In this episode of the Y Health Podcast, host Dr. Cougar Hall interviews Rachel Higginson, the Director of Sports Nutrition for BYU Athletics, about the evolving role of nutrition in athletic performance and everyday health. Rachel shares her journey from clinical dietetics to sports nutrition, highlighting the growth of the nutrition program at BYU, particularly after joining the Big 12. 

Key topics discussed include: 

• Intuitive Eating: Learning to listen to the body's natural hunger and fullness cues.
• Balancing Nutrition for Athletes: The importance of carbohydrates for pre-workout energy and protein for post-workout recovery.
• Hydration and Performance: How sweat testing informs customized hydration plans for athletes.
• Nutrition Myths and Social Media Influence: Addressing misinformation and the dangers of extreme dietary rules.
• The Mental and Emotional Side of Eating: How food choices, body image, and societal pressures impact overall well-being.
• Practical Tips for Parents: How to handle picky eaters and create a positive food environment for children.

Rachel also discusses her upcoming book, "Pizza Boy", which explores picky eating in a fun and relatable way. The conversation wraps up with an insightful discussion on body image, self-worth, and the spiritual connection between body and soul, encouraging a balanced and compassionate approach to health.
 

Recorded, Edited & Produced by Christy Gonzalez, Harper Xinyu Zhang, Kailey Hopkins, and Tanya Gale