Episode 312: Optimizing Stress and Performance for Firefighters and Tactical Athletes with Dr. Drew Gonzalez

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Drew Gonzalez to explore strategies for optimizing performance and managing stress in high-demand professions like firefighting, military, and executive leadership. Dr. Gonzalez shares his latest research on how supplements like astaxanthin and creatine can benefit firefighters, the effects of time-restricted feeding, and how heat stress and VR training can be leveraged for better stress adaptation.

We also explore his ongoing work at Texas A&M, where he leads cutting-edge research and collaborations to improve first-responder health and fitness.

Sponsors:

• Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%
• LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.com
• Physiologic Flexibility Certification Course coming soon: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/

Triphasic 2 book now available!

• Go to https://triphasic2.com/

Episode Chapters:

• 05:33 Dr. Gonzalez's Research Journey
• 08:25 Challenges Faced by Tactical Personnel
• 14:08 Time-Restricted Feeding Study
• 23:19 Heat Stress and Temperature Changes
• 28:08 Exploring the Need for Specialized Training
• 29:30 The Role of VR in Tactical Training
• 30:59 Assessing Physical and Mental Performance
• 33:46 Astaxanthin and Firefighter Health
• 38:41 Future Research and Supplementation
• 44:31 Closing Remarks and Future Guests 

Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: 

• Episode 223: Embracing challenges and pushing boundaries with bestselling author Michael Easter 
• Episode 228: Unlocking the Power of Astaxanthin: A Deep Dive with Dr. Karen Hecht

Connect with Dr Gonzalez: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewwgonzalez/

Get In Touch with Dr Mike:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg
• Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter