Have we been thinking about sodium all wrong? Dr Alan McCubbin thinks we might have been..

Are daily electrolytes necessary, or is pre-race salt loading a complete waste of time? 

In this episode, sports dietitian and lead sodium researcher Dr Alan McCubbin breaks down the real science of hydration and electrolyte replacement for endurance athletes. Plus, learn how to balance fluid intake with sodium loss, why salt capsules can trigger severe mid-race gut distress, and the truth behind common cramping myths.

This episode is brought to you by TriVelo Coaching. We help triathletes and endurance athletes train smarter to race faster. Your hosts are Australian Ironman Champion Gerard Donnelly and endurance coach Jordan Donnelly.

Time Stamps:
0:00 – Are Daily Electrolyte Supplements a Scam?
1:43 – How Your Kidneys Manage Sodium Deficits
4:40 – Does Pre-Race Sodium Loading Work?
8:04 – Why We Started Researching Sodium for Triathletes
19:37 – The 5-Hour Rule: When Sodium Actually Matters
23:33 – Why Blood Sodium Rises When You Sweat
26:36 – Is the 2% Fluid Loss Rule Outdated?
33:07 – You're Probably Measuring Sweat Loss Wrong
37:28 – Getting the Balance Right Between Fluid and Sodium
44:33 – How Long-Distance Races Change Your Hydration Plan
50:35 – Can Extra Sodium Directly Boost Performance?
55:20 – Why So Many Triathletes Overuse Salt Tablets
59:46 – When Drinking to Thirst Goes Wrong
1:04:00 – Managing Hydration in Extreme Heat & Humidity
1:11:40 – Magnesium, Potassium & Cramping Myths Debunked
1:15:39 – Unanswered Questions in Sodium & Hydration Research

If you want to learn how to TRAIN SMARTER and RACE FASTER, visit trivelocoaching.com.au.

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Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended to be medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. None of the content provided is intended to imply that any products, remedies, or information mentioned are designed to prevent, diagnose, cure, or alleviate any disease, ailment, defect, or injury, nor should they be used for therapeutic purposes. The content is intended to assist you with running, cycling, swimming, or triathlon training and should not replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. We do not accept liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred through the use of or reliance on our content.