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Sian Seccombe On How Underfueling Can Effect Your Running

Sports nutritionist, Sian Seccombe, explains underfueling, carb myths, and RED-S in runners in the episode of the Runna Podcast.

Written by Anya | Runna Athlete
Updated today

In this episode, sports nutritionist and marathon runner, Sian Seccombe, joins us to break down one of the biggest issues in running today: underfueling.

From carb fear to hitting the wall, to the long-term risks of RED-S, this conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and explains how nutrition actually impacts your performance, recovery, and health.

Watch or listen to the full episode to hear the full conversation.

Underfueling Is Not Always Obvious

Sian sheds light on the the issue of underfueling not always being obvious. It often builds as a cumulative effect and can looks like:

  • Feeling constantly tired

  • Struggling to recover between sessions

  • Hitting the wall earlier than expected

  • Plateauing despite consistent training

Because underfueling isn’t just about one run. It’s about what’s happening across your entire week.

Listen to the episode to understand how underfueling shows up – and what to look for.

The Truth About Carbs

Carbohydrates are one of the most misunderstood aspects of running nutrition.

For years, diet culture has painted carbs as something to cut back on or avoid altogether. But for runners, that mindset can do more harm than good.

“There is no such thing as a good or bad food, It’s the right food at the right time."

Sian explains why carbs are essential, and why they’re something runners should embrace – not fear.

This episode sheds light on just how important adequate energy intake is to your training, no matter what level you're starting from.

“If you are not giving your body what it needs, you’re not going to get the most out of your sessions. I am the fastest and the strongest I’ve ever been — and I eat the most I’ve ever eaten.”

What Is RED-S (And Why It Matters for Runners)

One of the most important parts of this conversation is RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport). At its core, RED-S is what happens when your body doesn’t have enough energy to support your running.

Listen to the episode to learn how to spot the warning signs, why it’s more common than you might think, and what you can do to fuel properly and stay healthy.

This Episode Is for Runners Who Want to Get More From Their Training

You don’t need to be training for an elite marathon to take something from this.

Because beneath all the detail, this episode simplifies something important:

Fuel well → Train better → Perform better

If you’ve ever wondered whether your nutrition is helping or holding you back - this is the episode to listen to.

Watch or listen to the full episode to hear the full conversation.

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