I have already started training for the 2012 tri season. Although my first "A race" is in May (standard distance) and the tennis tournament is in March. What do you think? Are there any benefits that I will gain from playing tennis? Or maybe I'm risking my tri season too much? Carlos asks: Can you clarify something for me? When it comes to the muscle fibers we contain, can they actually change from one type to another OR do we just recruit one type more than the other based on the type of load? Peter asks: While home for the holidays both my Mom and Dad commented that my breath smelled like alcohol. However, I had not had anything to drink that day or several days prior. As part of our investigation I tested my blood sugar with my Grandpa’s machine and the results were normal. My Mom concluded that my body was producing keytones because I am not consuming enough carbohydrates. Having researched keytones online I realize this can be a serious issue. I work out frequently, 5-6 days per week. Recently I have been lifting and will be starting to train for a full triathlon taking place in April. Can y

Do you ever find your workouts to be stale, non-rewarding, boring, ho-hum, or anything else that is less than exciting? I may have a solution for you... ...ever hear of "gamification"? Basically, gamification involves giving game-like incentives to yourself (or someone else) to accomplish something – like using your phone to “check-in” to locations and [...] 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. 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 In this January 4, 2012 free audio episode: "How To Eat Fruit Without Getting Fat". Also: returning to running, the "thrifty" gene, short quads from cycling, healthy beans, phytoestrogen, crank lengths, is periodization dead, recovering from a 2 day relay, ancient wheats & grains, and advice for a beginner triathlete. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: New in 2012 - We've split up the podcast episodes into two separate sections: the Listener Q&A with Ben Greenfield and the Featured Topic with special guests! Ben's been using the Sufferfest cycling - pick up a copy by clicking here for the Sufferfest video downloads. Ben is now logging his daily diet & exercise sessions at: www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle <--get in now for a buck! Coming Saturday - "How Cell Phones Gamble With Your Brain: 7 Ways To Protect Yourself" - an interview with Devra Davis, author of Disconnect. "Eating For Endurance" - Thursday, January 12th, 6-7pm Pacific: In this USAT webinar, sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield will speak about proper endurance nutrition for anyone preparing for a long distance event; trail runners, triathletes, adventure racers, cyclists, paddlers, and epic hikers. You’ll learn how to fuel before, during and after your event, and set yourself up for success by eating smart. Sign up to attend. Tri-Ripped triathlon training program - Wednesday, January 11, at 6pm PST: Join Ben Greenfield to ask your questions about the program. Learn how to swim, bike and run lightning fast, and have the ultimate triathlon body! Mark your calendar and attend for free at www.ustream.tv/channel/ben-greenfield-fitness. Weight Training For Triathlon - a cutting-edge, step-by-step gym workout guide to developing swim, bike and run power and is now available on: Barnes & Noble Nook, Amazon Kindle and iTunes. ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Today's news flashes are a bunch of fun workout challenges Ben put together for New Year's... but you can do them anytime! #1: On December 31st: 100 Pushups or 100 Squats per hour from 8am to midnight #2: Celebrate 01/01/2012 by swimming 1 mile, running 1 mile and biking 20.12 miles. #3: Do this workout before you head out to your New Year's Party (allow 2 hours). #4: Cycle through each of these 10 minute workouts every hour or every two hours. #5: At 8am, do 8 burpees, 9am do 9 burpees, at 10am…you get the idea…and oh yeah, use military timing. What's a burpee? #6: Do 6 rounds of my "Body Weight Workout For Triathletes". #7: If #3 wasn't good enough, do this workout before you head out to your New Year's Party (allow 2 hours). #8: Swim 2012 meters as fast as you can. For added difficulty, do it with a bike tube around your ankles. #9: Take a cold shower on New Year's morning, then do this "Metabolic Body Weight Workout". #10: Do 2012 medicine ball slams by doing about 200 an hour on December 31. ALSO: Ben talked about some fancy toothpaste (powder actually) that he has been using. You can find it here: www.inneryu.com ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Katie says: I recently found your blog because I was researching information on Tim Ferris diet "4 Hour Body". My main interest is in his opinion on eating fruit. I saw that you mentioned it a few times in different articles (you said not to eat fruit in the mornings if you are trying to lose fat). I'm wondering what your entire take on fruit is? I feel like fruit could really be a food for me that's a tipping factor - meaning I eat it, eat too much of it, and it completely destroys my fat loss attempts. I would hate to completely cut it out, if that leads to a lack of nutrients that are impossible to gain from other foods. Tina Says: A year ago I joined a "learn to run clinic" and achieved the "10 minutes run with a 1 minute walk" but as the distance progressed I found my self getting injured om my foot and hip. I took time to rest and strengthen my IT band (as you had suggested in my previous question "Clicking in my hip"). So, I stopped running, and just did some cycling and strength training. Then, when I felt I was ready to run again (after about a month off running), I started from the beginning, 2s and 1s, and progressed to 7s and 1s, I did a 5k and that went well, but I hurt my foot hurt again. Th

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. 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... In this December 28, 2011 free audio episode: "The Shocking Truth About Wheat" with Dr. William Davis. Also: fibre and fat, ankle weights for cycling and running, the Ben Greenfield food pyramid, l-arginine for performance, juicing, shin pain, achilles tendinitis, joint pain, and simethicone. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Coming in 2012 - We'll be splitting up the podcast episodes into two separate sections: the Q&A with Ben Greenfield and the Featured Topic with special guests! Wednesday, January 11, at 6pm PST: Join Ben Greenfield to ask your questions about the Tri-Ripped triathlon training program - learn how to swim, bike and run lightning fast, and have the ultimate triathlon body! Mark your calendar and attend for free at www.ustream.tv/channel/ben-greenfield-fitness. Weight Training For Triathlon - a cutting-edge, step-by-step gym workout guide to developing swim, bike and run power and is now available on: Barnes & Noble Nook, Amazon Kindle and iTunes. The BenGreenfieldFitness gear and clothing store - is now LIVE! Click here to get triathlon uniforms, tech pants and coat, hats and more all emblazoned with Ben Greenfield's "Fire & Water" tattoo! Support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Brock's "goofy" marathon(s) by making a donation at bit.ly.goofybrock. ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Yes, even with minimal rest periods between sets, you can still build significant muscle. The more endurance training you do, the worse your resistance training results. Exercise helps you make bone cells instead of fat cells! Here’s a reason to get good sleep if you’re injured or after hard workout. If you’re used to eating breakfast, then not eating it can really mess up calorie consumption later in day. ----------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: The Shocking Truth About Wheat In this featured topic, Ben interviews Dr. William Davis author of Wheat Belly. Dr. Davis is a preventive cardiologist whose unique approach to diet allows him to advocate reversal and prevention of heart disease, and was also a guest on a podcast episode #60, "Why Do Healthy People Have Heart Attacks". During the interview, you'll learn: - Why you're not eating the same kind of wheat your ancestors ate... - Whether wheat bread is really better than white bread... - If wheat is ever OK to eat and if so, when... - Good substitutes and alternatives for wheat... - ...and much more! ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Raminta asks: How does fibre help with losing fat? Is fibre that has been pureed equally effective as it is in its original form? For example - pureeing vegetables for soup as opposed to raw vegetables, or blending fruit into shakes? Christian says: What are your thoughts on doing cycling and running drills with ankle weights on? Will this speed up skill acquisition and neuromuscular development? Chuck says: Interesting discussion about the food pyramid of Dr. Weil (Episode #174). Maybe you could discuss what the Ben Greenfield food pyramid would look like? Also, have you seen the Bulletproof diet guidelines from the www.bulletproofexec.com and what are your thoughts on it? Eric asks: What is your opinion of l-arginine as a supplement? Googling around for information on NO and supplements that might help Nitric Oxide production, I quickly found l-arginine, and specifically "ProArgi~9+". They make some pretty bold (and yet vague) claims about helping everything from heart disease to endurance performance. What a coincidence - if I can get a boost in performance and help with any potential heart disease down the road - sounds like a no-brainer. Do you know of any studies that focused specifically on the effects of l-arginine on performance? Back when I was lifting a lot of weights, we often took amino acid tablets that contained l-arginine (and two or three others), is there any benefit to something like ProArgi-9, versus regular amino supplements? I did talk with my doctor on l-arginine - he did not feel that there was any significant risk, and since there were some potential benefits. It would be fine to give it a try. ~ In my response I mention Citruvol and Nitroceps from Millennium Sports. Ron Starrett says: My wife and I just got a juicer after watching

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. 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... In this December 21, 2011 free audio episode: eating for a long workout with Steve Born from Hammer Nutrition. Plus: shipping live bacteria, alcohol vs. sleep, clenbuterol, how much protein is enough, carb to protein ratios, cramping, getting enough vegetarian fat, water and digestion, too much sleep, and back to back marathons? Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Weight Training For Triathlon - a cutting-edge, step-by-step gym workout guide to developing swim, bike and run power and is now available on: Barnes & Noble Nook, Amazon Kindle and iTunes. The BenGreenfieldFitness gear and clothing store - is now LIVE! Click here to get triathlon uniforms, tech pants and coat, hats and more all emblazoned with Ben Greenfield's "Fire & Water" tattoo! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: This study says nitric oxide is muscle-building, but didn't mention that the NO group had tons more protein too. Interesting. Maybe all the benefits of coffee are just from the withdrawal effect. Do you work in a hospital? Save time & take the stairs. Proven to be faster. ----------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: How Should You Eat Before, During and After Long Workouts? [caption id="attachment_6701" align="alignright" width="300"] Steve Born - Ultra Cycling Hall of Fame inductee[/caption] Steve Born, with a decade-plus of involvement in the sports nutrition industry, as well as nearly 15 years of independent research in nutritional fueling and supplementation, has unmatched familiarity with the myriad product choices available to athletes. Steve provides individual consultations to athletes of every level - beginner to professional - and in every discipline of endurance sports, helping them to achieve optimal performance in their training and racing. Steve says, "I derive just as much pleasure helping other people reach their goals as I do my own; it's the best part of the job." If you order from www.HammerNutrition.com - be sure to support the show AND get a 15% discount by using referral code "80244". As long as you enter the referral code in the section where you are asked “Where did you hear from us” then referral code 80244 will apply the 15% credit. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Audio question from Lisa: How do they keep bacteria alive in packaging and shipping? ~ In my response to Lisa, I mention the Beyond Organic products. Audio question from Mark: Booze + overheating = bad sleep. Audio question from McKay: Gaining muscle and losing fat, specifically using clenbuterol. ~ In my response to McKay, I mention Podcast #145 from BenGreenfieldFitness. A twofer about Protein from Dylan and Brad: Ben, How much protein should you ingest in one "sitting" for optimal uptake? (I know you've discussed protein intake quite a bit on the podcast, and I've tried to search through the posts on your website for an answer but so far haven't been able to run across it.) I've heard, like probably most people, that 30 grams is about all the body can process at one time, but my protein shakes are in the 50-60 gram range. I can't imagine that body just holds on to 30 and then pees out the other 30? But, if I am wasting money by drinking 60 gram shakes, I'd like to know! Dylan Hi Ben, After a recent visit to a sporting store to purchase protein powder, i was told by staff that i am a hard gainer and should consume a 70:30 ratio of carbs to protein. While this has allowed me to gain 4kg of weight in the last 2 weeks, i am unsure of whether this is the best option for a hard gainer to get muscle fast. My ultimate goal is to have a big chest, arms and abs. Could you please advise me on a good nutrition plan and gym routine for the standard hard gainer. Many thanks Brad G Question about cramping from Charles: Hey Ben & Brockstrap! I have a history of cramping in various types of races and distances (off-road triathlon, trail running, century ride, marathon), almost always my hamstrings. I usually drink roughly 500 ml of nuun/hr during my events as well as my nutrition (hammer gel or perpetuam usually). I carry endurolytes as a back up. I don't cramp in every instance tho. I was just curious if there was something I was missing, nutritionally or training wise to help remedy this. Thanks

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. 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... [caption id="attachment_6619" align="alignnone" width="357"] Hint: the best diet is not necessarily the one that includes bacon-flavored everything. In this December 14, 2011 free audio episode: which diet is the best diet, cardio and muscle loss, outdoor winter training, preparing grains, Dr. Weil's Pyramid, getting lean, antibiotics, training for a climbing expedition, what is super compensation, "cultured" vitamins, rapid weight fluctuations, good leg workouts, and electromagnetic radiation. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And 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! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ----------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: Lightning Fast Transition Secrets - On Thursday, December 15th, at 6pm Ben is teaching a USA Triathlon webinar, in which you’ll learn how to transition like a pro triathlete, even if you’re just getting started! You’ll learn tips and tricks to shave seconds and even minutes off your swim-to-bike and bike-to-run transition times. You’ll also have ample opportunity to ask your questions about faster transitions. Here’s the link to register for “Lightning Fast Transition Secrets”. Tuesday, December 20: Ben's 30th Birthday! Be sure to be following Ben on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bengreenfield) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/bgfitness) because he always gives away big gifts on his birthday to fans and followers, and the 30th should be no exception! Weight Training For Triathlon - a cutting-edge, step-by-step gym workout guide to developing swim, bike and run power and is now available on: Barnes & Noble Nook, Amazon Kindle and iTunes. The BenGreenfieldFitness gear and clothing store - is now LIVE! Click here to get triathlon uniforms, tech pants and coat, hats and more all emblazoned with Ben Greenfield's "Fire & Water" tattoo! ----------------------------------------------------- News Flashes: Want to get news flashes from Ben, right when they're fresh off the press? Follow Ben Greenfield on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/bengreenfield As I mention in my Fueling Myths book, glycemic index doesn’t matter before exercise. Good article about Running Rules You Should Break. It appears that even just a little intensity in your workout helps more than previously believed. So...maybe marathon doesn’t suppress immune system...just allergies? Before you take this as reason to begin “grazing”, notice that it is 3 meals & 2 snacks, not “6-10 a day”. ----------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&As: Audio Question from Patrick: Does long cardio really burn off muscle? In my response to Patrick, I mention these amino acids. ------------------------- Erling Tenvik asks: The winter is coming, and i was wondering if its bad to do hard outdoor training in cold temperatures (for the lungs). Last year in Oslo (Norway) it was -20 for a long period. I like the new structure of the podcast :) In my response to Erling, I reference this podcast with Ray Cronise and Tim Ferris. Brock also mentioned "wind proof undies". ------------------------- Andrei asks: Hi Ben, I heard you a few times talking about soaked and sprouted grains. So what is the proper way to do it? How do you sprout grains, quinoa, etc? Thank you! In my response to Andrei, I reference a multi-part video on soaking and sprouting that Jessa Greenfield presented inside the Ben Greenfield Fitness Inner Circle at www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle and also the cookbook Nourishing Traditions ------------------------- Ron asks: What do you think of Dr. Weil's food pyramid? ------------------------- David Asks: Ben, I’m a triathlete and focus on the 70.3 distance and moving to a full next season. I want to lean up, get stronger and be in a solid position for next season. I eat ok but there is a lot of room for improvement in my diet. Which would allow me to drop my body fat but still allow muscle mass growth over the off season and keep that muscle mass as I start racing next season. What diet would you recommend? Start with low carb diet and then convert over to Rev Diet (http://www.revdiet.com) ? Other suggestions? Keep up the Podcasts! Thanks David ------------------------- Questions from Jim and Dan about antibiotics: Jim asks: Ben, I know you recently went through having to use antibiotics for an infection. I have to take cipro soon for an intestinal infection. Heard it was nasty and you cant train because it affects your tendons and ligaments (especially your Achilles tendon) would you know how long I should wait before