EPISODE #148: Eat, Run, Thrive: Professor Gardner Shares the Truth About Fueling with Science

In this episode of RUNWITHALLI LIVE, I’m joined by Professor Christopher Gardner, PhD — a world-renowned nutrition scientist, Rehnborg Farquhar Professor of Medicine at Stanford, and Director of the Stanford Nutrition Studies Research Group.

For over 30 years, Professor Gardner has led groundbreaking human nutrition studies exploring the real-world impact of diets like Mediterranean, Ketogenic, Vegan, Low-Fat, and Low-Carb on heart health, glucose levels, inflammation, and overall well-being. He’s also a former chair of the American Heart Association’s Nutrition Committee and recently served on the 2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.

Our conversation dives into everything from:

• What to eat (and avoid) to feel and perform your best
• Why nutrition is key to long-term endurance performance
• The role of the gut microbiome and personalized nutrition
• How to make healthy food taste unapologetically delicious
• And why "stealth nutrition" might be the next big thing

Fun fact: I took Professor Gardner’s 8-week Stanford nutrition science course, which completely changed how I view performance fueling. It inspired me to deepen my own nutrition education so I can better support runners like YOU.

Whether you’re a marathoner, weekend warrior, or just looking to fuel your best life, this episode will leave you informed and inspired.

Hit play, and let’s dive into the science (and joy!) of food for performance with Professor Gardner.

Connect with Professor Gardner:

• Nutrition Group Website
• Online Nutrition Course
• Instagram
• Twitter/x
• LinkedIn

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