In this episode, guest Deborah Gertner, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist with over 14 years of experience in plant-based nutrition,  shares her journey to becoming a dietitian and offers insights into optimizing nutrition for endurance athletes. She also discusses her personal experiences with health challenges and how they shaped her approach to wellness and performance.

Connect with Deborah on Instagram and Facebook at @plantforwardendurancenutrition and on her website (https://www.plantforwardendurancenutrition.com/)

Studies & Resources:

Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) - Dr. Neal Barnard's Work

Dean Ornish's Studies on Reversing Chronic Diseases

Caldwell Esselstyn's Research on Preventing and Reversing Heart Disease

The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell

Products mentioned in this episode: 

Native Food (Restaurant) - A 100% vegan restaurant offering a variety of plant-based comfort foods, including their popular buffalo chicken sandwich. Located in Glendale, Colorado, and other locations. Native Foods

Just Egg - A plant-based egg substitute made from mung beans, offering a taste and texture similar to scrambled eggs. Just Egg

Violife Cheese - A brand of dairy-free, vegan cheese made from coconut oil and fortified with Vitamin B12. It's known for its creamy texture and is used as a cheese alternative in various dishes. Violife

Instant Pot - Instant Pot

Tailwind - A brand of endurance fuel that provides hydration, energy, and electrolytes in a single drink, designed for athletes during long workouts and races. Tailwind Nutrition

Spring Energy Gels - Natural energy gels made from whole food ingredients, offering sustained energy during endurance activities. They are vegan, gluten-free, and easy to digest.

Picky Bars - Real food energy bars created by athletes, for athletes, with a balanced mix of carbs, fat, and protein. They are plant-based, gluten-free, and designed for performance and recovery. Picky Bars

Element (LMNT) and Mortal Hydration - Hydration products providing essential electrolytes, particularly sodium, without added sugars. These products are used to support hydration during workouts and races. LMNT and Mortal Hydration

Huel - A complete meal replacement product offering balanced nutrition with a blend of protein, carbs, fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Huel's products are vegan and include options for those on gluten-free diets. Huel

Owen (Only What You Need) - A brand offering plant-based protein shakes and meal replacements made from pea protein, flaxseed, and other natural ingredients. They are vegan, gluten-free, and free from the top allergens. Owen

Skratch - A brand that produces hydration and fueling products for athletes, focusing on using real food ingredients. Their products include drink mixes and energy chews, suitable for vegan diets. Skratch Labs

Liquid IV - A hydration multiplier that enhances water absorption, offering rapid hydration with added electrolytes. It's a popular choice for athletes and those needing quick rehydration. Liquid IV

Untapped Maple Syrup - A natural energy source made from pure Vermont maple syrup, offering a simple, real food option for endurance athletes. It's vegan, gluten-free, and rich in antioxidants. Untapped