Eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors represent complex, multifaceted challenges that affect individuals across all demographics, yet they remain widely misunderstood and under-recognized. These issues often extend beyond the stereotypical images associated with eating disorders, touching everything from rigid “clean eating” obsessions to the normalized extremes of diet culture.

At the heart of these behaviors lies a disruption in one’s relationship with food, often fueled by societal pressures, unrealistic body ideals, and a pervasive focus on aesthetics over health. While these challenges are tenacious, recovery and improved relationships with food are possible with the right interventions, resources, and awareness.

In this episode, Danny talks to Dr. Jillian Lampert, a registered dietitian with a PhD in public health nutrition, with a speciality in eating disorders and disordered eating.

• [02:56] – What are eating disorders? a breakdown of core concepts
• [05:15] – Beyond stereotypes: the widespread impact of eating disorders
• [14:41] – Disordered eating in sports and fitness: risks and realities
• [19:41] – Guidance for practitioners: recognizing and addressing red flags
• [22:50] – Barriers in treating eating disorders: challenges and solutions
• [43:50] – Advocacy and systemic change: the future of eating disorder care

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• The Emily Program
• Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy, & Action (EDC)
• National Alliance for Eating Disorders

In a world flooded with information, discerning fact from fiction in fitness and nutrition has never been more challenging—or more important. The rise of social media and democratized science has given everyone a platform, but not all voices are equal.

How do we navigate a landscape where influencers with massive followings wield the same credibility as seasoned experts? Why do pseudoscientific trends gain traction while nuanced evidence gets lost in the noise?

In this episode we also dive into the evolution of coaching, examining how the obsession with quantifiable metrics has shifted the focus away from human connection. How can professionals balance the drive for scalable success with the need for meaningful client relationships? And what lessons can we draw from decades of shifts in the fitness industry to stay resilient amid rapid societal and technological changes?

• [04:33] Eric’s personal journey and influence
• [06:08] Evolution of bodybuilding coaching
• [10:32] Challenges in interpreting scientific research
• [17:35] Historical trends in diet and nutrition
• [25:49] Information overload and misinformation
• [43:07] Understanding fractional counting in hypertrophy
• [44:24] Challenges in communicating scientific concepts
• [47:27] The psychology of persuasion
• [49:07] The role of marketing in science communication
• [54:46] Balancing data and intuition in coaching
• [01:03:59] Navigating the future of nutrition coaching
• [01:08:34] Building trust and connection with clients

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• Dr. Helms’ MASS Research Review is a monthly publication that includes easy-to-read breakdowns of the latest training and nutrition research

IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1) has emerged as a hot topic in health and nutrition discussions, often linked to longevity, cancer risk, and metabolic health.

On one hand, IGF-1 is essential for growth, repair, and metabolic regulation; on the other, it is sometimes associated with disease processes, including cancer and cognitive decline.

For those intrigued by the intersection of nutrition, biomarkers, and disease prevention, IGF-1 offers an opportunity to explore how science grapples with these complexities.

Claims about manipulating IGF-1 through dietary changes — whether by reducing protein or adopting fasting protocols — are common. But does the evidence support these claims?

If you’re curious about IGF-1 and the relationships between diet, disease, and healthy aging, in this Premium-exclusive episode Danny and Alan discuss this fascinating topic.

To listen to the full episode, subscribe to Sigma Nutrition Premium

• [02:21] IGF-1 and Diet: Examining the Relationship
• [09:15] IGF-1 as a Biomarker: Challenges with Sensitivity and Specificity
• [11:54] IGF-1 and Cancer Risk: Insights and Complexities
• [25:51] IGF-1 in Aging: Cognitive Function and Longevity Considerations
• [43:38] Key Takeaways: IGF-1, Diet, and Practical Advice

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• Murphy et al., 2020 – observational and Mendelian randomization analyses