Does Body Weight Affect How You Should Fuel During Exercise?

The Eat for Endurance Podcast

Want to get in touch? Send Claire a message!

In episode 115 of The Eat for Endurance Podcast, I welcome back Sports Dietitian Stevie Lyn Smith, MS RD CSSD to dive into how body weight impacts fueling needs during exercise.

For years, carb recommendations during exercise were based on duration and intensity, without considering body size. New research suggests that larger-bodied athletes may benefit from higher carb intake to optimize performance.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Traditional carb guidelines during endurance exercise, and why they have been independent of body size
• How a 2024 study suggests a potential shift toward considering body-weight when setting carb fueling goals
• Why smaller athletes still need to fuel adequately
• How training status and workout intensity also play a major role
• Key considerations for long-course events like triathlons and ultramarathons
• The importance of fueling, regardless of weight loss goals

Key Takeaway:

Fueling needs are individual (have I said this one enough?!). Larger-bodied athletes may need more carbs during exercise, but every athlete, no matter their size, deserves and needs proper nutrition to perform and recover well.

🎧 Tune in to learn more!

Links & Resources:

• Stevie's website
• Join my monthly membership service, Fuel for Life Crew, for just $30/month (cancel anytime)
• Check out my free nutrition downloads
• Fill out a new client inquiry form if you’re interested in 1:1 nutrition coaching
• Support the podcast with my affiliate codes: EATFORENDURANCE20 for Skratch Labs
• Join my Patreon community
• Get in touch at [email protected]

Disclaimer – all information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is in no way meant to replace individual medical and nutrition recommendations

Support the show

Thanks for listening! Follow me on Instagram and Facebook (@eatforendurance).