On today's episode, we sit down with Mel Sulaver, a registered dietitian specializing in women's health and sports nutrition, to talk about all aspects of a woman's cycle — what does and doesn't show up, and what women should know about all the stages of their active lives. Mel dives deep into the topic of menstrual health for female athletes, and how understanding your cycle can enhance performance and overall wellbeing.

Key Takeaways

1. What constitutes a "normal" menstrual cycle beyond just having a period, and why it's essential to know your personal patterns
2. The critical role carbohydrates play in hormonal health for female athletes and why low-carb diets should be a no-go for active women
3. Practical nutrition strategies that Mel's seem work during different life stages, including postpartum — and how many extra calories breastfeeding really uses
4. The importance of individual responses to nutrition and training, moving away from one-size-fits-all protocols

Mel Sulaver is a registered dietitian and former collegiate athlete with a passion for women's health and nutrition. With her unique blend of clinical expertise and firsthand experience, she empowers female athletes to optimize their performance while maintaining their hormonal health.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue sharing valuable insights. Don't forget to follow Melanie at @Nutritionbymel on social media for more tips on women's health and performance.

Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://feisty.co/events/feisty-fest/

Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter:

https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/

Follow us on Instagram:

@feisty_womens_performance

Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts

Support our Partners:

Use code PERFORMANCE for 20% off at http://cozyearth.com

Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order

Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR

Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/