May 27, 2026 · 22 min
What happens when endurance sports and bariatric nutrition intersect? In this episode, Alex sits down with Kim Tirapelleto explore the unique challenges and opportunities facing post-bariatric athletes. From fueling long training sessions to maintaining muscle mass and navigating GLP-1 medications, this conversation highlights why individualized nutrition strategies matter more than ever. Kim breaks down the different types of bariatric surgeries, explains how digestion and absorption can impact performance, and shares practical strategies endurance athletes can use to fuel well without overwhelming their systems. Whether you work with bariatric athletes, are one yourself, or simply want to better understand this growing area of sports nutrition, this episode offers a thoughtful and evidence-informed perspective. In This Episode, We Cover: The differences between sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass Why fueling strategies need to be individualized post-surgery How endurance athletes can approach carb loading after bariatric procedures Sports nutrition products and fuels that may be better tolerated The impact of GLP-1 medications on appetite, recovery, and performance Strategies for preserving muscle mass while training and losing weight Research gaps in bariatric sports nutrition and where the field is headed 00:00 Introduction to Bariatric and Sports Nutrition 02:55 Understanding Bariatric Surgeries 05:45 Nutritional Considerations for Endurance Athletes 08:41 Sports Fuels and Their Impact 11:14 Carb Loading Strategies for Bariatric Athletes 14:04 The Role of GLP-1 Medications 16:57 Maintaining Muscle Mass Post-Surgery 19:45 Conclusion and Resources Guest Bio: Kim Tirapelle is a registered dietitian specializing in bariatric and sports nutrition, with a focus on helping active individuals fuel confidently after weight loss surgery. Through her work with endurance athletes and post-bariatric clients, she combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with practical, individualized support to help athletes optimize performance, recovery, and long-term health. Kim is passionate about bridging the gap between bariatric care and sports nutrition, especially in areas like fueling tolerance, muscle maintenance, and endurance training. She is also the host of the Active Bariatric Nutrition Podcast, where she shares education and insights for active bariatric individuals and practitioners alike. Links for Guest: Active Bariatric Nutrition Podcast Kim Tirapelle’s Website Instagram @activebariatric TikTok @activebariatric This episode of Endurance Eats is brought to you by Alex Larson’s 1:1 Nutrition Coaching. If you’ve ever wondered, Am I eating enough? Am I fueling this right? Why do I still feel tired? you’re not alone. Alex Larson Nutrition helps endurance athletes cut through the confusion and build a fueling plan that actually works for their training, lifestyle, and goals. You can learn more at alexlarsonnutrition.com. This Episode is Brought to You By Carb Culture Shop Grab your merch from the shop with saying that endurance athletes just get! This episode is brought to you by Thorne. Shop Thorne Supplements and get 15% off https://www.thorne.com/u/alexlarsonnutrition Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian https://alexlarsonnutrition.com FREE Carb Loading 101 Guide https://alexlarsonnutrition.myflodesk.com/carb-loading Maurten Gel 100 Hüma Energy Gels Skratch Labs Energy Chews Use code ENDURANCEEATS20 Skratch Labs Hydration Sport Drink Mix Use code ENDURANCEEATS20 Science in Sport Energy Gels Connect with Me: Instagram: @alexlarsonnutrition Website: alexlarsonnutrition.com Don’t Forget to Subscribe! Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes. Have Questions or Suggestions? Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!