#314 Leah Headon: Performance Nutrition, Gut Health, Mental Habits & More
02 February 2026

#314 Leah Headon: Performance Nutrition, Gut Health, Mental Habits & More

Any Given Runday

About

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, performance & Wicklow GAA nutritionist Leah Headon (@haeloo_nutrition on Instagram) shares her journey into the field of nutrition, discussing her personal experiences with diabetes and an eating disorder that shaped her understanding of food and health. The conversation delves into topics such as gut health, the balance between weight loss and performance, the impact of hydration, and the importance of nutrition habits. Leah also addresses common myths in the nutrition space and provides practical tips for marathon training, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to fuelling and recovery.

17:00 Welcome to the podcast, Leah Headon
19:48 Leah's Journey to Nutrition
22:52 Understanding Gut Health
25:25 Nutrition for Athletes
28:21 The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods
31:19 Balancing Nutrition and Weight Loss
34:13 Intermittent Fasting and Its Effects
43:49 Fuelling Performance: The Role of Diet
45:15 Psychology of Cravings and Eating Habits
46:19 Hydration and Its Impact on Performance
49:38 The Importance of Mental Habits in Nutrition
51:34 Nutrition Strategies for Marathon Training
54:29 Caffeine and Fuelling During Races
59:35 Debunking Nutrition Myths and Misconceptions
63:14 Final Thoughts on Nutrition and Performance

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@anygivenrundaypodcast




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