Tactical Diets with Susan Lopez, Ep 180

🎙️ Episode 180: Tactical Diets with Susan Lopez

What happens when military precision meets performance nutrition? 🫡

This week, we sit down with Susan Lopez, the Tactical Dietitian, to unpack what it really takes to fuel first responders, military personnel, and tactical athletes at the highest level. From metabolic testing to shift work challenges, Susan shares what makes tactical nutrition so unique—and why it’s not just about the macros, but about mission readiness and longevity.

💥 Here’s what you’ll learn: 🍽️ How Susan’s military background shaped her mission to serve tactical athletes 🔥 Why periodization in nutrition can make or break long-term performance 🧠 What RMR + VO2 testing reveal about your true metabolic efficiency ⏱️ How tactical athletes can stay fueled and flexible—even during shift work

Whether you’re on the front lines or just want to train smarter, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for how science and service meet in the kitchen.

#TheMacroPerspectivePodcast #TacticalNutrition #PerformanceNutrition #MetabolicHealth #Periodization #TacticalAthlete #VO2Testing #RMR #HealthOptimization

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(00:00) Introduction to Tactical Nutrition

(02:31) Susan Lopez's Journey to Tactical Dietetics

(05:07) Understanding Nutrition Periodization

(07:44) Addressing Metabolic Health in Tactical Athletes

(10:20) Creating a Personalized Nutrition Plan

(12:58) The Importance of RMR Testing

(15:36) Comparing RMR and VO2 Testing

(18:16) Metabolic Efficiency and Longevity Implications

(23:23) Understanding Respiratory Quotient

(26:19) Metabolic Efficiency and Fuel Utilization

(28:01) Performance-Based Nutrition Approaches

(31:22) Insights from VO2 Testing Experience

(37:30) The Importance of Lactate in Performance

(41:16) Comparing Different Testing Modalities

(45:04) Exploring Cardio and VO2 Max Changes Over Time

(46:58) Genetic Factors in VO2 Max and Performance

(49:56) The Importance of Strength in Tactical Athletes

(53:29) Understanding Baseline and Periodization in Nutrition

(56:25) Navigating Nutrition During Shift Work

(01:02:08) Planning Nutrition Around Life Events

(01:06:01) Connecting with the Tactical Dietitian

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More about Susan Lopez

Susan Lopez has been creating actionable strategies and athlete programs for 12 years. She is dedicated to helping you reach your peak potential as a community member, family member, and human being. Susan served 6 years in the US Army, and has worked with multiple agencies including those from the special operations community, federal & local law enforcement, and the fire service. Susan is married to a special operations service member and enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Credentials: MS, RDN, CSSD, LD, TSAC*F

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You can find Susan here:

Instagram

YouTube

Podcast

Website

You can find The Macro Perspective and its hosts here:

Instagram

Marcos

Seamus

TikTok

YouTube

Facebook

Apple Podcast

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The Macro Perspective is hosted by Marcos Rivera and Seamus Sullivan, and was born from a simple but powerful mission: to help people take ownership of their health and lives. As performance health coaches, they've spent their careers empowering clients to think critically, stay curious, and make informed choices—not just in fitness, but in all aspects of life. This podcast is an extension of that mission, bringing insightful conversations that challenge, educate, and inspire.

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