In this episode, we discuss fat through the lens of performance and survival, and what happens when we push our energy systems to their limits. We also talk about how our bodies make adaptations via exercise to improve our ability to “burn” fat for fuel, and how our bodies conserve fuel during times of negative energy balance. Lastly, we preview the role of fat as an endocrine organ and the importance of its communication with the brain, as well as the critical role of exercise capacity for our future health.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
01:49 – Extreme Endurance
02:54 – Fuel Source & Effort
03:12 – Glycogen
05:16 – Using Fat for Fuel
08:48 – Known Limits of Prolonged Energy Expenditure
10:21 – Metabolic Rate & Endurance Duration
14:00 – Physiology of Fat
16:18 – Insulin & Catecholamines in Fat Metabolism
19:10 – Fat as an Endocrine Organ
21:05 – Exercise & Maximal Fat Oxidation
22:02 – Exercise & Future Health
22:55 – Summary
References
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- Carey, Daniel G. 2009. “Quantifying Differences in the ‘Fat Burning’ Zone and the Aerobic Zone: Implications For Training.” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research / National Strength & Conditioning Association 23 (7): 2090.
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