Bronson Dant | Carbs vs. Ketogenic: A Response to Dr. Zaldivar | November 13, 2025 Ep. 37
Summary:In this episode, I welcome back Bronson Dant to discuss the ongoing debate about the role of carbohydrates in athletic performance, particularly in contrast to ketogenic diets. Bronson challenges recent claims made by influencers about the necessity of carbs for muscle building and performance, emphasizing the importance of metabolic flexibility and individual dietary choices. The conversation delves into the science behind energy sources in exercise, the nuances of personal responses to diet, and the potential pitfalls of overconsumption of carbohydrates. Bronson advocates for a more nuanced understanding of nutrition that respects individual needs and experiences. Find Coach Bronson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.bronson/Website: https://coachbronson.com/Takeaways:Alex McDonald ran five marathons in five days, fasted.Carbohydrates are not necessary for endurance performance.Fat adaptation can support endurance without carbs.Muscle building does not require carbohydrates.Recovery and glycogen replenishment can occur without carbs.Individual choice is key in nutrition.Glycation from carbs can increase injury risk.Fat oxidation is more stressful than carb oxidation.Performance is similar on ketogenic and carb-based diets.Tracking individual responses to carbs is essential.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Diets02:09 Challenging Claims on Carbohydrates05:56 Nuances of Individual Dietary Choices09:55 The Role of Carbs in Athletic Performance17:44 Metabolic Flexibility and Its Misconceptions23:36 Research Insights on Ketogenic vs. Carb-Fueled Performance31:31 Debunking Ketogenic Diet Myths37:22 Performance Perspectives on Low-Carb Diets42:25 The Role of Fat in Athletic Performance48:55 Carbs vs. Ketosis: The Muscle Building Debate59:44 The Role of Fasting and Body Fat in Energy Production01:00:24 Carbohydrates and Recovery: Myths and Realities01:01:27 Glycogen Replenishment: Fat Adaptation vs. Carb Fueling01:02:11 Oxidative Stress: Carbs vs. Fats in Energy Production01:05:58 Glycation and Injury: The Hidden Costs of Carbs01:09:17 Individualized Nutrition: Finding Your Optimal Carb Intake01:10:25 Fat Adaptation: Benefits and Cycling Carbs01:17:47 The Importance of Fat Intake for Athletes01:20:05 Personalized Nutrition: The Key to Success01:21:33 Future Projects and Research in NutritionKeywords:ketogenic diet, carbs, performance, muscle building, metabolic flexibility, exercise science, nutrition, athletic performance, influencer claims, dietary choices, endurance, carbohydrates, muscle building, recovery, nutrition, fat adaptation, performance, individual choice, glycation, health