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In this episode, we welcome back, Christa Smith RD, LD, CSSD, MCN, CPT for a part two! She discusses the critical role of nutrition for athletes with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). She emphasizes the importance of proper fueling and hydration to protect gut health, especially during athletic endeavors. The discussion covers the consequences of under-fueling, signs to look for, and the impact on gut health and hormonal balance. 

Christa also shares case studies highlighting the transformative effects of proper nutrition on athletes' performance and well-being. Christa discusses the evolving role of dietitians in collegiate athletics, the prevalence of nutrition misinformation, and the implications of popular diets like keto and carnivore for athletes, particularly those with IBD. 

The importance of fiber for gut health is emphasized, along with a detailed exploration of creatine as a supplement, its benefits, and common misconceptions. The discussion concludes with practical advice for IBD athletes on fueling and hydration.

Takeaways-

• Under-fueling is a common issue among athletes
• Fear of eating can lead to under-fueling in IBD patients.
• Early signs of under-fueling include fatigue, heavy legs, and brain fog.
• Under-fueling can slow down gut function and lead to digestive issues.
• Chronic energy deficiency can cause widespread hormonal changes.
• Females are more sensitive to negative energy balance than males.
• Intervening early can prevent the development of disordered eating.
• Proper nutrition can significantly improve athletic performance and health.
• Case studies highlight the importance of addressing under-fueling in athletes. 
• Keto and carnivore diets are not suitable for athletes.
• Fiber is essential for gut health and athlete performance.
• Creatine is beneficial for muscle growth and recovery.
• Creatine can support brain health and decrease muscle loss.
• Proper fueling and hydration are vital for IBD athletes.
• Access to dietitians is incredibly beneficial for athletes and optimizes their performance. 
• Understanding the role of carbohydrates is key for athletes.

00:00- The Importance of Nutrition for IBD Athletes

02:56- Understanding Under-Fueling and Its Consequences

06:01- Signs of Under-Fueling in Athletes

08:52- The Impact of Under-Fueling on Gut Health

12:11- Hormonal Changes Due to Energy Deficiency

15:14- The Psychological Effects of Under-Fueling

17:48- Case Studies: Transformations Through Proper Nutrition

26:46- The Role of Dietitians in Collegiate Athletics

30:49- Nutrition Misinformation and Its Impact on Athletes

31:15- The Keto and Carnivore Diets: Myths and Realities

35:25- The Importance of Fiber for Gut Health

37:38- Understanding Creatine: Benef

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Ashley