# Steroids, DIY Cheap Nutrition Products, Inflammation and More – Ask a Cycling Coach 289 **URL:** \ **Category:** Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast\ **Tags:** podcast\ **Created:** [December 17, 2020, 1:59am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991 "2020-12-17T01:59:04Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Jonathan](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/jonathan/32/15_2.png) [@Jonathan](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/Jonathan)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 1:59am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/1 "2020-12-17T01:59:04Z")
SARMS are banned substances surrounded by plenty of confusion, so what do we actually know about them? Tune in for a deep dive into SARMS, DIY nutrition products that are cheap and accessible, and how to reduce inflammation but still prioritize recovery. Join us live on YouTube tomorrow at 8:00am Pacific, or catch it afterward on YouTube or your favorite podcast app! * * * #### YouTube Video: [![](https://global.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/original/3X/d/0/d027421f875c73810b5f66774116dc08782c36ae.jpeg "Steroids, DIY Cheap Nutrition Products, Inflammation and More – Ask a Cycling Coach 289") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHrNe1iv7eQ) https://open.spotify.com/embed-podcast/episode/5jQxEnV3L5JZVhjnk0SKluhttps://embed.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recovery-drinks-overtraining-beginner-racing-and-more/id1035433041?i=1000502010493&itsct=podcast_box&itscg=30200&theme=dark * * * #### Topics Covered in This Episode - What are SARMS and why are they illegal? - Are SARMS steroids? - What are the side effects of SARMS? - How much inflammation is too much? - Why inflammation is necessary to getting stronger and faster - Are antioxidants bad for recovery? - Do NSAIDS blunt recovery? - Should you lick your heart rate strap? - How to use Plan Builder if you don’t have a race on your calendar? - Strength training without a gym - How to identify limiters - Ultra-distance training with short workouts - How to train for a Gran Fondo - How to change training plan volume with TrainerRoad - DIY cheap nutrition options - Why we produce mucus when training - Does blackcurrant make you faster? * * * #### Studies and Resources Referenced in This Episode - [Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) – What Athletes Need to Know](https://www.usada.org/spirit-of-sport/selective-androgen-receptor-modulators-sarms-prohibited-class-anabolic-agents/) - [Recreational Use of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators](https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/recreational-use-of-selective-androgen-receptor-modulators) - [FDA In Brief: FDA warns against using SARMs in body-building products](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/fda-brief/fda-brief-fda-warns-against-using-sarms-body-building-products#:~:text=Life%20threatening%20reactions%2C%20including%20liver,on%20the%20body%20are%20unknown) - [Resolution of inflammation: an integrated view](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23592557/) - [Adipo-Myokines: Two Sides of the Same Coin](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/249967360_Adipo-Myokines_Two_Sides_of_the_Same_Coin-Mediators_of_Inflammation_and_Mediators_of_Exercise) - [Aerobic but not Resistance Exercise Can Induce Inflammatory Pathways via Toll-Like 2 & 4](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29185059/) - [Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine responses to a 164-km road cycle ride in a hot environment](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00421-016-3452-5) - [Adaptations to endurance training depend on exercise-induced oxidative stress](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317190265_Adaptations_to_endurance_training_depend_on_exercise-induced_oxidative_stress_Exploiting_redox_interindividual_variability) - [Nutrient Timing: A Garage Door of Opportunity?](https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/6951/3275a72c2d1730109955e7c9977a0c78fe4c.pdf?_ga=2.141832882.1433508084.1608122128-361811453.1580740080) - [TrainerRoad’s Plan Builder Feature](https://www.trainerroad.com/plan-builder) - [Prevalence of Rhinitis in Athletes: Systematic Review](https://sci-hub.st/https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijoto/2017/8098426/abs/) - [Exercise-induced rhinitis: a common disorder that adversely affects allergic and nonallergic athletes](https://sci-hub.st/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1081120610612446) - [The prevalence and current opinion of treatment of allergic rhinitis in elite athletes](https://sci-hub.st/https://journals.lww.com/co-allergy/Abstract/2011/04000/The_prevalence_and_current_opinion_of_treatment_of.8.aspx) - [Dietary Anthocyanins: A Review of the Exercise Performance Effects and Related Physiological Responses](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327333729_Dietary_Anthocyanins_A_Review_of_the_Exercise_Performance_Effects_and_Related_Physiological_Responses) * * * #### TrainerRoad Podcast Network [Submit your Question to the Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast](https://www.trainerroad.com/podcast) [Subscribe to the Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast](https://www.trainerroad.com/podcast) [Subscribe to the Successful Athletes Podcast](https://www.trainerroad.com/successful-athletes-podcast) [Submit your story to the Successful Athletes Podcast](https://www.trainerroad.com/successful-athletes-podcast) ---
**Author:** ![Jonathan](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/jonathan/32/15_2.png) [@Jonathan](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/Jonathan)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 1:59am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/2 "2020-12-17T01:59:14Z")
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**Author:** ![bigbadbrad](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/bigbadbrad/32/48424_2.png) [@bigbadbrad](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/bigbadbrad)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 6:56pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/3 "2020-12-17T18:56:02Z")
Did @Nate_Pearson post a link to his weighted blanket? ---
**Author:** ![mcneese.chad](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/mcneese.chad/32/15056_2.png) [@mcneese.chad](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/mcneese.chad)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 7:03pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/4 "2020-12-17T19:03:20Z")
> [@bigbadbrad](#): > > weighted blanket - Here is one from an older thread. Not sure if it’s the same one? > [@FTP Improvement, Sleep Deep Dive, Training Outside & More – Ask a Cycling Coach 207](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/ftp-improvement-sleep-deep-dive-training-outside-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-207/17107/14): > > ZonLi Premium Weighted Blanket 20 lbs | 60’‘x80’’ | Cooling Weighted Blanket for Adults 180-220 lbs | Light Grey | Premium Cotton with Glass Beads | Best Gift for Father [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075W9CL88/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_cp\_api\_i\_9cqbDbGDXGTR1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075W9CL88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9cqbDbGDXGTR1?tag=trainerroad-20) ---
**Author:** ![Nate\_Pearson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/nate_pearson/32/117463_2.png) [@Nate\_Pearson](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/Nate_Pearson)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 11:07pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/5 "2020-12-17T23:07:21Z")
ZonLi Premium Weighted Blanket 20lbs(60’‘x80’', Queen Size), Cooling Weighted Blanket for Adults, 100% Cotton Material with Glass Beads [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075W9CL88/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_cp\_api\_glc\_fabc\_-r-2FbVSHKYEP?\_encoding=UTF8&psc=1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075W9CL88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_-r-2FbVSHKYEP?tag=trainerroad-20) ---
**Author:** ![mcneese.chad](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/mcneese.chad/32/15056_2.png) [@mcneese.chad](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/mcneese.chad)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2020, 11:14pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/6 "2020-12-17T23:14:30Z")
Much appreciated for the bike fitter touch-up comments. 😃 ---
**Author:** ![achase6002](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/achase6002/32/7757_2.png) [@achase6002](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/achase6002)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 1:23am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/7 "2020-12-18T01:23:15Z")
Just wanted to say thanks again to @Nate_Pearson for teaming up with me for the paraolympics attempt. I don’t think I’ve ever had this much motivation to train. ---
**Author:** ![chris137](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/chris137/32/20349_2.png) [@chris137](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/chris137)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 2:20am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/8 "2020-12-18T02:20:02Z")
Thanks so much for the birthday shout-out guys. That was so crazy. I could not believe it was happening. Huge fan of the product and the podcast. You’ve turned a random, middle-aged, out-of-shape guy, off the couch into a cyclocross addict and someone who already had a half-respectable Mt Washington Hill Climb time (in 2019) after my first 7 months with the app, and hopefully bigger and better things in 2021. Really appreciate everything you do, thank you. ---
**Author:** ![mrpedro](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/mrpedro/32/59752_2.png) [@mrpedro](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/mrpedro)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 9:50am UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/9 "2020-12-18T09:50:54Z")
Was reading a bit about making your own sports drink for during the ride. Something that came up, that was not mentioned in the show was how you should have carbs at 6-8g per 100 ml (which is 60-80g per liter for the metrically challenged). Supposedly this is the same particle concentration as your blood, such that it will be quickly processed in your body. If your drink contains more carbs, your body will first need to dilute it with water from elsewhere before the carbs can be used. ---
**Author:** ![toribath](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/toribath/32/34696_2.png) [@toribath](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/toribath)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 12:01pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/10 "2020-12-18T12:01:15Z")
Some cheap/accessible nutrition ideas from my low-budget college kitchen; -freezer waffles -fruit snacks/rolls -granola bars (check the label, as the macro breakdown can vary pretty considerably. the fruit-filled ones or anything oat based are usually higher in carbs and lower in fat/protein) -salted licorice -rice krispy treats. Also protip you can make those with any cereal. -mochi (these are my favourite!) -apple chips -pretzels -roasted root veg- taro, sweet potato, plantains etc. Bottom line: go for anything aggressively marketed towards children, because it’s almost always carb-based and low on fiber (go figure) Also vegemite sandwiches \> PB&J. ---
**Author:** ![JohnWilliam](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/johnwilliam/32/543_2.png) [@JohnWilliam](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/JohnWilliam)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 12:13pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/11 "2020-12-18T12:13:43Z")
The anti-oxidant discussion is so interesting. so if I am getting it right… - training produces the required stress - not pushing anti-oxidants straight after allows for long-term adaptive response - anti-oxidants close to activity, reduces the adaptive response, prioritizing short term recovery over long-term adaption? so in most cases, there is little reason to be reaching for the anti-oxidants straight after the workout, rather leave it as part of a balanced diet to ensure there is sufficient long-term adaption. exceptions to this rule woudl be when short term repetitive performance is needed, so the stage race example, or maybe during a taper period heading into a big event? ---
**Author:** ![ckk81](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/ckk81/32/7746_2.png) [@ckk81](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/ckk81)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 1:59pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/12 "2020-12-18T13:59:59Z")
Rice cake recipe, you’re guaranteed\* to win World Tour races after eating. [Team recipe: On-the-bike rice cakes | EF Education-EasyPost](https://www.efprocycling.com/team-recipe-on-the-bike-rice-cakes/) \*guarantee not guaranteed. ---
**Author:** ![Nate\_Pearson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/nate_pearson/32/117463_2.png) [@Nate\_Pearson](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/Nate_Pearson)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 2:14pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/13 "2020-12-18T14:14:54Z")
With current evidence, that’s our opinion and a lot of researcher’s opinion. But…it could change with future research. ---
**Author:** ![l33ump](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/l33ump/32/32123_2.png) [@l33ump](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/l33ump)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 4:16pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/14 "2020-12-18T16:16:15Z")
Biggest takeaway from today is if I get abducted I don’t have to worry about the duck tape any longer ---
**Author:** ![mcneese.chad](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/mcneese.chad/32/15056_2.png) [@mcneese.chad](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/mcneese.chad)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 4:44pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/15 "2020-12-18T16:44:29Z")
My chest strap HR wetting trick: - Get a bit of spit on my fingers (not really gross?) and then transfer that to the strap pickups with your fingers. No need to directly lick that lovely nastiness with your actual tongue 😉 ---
**Author:** ![bbarrera](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/bbarrera/32/14734_2.png) [@bbarrera](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/bbarrera)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 5:19pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/16 "2020-12-18T17:19:07Z")
> [@mcneese.chad](#): > > Get a bit of spit on my fingers (not really gross?) and then transfer that to the strap pickups with your fingers. is there any other way? 😂 Falling behind on podcasts because its the most wonderful time of the year (to steal a line from a song). This was probably mentioned in the podcast, however I’ll offer my best practice - if I’m getting dressed and my skin is dry - and its cold and dry in garage/outside - then a dab of this: [![](https://global.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/original/2X/b/b0eeb2d6b5f4298f7c2ba78d74f322295d8fc3bd.jpeg) ](https://global.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/original/2X/b/b0eeb2d6b5f4298f7c2ba78d74f322295d8fc3bd.jpeg) is exactly what you need! Original idea from DCRainmaker: > **[Annual Public Service Announcement: How to fix heart rate strap dropouts/spikes](https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2012/12/annual-public-service-announcement-how-to-fix-heart-rate-strap-dropoutsspikes.html)** > > I just wanted to put out a quick post as a reminder for folks that may be running into heart rate strap spiking or dropout issues with colder/dryer weather.  A dropout is when the strap monitoring your heart rate records/displays Note: one tube will last a lifetime! [Giveaway- electrode gel for chest straps - #3 by bbarrera](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/giveaway-electrode-gel-for-chest-straps/6508/3) ---
**Author:** ![EmilyS](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/emilys/32/42852_2.png) [@EmilyS](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/EmilyS)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 7:09pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/17 "2020-12-18T19:09:09Z")
Omg salted licorice is THE BEST ---
**Author:** ![roadbiketrevor](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/roadbiketrevor/32/89694_2.png) [@roadbiketrevor](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/roadbiketrevor)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 7:37pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/18 "2020-12-18T19:37:46Z")
came in here for rampant speculation re: what Jonathan’s teased announcement might be. Disappointed at lack of rampant speculation. ---
**Author:** ![bmcd](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/bmcd/32/20016_2.png) [@bmcd](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/bmcd)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 7:51pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/19 "2020-12-18T19:51:11Z")
Vegemite toast is a go to for me before a TR session (and nearly every morning for breakfast). ---
**Author:** ![maasa](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/trainerroad/forum/user_avatar/www.trainerroad.com/maasa/32/145386_2.png) [@maasa](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/u/maasa)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2020, 9:19pm UTC](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991/21 "2020-12-18T21:19:17Z")
I make my own gel that i carry in 150ml soft flasks. The benefits aren’t only price but you get rid of the gel wrappers and it’s quicker to squeeze a soft flask than to open a gel. I use this recipe: 9 high5 zero sodium tablets 390ml watten 130g blackcurrant juice 120g lemon 470g maltodextrin 235g fructose Atamon (a preservative) This comes to about = 1350g 1080ml 1250g/l About 3200kcal 440kcal/150ml 110g carbohydrates/150ml All mixed in a saucepan on low heat to dissolve all the sugars. When it’s been cooled to room temperature I pour the content into water bottles and store them in the refrigerator. Extremely cheap as you can buy all the ingredients in bulk online and in my opinion the soft flasks are easier to use on the bike than commercial gels. [Next page](https://www.trainerroad.com/forum/t/steroids-diy-cheap-nutrition-products-inflammation-and-more-ask-a-cycling-coach-289/48991.md?page=2)