The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place Dr. Jeff Sankoff

In this episode:
The recent doping scandal has rocked triathlon and made many question if the sport is as clean as they think. I review the science on what agents dopers use, whether or not they actually improve performance and the shocking numbers of age group athletes that admit to using some form of banned substance in order to get an edge. Plus, an interview with the founder and owner of Varlo the triathlon apparel brand that has taken multisport by storm. Soj Jibowu has infused the company with a work ethic and enthusiasm that only partially explains its success. We talk about the company's philosophy and how their mission is to make triathlon more inclusive for whoever wants to participate.
Segments:
[05:35]- Medical mailbag: Doping in sport
[34:00]- Soj Jibowu of Varlo
Links
Soj Jibowu
Varlo on IG
Varlo website

In this episode:
The ketogenic diet is not a great idea for endurance athletes but some of the theoretical benefits of ketones as fuel are enticing. Supplemental ketones have been used by professional cyclists for some time now, is there any evidence to suggest this is a viable strategy for triathletes? Plus, a conversation with the co-executive director of First Bourne, a new company that offers exciting new options with full service for triathlon camps to athletes and coaches.
Segments:
[08:29]- Medical mailbag: ketone supplements
[27:40]- Jennifer O'Keefe
Links
@first.bourn on Instagram

The dangers of open water swimming are well documents but many also claim that open water swimming made them sick. Is this possible? If so then what can we do to decrease our risks and what should we be watching out for? Plus a conversation with the executive director of the USAT Foundation Thomas Lindberg. He shares with me the fFoundation's history, its mission and some of the good work that they have done over the past couple of years.

Stress has long been known to be an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is considered an important cause of morbidity and mortality. How psychological stress translates to physical disease has not been well understood though. New research suggests a mechanism for this connection and suggests how regular exercise may serve as a buffer of sorts, decreasing the impact of stress and improving long term outcomes. I review the evidence. Plus a conversation with the founder of nutrition app FuelIn, Scott Tindal. We chat about the importance of iron deficiency in athletes and whether or not supplementing with iron is a good idea.

Science is not static and as new papers come out it is worthwhile revisiting previous topics to see if any of my previous conclusions should be updated. On this episode I look at newer research on topics previously covered in several different episodes to see if I should revise what I concluded at that time. Specifically, cold water immersion, platelet rich plasma injections, bicarbonate supplementation and stretching. Plus, endocrinologist Dr. Izzy Smith joins me to talk about FEMMI a women's coaching and educational organization in Australia and New Zealand that helps women and the men that work with them better understand the female reproductive cycle and how it may impact individual training and racing.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a very common mood disorder in the northern hemisphere experienced during the fall and winter months by as many as 5% of the population who live there. What role does exercise and physical activity play in managing the symptoms and can exercise be helpful in preventing this problem? I review the evidence. Plus, an interview with multiple Ironman winner and 2014 IMWC runner-up Ben Hoffman. Ben has had a long and successful career that includes his win at last December's Patagoniaman Xtri in Chile. He joins me to chat about all of that as well as his plans for 2023.