Food Matters Live Podcast 595: Sports nutrition and functional ingredients - what the science says
Feb 2, 2026
Dr Abby Kayward, science director who grades clinical evidence for supplements; Josh Rowe, sports tech PhD innovating hydrogel fuels; Phil Beard, magnesium researcher and evidence-led formulator. They discuss hydrogel breakthroughs for endurance and reduced GI distress. They cover bicarbonate delivery for power sports. They examine magnesium myths, forms and dosing. They review turmeric, omega-3, collagen and ashwagandha evidence.
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Hydrogel Cuts GI Distress And Improves Endurance Fueling
- Hydrogel technology sidesteps stomach distress to deliver carbs effectively during endurance events.
- The hydrogel forms in the stomach, then degrades in the small intestine releasing glucose/fructose and reducing GI issues for marathon and ultra athletes.
Hydrogel And Bicarbonate Linked To Recent Performance Jumps
- The hydrogel and micro tablet innovations coincided with major performance gains across running and cycling since 2017.
- Josh notes 85% of top 100 marathon performances in recent years and 92% of Paris Olympic medallists used a bicarbonate product.
Use Digital Tools To Personalise Sports Nutrition
- Modern sports supplements need digital tools to translate complex protocols into usable guidance for athletes.
- Josh recommends calculators and apps that convert biometric and training data into personalised nutritional strategies.