Personal Trainer & Health Fitness News

New Link Found between Heart Disease and Red Meat Consumption

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:22:11 GMT

According to new research by the Cleveland Clinic published online in the journal Nature Medicine, high red meat intake may be associated with heart disease based on a factor not commonly considered by the general public. According to the study, the vitamin-like compound carnitine found in red meat may have a direct part to play in the development of atherosclerosis (clogging of arteries) in conjunction with the relatively high cholesterol and saturated fat content commonly provided by red meat foods. L-Carnitine is sold as a supplement purported to improve fat oxidation and weight loss, reduce lactate production and improve VO₂max.

Living to 100: Tips for Healthy Aging

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 09:57:20 GMT

According to the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, the nation’s most rapidly growing population segment is the elderly - specifically those over 80. The average American is not only living longer, but they are doing so in significant numbers. In fact, it is estimated that more than 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 everyday. Stephen Jones, MD, a board-certified Geriatric Medicine Specialist and Director of the Center for Healthy Aging at Greenwich Hospital in Greenwich, Connecticut refers to these baby-boomers as “geri-boomers”. He perceives it is a much more applicable term considering the gradual increase of older adults in the United States and the age range this population is now reaching.

STOP Obesity Alliance Develops Guidelines for Non-Profit Hospitals

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 09:38:21 GMT

New requirements of the Affordable Care Act require more than 2,900 of the non-profit hospitals in the United State to produce a Community Health Needs Assessment identifying local health needs in order to qualify for federal tax-exempt status. In an effort to help guide these non-profit hospitals develop programs that address the obesity epidemic and comply with the new federal standards, the Strategies to Overcome and Prevent (STOP) Obesity has released a set of 5 research-based recommendations.

Exercise Decreases in the United States in 2013

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:31:34 GMT

2013 has seen the percentage of Americans who exercise for at least 30 minutes, three or more days per week, decrease to 52.4% from a 2012 percentage of 53.9% according to a recent Gallup poll.

Energy drinks, Blood Pressure and Myocardial Function

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:18:24 GMT

According to new research presented at the American Heart Association's (AHA) Epidemiology and Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism 2013 Scientific Sessions, energy drinks may cause a dangerous increase in systolic blood pressure and even disturb the heart's natural rhythm. In the investigation, data was analyzed from seven previously-published observational and interventional studies to determine the impact of chronic energy drink consumption on heart health.

Reducing Salt Intake While Simultaneously Increasing Potassium

Wed, 01 May 2013 10:53:21 GMT

According to new research presented by the British Medical Journal (BMJ), cutting down on salt while simultaneously increasing potassium intake has the potential to produce major health and cost-related benefits worldwide. When a surplus of sodium is ingested without an appropriate counterbalance of potassium, the excess sodium content pulls water into circulation increasing total blood volume, and consequently pressure exerted against major vascular structures. When this acute effect becomes chronic, we see the progression of major cardiovascular diseases with an increased risk for myocardial infarction or stroke due (in part) to vascular damage and hormonal changes.

President’s Federal Budget Increases Funding for Fitness

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:24:36 GMT

Earlier this month (April 2013), the White House released the President’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2014. Of note and specific to the fitness industry is a budgeted increase of nearly $1 million to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (PCFSN).

Acute Neuromuscular and Metabolic Responses to Concurrent Training

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:43:11 GMT

New research from the University of Memphis’s Human Performance Laboratory examined the acute neuromuscular and metabolic responses to various combinations of concurrent endurance and resistance exercise. It is well known that endurance training and weightlifting induce significantly dissimilar physiological responses, and resultant adaptations. Previous research has shown that high-volume concurrent training results in the body siding with aerobic adaptations (due to the hormonal response).

Compression Garments and 400-M Sprint Performance

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 12:09:42 GMT

It has been well documented in clinical trials that graduated compression clothing can provide therapeutic benefits such as improved muscle oxygenation, enhanced circulation in the limbs (especially lower body), a reduction in venous pooling, and reduced tissue edema. These garments are commonly used to reduce the progression of venous disorders and disease.

Self-Myofascial Release and Range of Motion

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:54:22 GMT

New research from Memorial University of Newfoundland’s School of Human Kinetics and Recreation sought to examine how an acute bout of self-myofascial release (SMR) via foam rolling would influence subsequent measures of range of motion (ROM), muscle activation and total force output within the tissues addressed. Foam rolling, which is primarily used to reduce myofascial restriction, is also believed to improve muscular function, performance, overuse-related issues, and joint ROM.

Core Exercises - Integration versus Isolation

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:59:20 GMT

New research from Penn State University’s Department of Kinesiology compared select integration and isolation exercises for the core musculature to see which type induces greater core muscle activation. Core training has been a very popular subject over the last few decades, and has been the focus of significant research.

Newly Discovered Protein Regulator Appears to be Key to Muscle Growth

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 13:01:05 GMT

Novel research published in the journal Cell and implemented by a team of scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has isolated a new protein-based regulator of energy metabolism in muscle that appears to spur fiber growth and increase measures of power. The team suggests that artificially raising levels of the protein in the body may someday help prevent muscle loss caused by cancer, prolonged inactivity, muscle-wasting disorders such as muscular dystrophy, as well as simple age-related sarcopenia.

Nutritional Considerations for Minimizing Sarcopenia among Older Adults

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:20:47 GMT

The United States has an aging population, and with that comes an increasing propensity toward health concerns. It is well documented that older age is associated with high risk for cardio-metabolic disease as well as a decline in movement capabilities. Clearly, engaging in appropriate exercise is critical to the maintenance of independence as well as a greater quality of life among older adults.

Just Stand up to Increase Daily Muscle Activity

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 15:23:10 GMT

Recent findings suggest that both the lack of physical activity and prolonged periods of sedentary behavior significantly increase the risk of chronic diseases. A growing concern is that they function independently of each other.

National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) Calls Physical Education Class Cuts a Mistake

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 13:41:24 GMT

With proper education on the importance of regular exercise, healthy children are on the right track to becoming healthy adults. Nonetheless, numerous reports cite drastic cuts being made to Physical Education (P.E.) classes across the United States.

Weightlifting Greatly Reduces the Risk for Metabolic Syndrome

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 16:52:30 GMT

Metabolic syndrome presents as a cluster of risk factors directly linked to cardiovascular and metabolic disease. Individuals with at least three out of five specific risk factors meet the diagnostic criteria for the syndrome.

Waist Circumference and Pulmonary Function

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:29:31 GMT

Research has clearly identified the negative impact of central obesity on health and the risk for disease. Android obesity is known to increase the risk for diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, osteoarthritis, dyslipidemia, certain types of cancer, and all-cause mortality. Hormonal changes associated with significant visceral fat storage present as a low-grade inflammatory response within nearly all body tissues; this ultimately leads to insulin resistance, atherosclerotic build-up, and disturbances in the secretion and function of adipokines.

Reduced Fat Intake Alone (Without Dieting) Can Lead to Significant Weight Loss

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 14:32:14 GMT

A new study published in the British Medical Journal demonstrated that individuals can lose notable weight simply by reducing their total fat intake without engaging in a strict dieting plan. The report was commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) following a request to update their guidelines on total fat intake. The results are expected to be crucial in making global recommendations.

Reducing the Medical Cost of Low Back Pain

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 13:04:21 GMT

While evidence suggests that conservative measures are generally more effective for diagnosing and treating low-back pain, expensive imaging exams and surgeries performed in the US continues to rise. With the renewed attention on health care reform, a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that >25% of American adults reported at least one episode of acute low-back pain in the past three months (in reference to the administration of the survey), with the annual cost to patients equaling nearly $100 billion.

Inter-Association Task Force: Preventing Sudden Death in Secondary School Athletics

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:39:41 GMT

The NCSF will be working with the NATA and NSCA among others on an Inter-Association Task Force: Preventing Sudden Death in Secondary School Athletics. The charge is to provide guidelines for medical and athletic professionals in high school athletics to manage the risks associated with intense exercise, appropriate medical coverage or supervision for conditioning sessions, as well as proper medical knowledge and training for strength and conditioning coaches.

Weightlifting Greatly Reduces the Risk for Metabolic Syndrome

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:49:20 GMT

The Majority of Americans Want Greater Nutrition Data from Restaurants

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:52:14 GMT

Technomic, a consulting and research firm that serves the food industry, recently conducted a survey that examined current restaurant user attitudes and found that 65% of American patrons would like to see enhanced nutrition labeling on restaurant menus. Total calories and sodium content were at the top of the list of requests.

Current Alcohol Consumption Statistics in the United States

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 12:21:15 GMT

New data derived from the 2007-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and published by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revealed that 5% of the average American adult’s caloric intake comes from alcohol. Among individuals who regularly consume alcohol, this value spikes to 16%.

Even Active Women Spend Too Much Time Sitting

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:13:00 GMT

New research conducted at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity demonstrated that women who exercise regularly spend just as much time sitting as women who do not.

Aetna’s Fitness Reimbursement Program Accepts Exercise as Preventative Medicine

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:59:28 GMT

Steps towards integrating fitness for prevention have been taken by Aetna, a leading insurance provider, which demonstrates the acceptance of preventative medicine as a viable solution for large companies.

Food Intake and Exercise

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:26:46 GMT

Anecdotal inferences suggest food intake increases with participation in exercise; however, new research challenges this notion. A study conducted at BYU found that 45 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise performed in the morning actually decreased a person’s desire for food and did not appear to adversely affect their appetite later in the day.

Resistin, Cholesterol, and Heart Disease

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:34:23 GMT

New research conducted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada has demonstrated that the protein structure known as resistin secreted from adipose tissue can increase the production of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) in liver cells as well as degrade LDL receptors in the liver.

Letter Asks “Supercommittee” to Maintain Prevention and Public Health Funding

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 15:54:17 GMT

The International Health, Racquet, and Sports club Association (IRHSA) has signed on along with 100 national organizations to a letter being sent to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (aka the “supercommittee”) asking that the funding for a number of health promotion programs not be reduced, specifically the Prevention and Public Health Fund.

Physical Education in Public Schools Decreased Due to Loopholes

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:49:21 GMT

According to a recent report, Shape of the Nation, from the National Association of Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) and the American Heart Association (AHA) the children enrolled in public schools are not receiving enough exercise due to “loopholes” in educational curriculum. The report found that although the vast majority of States (43 for elementary, 41 for middle school, and 44 for high school) require physical education, most do not set minimum requirements with regard to hours of participation.

Green Tea and Anxiety

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:19:21 GMT

Tea has been cultivated for centuries, with its roots beginning in India and China. Presently, it is the most extensively consumed beverage worldwide, second only to water.

Interval Training for Maximal Energy Expenditure

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 12:42:11 GMT

It is well known that exercise intensity influences the relative caloric expenditure per unit time of work. Essentially, the higher the intensity, the greater the caloric yield during a given training session. For individuals that do not have either the physiological or psychological capacity to engage in a continuous bout of high-intensity activity, interval training can be a viable approach for improving cardiovascular fitness and energy expenditure.

Flaxseed and Exercise

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 10:48:20 GMT

The benefits of proper nutrition on overall health have been well-documented, and researchers are continually studying the effects of nutrients on specific health factors. One nutrient of interest, flaxseed or more precisely the fat - alpha linolenic-acid (ALA), has recently gained attention due to its potential heart-healthy benefits.

Social Influence on Food Consumption

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:12:31 GMT

New research published in the British Journal of Nutrition by psychologists at the University of Birmingham examined the effects of a social environment on the consumption of food. The research team monitored 100 women at a lunch buffet and concluded that the participants instinctively mirrored the eating habits of the people around them, even if they were currently attempting to lose weight.

Deceptive Claims of Weight Loss Supplement

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 14:28:31 GMT

Ads for quick weight-loss products are rampant across the Internet. The Federal Trade Commission has charged several companies with misleading the public via deceptive claims regarding the efficacy of their products.

More Than Two Dozen CEOs Take Physical Activity Pledge

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 13:38:32 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – (September 24, 2012) Chief executive officers of more than two dozen corporations and organizations pledged to engage their employees and themselves in physical activity September 24 as part of a nationwide campaign launched today by the National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity .

Stick to the Weights

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:09:53 GMT

While some claim independent modalities can replace all other weightlifting, research has not supported the marketing clamor. In a recent research investigation, traditional weightlifting exercises where compared to kettlebell training on measures of fitness.

The Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on Systemic Inflammation and Associated Disease

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 13:14:21 GMT

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have long been touted as beneficial to cardiovascular function and health via various mechanisms. Their cardio-protective attributes are chiefly derived from positive effects demonstrated on the endothelial lining of major vascular structures (especially arteries).

Fitness Leads to Longevity

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 10:31:21 GMT

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center and The Cooper Institute have found that individuals who maintain their physical fitness in their 30s, 40s, and 50s not only exhibit a greater likelihood of living longer, they also increase their chances of aging free of chronic illnesses.

Magic Mushrooms?

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:34:43 GMT

Agaricus blazei murill is a variety of mushroom purported to have anti-carcinogenic potential as well as liver enhancing characteristics. While previous research on rats cited a potential for increased natural killer cells and potential benefits for those with Hepatitis B, the dietary supplement may also potentially help fight obesity and other metabolic disorders such as insulin-resistance and low-grade inflammation.

Type II Diabetes – Prevalence and Problems

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 11:28:31 GMT

The diagnosis of type II diabetes has increased dramatically since 1990, and researchers are estimating that the prevalence will increase 64% by 2025. Approximately 53.1 million people will be affected by the disease, which is primarily the result of a sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits. The burdens of a diabetic population on the nation are widespread; obesity and inactivity have become a norm, and as a result, younger generations are at greater risk of developing type II diabetes and other associated diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.

Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) Releases Obesity Report

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 09:38:21 GMT

An analysis released by the Trust for America’s Health has found that 12 States have obesity rates over 30%, with Mississippi leading the way at 34.9%. Colorado (20.7%) was identified as the least obese state.

United States Obesity Threatens Economic Future

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:17:59 GMT

Earlier this month a report titled: “Lots to Lose: How America’s Health and Obesity Crisis Threatens our Economic Future” was released by the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC). The report calls on legislators in the United States Congress to enact policy that would continue or expand primary prevention.

Cost of Employing the Unhealthy

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 13:05:21 GMT

Looking for an incentive to start a corporate wellness program? Need ammo for your next powerpoint presentation to justify why every company needs a professional trainer on staff? In a recent study analyzing the 7-year incremental cost of smoking and obesity, researchers found the annual incremental mean costs of smoking by age group ranged from $1,274 to $1,401.

How does the Affordable Care Act Affect Health Clubs & Businesses

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 13:36:20 GMT

In June, the United States Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, upheld the Affordable Care Act as constitutional. The law, which was originally passed in 2010, is purported to extend healthcare coverage to millions of Americans and hopefully rein in some of the exponentially increasing healthcare costs. As with many laws, the Affordable Care Act is multi-faceted and contains many aspects which will both directly and indirectly affect the fitness industry.

Adequate Protein May Assist with Weight Loss

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 10:28:12 GMT

Protein is often a crucial component of weight-loss plans because of its ability to provide satiety over the course of several hours. A study published in the July 2012 issue of Cell provides further insight into how the body digests proteins and how they trigger greater levels of appetite suppression than either carbohydrates or fat.

Bananas as Good as Sports Drinks?

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 12:31:00 GMT

In the quest for optimal nutrition, athletes are continually looking for convenient options that are palatable and easy to eat, especially during endurance events in which consuming calories can be difficult and unappealing. Sports drinks commonly dominate the selections simply out of convenience; and while effective many people are turned off by the idea of consuming what is essentially sugar water with added electrolytes.

Physical Activity Improves Cardio-Metabolic Factors

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 15:39:00 GMT

Children who spend more time participating in physical activity than their peers are more likely to have a lower risk of cardio-metabolic factors such as elevated blood pressure and waist size, regardless of time spent sedentary. Researchers compiled data from 14 studies performed between 1998 and 2009. They separated more than 20,000 children into one of three groups depending on the amount of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and time spent sedentary.

Calorie Restricted Diets…Good or Bad?

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:05:10 GMT

In this era of excess consumption and obesity, new research has found that following a restricted-calorie diet can improve heart function in older individuals. Calorie Restriction (CR) as a structured diet has been in existence for approximately 20 years; followers consume a diet in which they reduce their caloric consumption 10-40% below that which the body would normally desire in the belief that it will extend their life span by several years.

Childhood Obesity Stats from CDC

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 13:11:12 GMT

While Adult obesity seems to be leveling off, the pace still lends itself to a growth rate of 4% over the next 20 years; at the same time childhood obesity is reaching epidemic proportions. At the 2012 Weight of the Nation convention, the Centers for Disease Control presented sobering statistics regarding the level of obesity in the nation, and offered recommendations that can be implemented in schools and places of employment to help people achieve a healthier weight.

NCSF Joins NCPPA

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 10:26:51 GMT

The National Council on Strength and Fitness is proud to announce their position as a member organization of the National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity (NCPPA). As a Leadership Level Organization, NCSF joins esteemed organizations such as the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, and the International Health, Racquet & Sports Club Association in supporting the NCPPA’s mission uniting public, private, and industry efforts to “inspire and empower all Americans to lead more physically active lifestyles.”

Sedentary Workers Need More than Exercise

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 13:46:34 GMT

Everyone knows that physical activity is a pillar of health, and that exercise can help improve one’s overall physical condition. Although it is possible regular exercise can make a person healthier, long periods of daily inactivity have recently been shown to cause health risks even if a person engages in weekly physical activity.

Skechers Settles with FTC for $40 Million

Tue, 29 May 2012 12:56:00 GMT

In what is believed to be the largest ever Federal Trade Commission (FTC) settlement involving consumer refunds, Skechers has agreed to pay $40 million to settle charges that it misled consumers about the benefits of Skechers toning sneakers. Skechers began selling “toning” shoes such as the Shape-Ups in April 2009 and then in 2010 released Resistance Runner, Toners and Tone-ups.

FDA Warns Against VMaxx Rx

Tue, 22 May 2012 10:22:11 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to consumers about VMaxx Rx, a product marketed online for sexual enhancement. FDA laboratories have confirmed that VMaxx Rx contains the undeclared ingredient sulfoaildenafil, an analog of sildenafil, an FDA-approved prescription drug commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Health

Thu, 17 May 2012 11:24:13 GMT

Obesity is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, especially if the weight is concentrated in the region above the belly button. Regardless of whether one follows a low-carb diet or a low-fat diet to lose weight, researchers have found that the greater the loss of belly fat, the greater the improvements to blood vessel function and the better the flow of blood throughout the body, both of which reduce the risk of vascular issues. Researchers at Johns Hopkins performed a six-month study of 60 men and women who weighed an average of 215 pounds at the outset and recently presented their findings at an American Heart Association scientific meeting that focused on cardiovascular disease prevention.

Bite Size Linked to Smell of Food

Mon, 07 May 2012 13:22:35 GMT

How much we eat tends to be determined by sensations other than physiological feelings of need, creating an environment that often results in excessive consumption of calories and subsequent weight gain. A study published in the journal Flavour found that strong aromas are linked to smaller bites, suggesting that the sense of smell can be harnessed to affect portion sizes.

Popcorn an Antioxidant?

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 19:55:11 GMT

Popcorn has long been a popular snack food, but its nutritional profile has seen its share of ups and downs. Plain, air-popped popcorn only has about 30 calories and a gram of fiber per cup, but movie theater popcorn has long been recognized as a nutritional hazard, containing anywhere from 500 to upwards of 1,000 calories per tub because of the oil in which it is cooked and the butter added to finish off its health rewards. Popcorn, however, has been found to contain nutrients that play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease and some cancers.

Examining Diet Patterns

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:50:13 GMT

Demographics such as age, race, and gender strongly influence an individual’s eating habits, according to the scientists who presented their findings at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism 2012 Scientific Sessions. The researchers analyzed food frequency questionnaires filled out by over 21,000 black and white adults ages 45 and older and found that, in general, individuals follow one of five dietary patterns.

Obesity Rates Still High

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:58:21 GMT

At the beginning of the year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released its latest findings on obesity, and the numbers tell a grim tale. Approximately 35% of American adults are classified as obese while a staggering 17% of US children and teens are obese. Obesity rates, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, education level, socioeconomic status, or geographic region, continue to rise. The numbers today are most likely even worse than reported due to a 2-year lag in data collection and processing.

Health Club Tax Proposed in California

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:55:21 GMT

In an effort to help close a reported budget gap of $9.2 billion, California has introduced Assembly Bill 1963 (AB 1963) which would require gyms/fitness facilities to impose a 4% sales tax on any services provided. This would directly impact gym membership fees as well as the fees associated with personal trainer services.

High Protein Diets and Obesity

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:20:53 GMT

Variations of the high-protein diet – Zone, Atkins, Dukan – have maintained popularity for several decades, but their long-term efficacy and safety remains uncertain. For the 20 percent of overweight Americans suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), these high-protein diets may cause additional kidney damage. CKD is a progressive disorder that, at its most severe, requires dialysis or a transplant; between 2000 and 2007, the cost of caring for end-stage patients rose from $12.2 billion to $20.8 billion.

Potential Regulation of 4-MI in Sodas

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:25:32 GMT

Coca-Cola and Pepsi together sell the world’s first, second, third and sixth most popular sodas, the sales of which earn each company billions of dollars annually. The distinctive brown shade of these sodas comes from an additive known as 4-methylimidazole (4-MI), a byproduct of the chemical process used to combine ammonia and sulfites that is listed on an ingredient label as caramel coloring.

Long-Term Antioxidant Supplementation and Health-Related Quality of Life

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:30:13 GMT

New research implemented by a group of French universities and published in the journal Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation examined the potential effects of long-term antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The perceived benefits of antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation on health and performance have been aggressively researched, but still remains one of the most controversial issues in human nutrition. Antioxidants are known to prevent the potentially damaging actions of free radicals by removing their unpaired electrons and converting them into less reactive compounds; thus reducing their potential for damaging numerous bodily structures such as cellular membranes, protein structures, and even DNA.

Is Coconut Water Beneficial?

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:42:27 GMT

Fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike are constantly looking for the “next great thing” to improve their training through nutritional advantages. Recently, coconut water has garnered a great deal of attention in the sports drink arena.

Reducing Obesity Saves Money

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:22:21 GMT

A recent reported titled “Bending the Obesity Cost Curve” was released by Trust for America’s Health, a bipartisan non-profit, whose primary mission is disease prevention.

Cuts Ahead for National Prevention Fund

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:37:21 GMT

President Barack Obama’s proposed 2012 budget looks to reduce the Prevention and Public Health Fund by more than 20% over the next decade. The Campaign to End Obesity Action Fund announced in mid-February that $4 billion dollars in obesity prevention programs would be cut as outlined in the President’s 2012 budget proposal.

Relationship between Macronutrient Composition of Excess Calories and Increased Body Fat

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 17:06:12 GMT

New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) investigated the metabolic and physiological differences encountered when over-consuming calories while following a low-protein, normal-protein, or high-protein diet. The researchers found that those who followed the low-protein diet experienced less relative weight gain, but a greater relative increase in body fat.

New Exercise Stress Signaler for Muscle Adaptations Identified

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:41:20 GMT

Researchers have identified a new key factor produced in working muscle that functions to promote muscle growth according to a study recently published in Cell Metabolism, a Cell Press journal. This signaling compound, known as serum response factor (Srf), essentially translates the mechanical signals of muscular work into a chemical signal that promotes protein synthesis. The numerous mechanisms behind training adaptations are extremely intricate and still not completely understood.

American Dietetic Association Becomes Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:19:00 GMT

Effective January 2012 The American Dietetic Association the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals will change its name to the Academy of Nutrition and DieteticsThe announcement of the name change was actually made in September by registered dietitian and ADA President Sylvia Escott-Stump at the Opening Session of ADA's 2011 Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo in San Diego, Calif.

Top 5 Health Trends for 2012

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:17:37 GMT

The Values Institute at DGWB (a social science research entity based in Santa Ana, CA) used observational studies to identify the top five health and wellness trends among Americans in 2012. The agency’s Balanced Healthy practice teamed up with Iconoculture of Minneapolis (international research firm) in early 2011 to study the behavior of Americans who actively attempt to maintain or improve their health (currently considered about 74% of the population).

Stress, Cortisol and Abdominal Weight Gain

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:14:21 GMT

Many individuals annually encounter weight gain during the holiday season partly due to higher stress levels, less free time to engage in exercise, and additional caloric consumption at social events. A new study by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) published in the online Journal of Obesity explored the methods and effectiveness of mindful eating and stress-reduction techniques to help in the prevention of weight gain without diet intervention.

The Industry Defense Fund

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:10:38 GMT

The International Health, Racquet, and Sports club Association (IHRSA) launched the 2012 Campaign for the Industry Defense Fund. Donations to the fund allow IHRSA to continue to work hard for the protection of the health and fitness industry.

Monetary Incentives for Wellness?

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 11:28:21 GMT

According to a survey conducted by the National Business Group on Health this past Fall, more businesses than ever are offering or plan to offer monetary incentives to employees for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In 2011, 54% of the 335 companies surveyed were using financial rewards in their health promotion programs compared with 36% in 2009.