Job Posting
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Ketogenic Diets, Health, and Running
***The below post comes from Jon Barry; a fellow Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner I met many years ago, and continue to maintain contact with. I wanted to share his perspectives and rationale behind choosing the ketogenic diet. Enjoy! *** The next time you’re at the start (or finish) line of a running race,
Tracking Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by compromised bone strength and elevated bone turnover, which increases an individual’s risk of fracture (Srivastava et al., 2005). Almost 44 million Americans are estimated to have low bone mass which, in 2001, had a direct national expenditure of 17 billion dollars (Srivastava et al., 2005). As such, methods of
Hemochromatosis, Supplementation, and a Tale of Caution
Micronutrient supplementation falls within an industry that generates substantial sums of revenue; Dagerman (2012) noted that in 2009, the aforementioned industry generated 26.7 billion dollars with 1,000 new supplements entering the consumer market yearly, and more than 29,000 supplements available for purchase in total. With such an array of choices, and a lack of quality
Kinesiology Employment Opportunity
Kinesiology Employment Opportunity (Part-Time) Seeking a Kinesiology graduate to work in a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding environment with McIsaac Health Systems Inc (MHS). MHS is a company specializing in post-rehabilitation, personal training, and nutritional coaching. See McIsaacHealthSystems.com for more details about our philosophy, services, and opportunities. You will be provided with abundant
Measuring Folic Acid
Organic acid testing can help detect and facilitate stalled healing and general health problems. Furthermore, such tests help determine if vitamins are functioning adequately within the body (Rogers, 2006). Folic acid, a synthetic version of folate, can be monitored for its effectiveness by an organic acid known as formiminoglutamate (FIGLU). The following will explore the
Folic Acid
Folic acid (also known as B9), is a water-soluble synthetic vitamin; a counterpart of the naturally occurring form (known as folate) found in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, meat, and poultry (Lee & Chan, 2011; Tomita, 2016). Such a vitamin is key for the normal functioning of red blood cells (RBCs), the adequate synthesis of
Krill Oil Vs Fish Oil
In recent posts, I have covered omega-3 oils and their benefits. In recent years, a particular form of omega-3 (krill oil) has been researched and promoted for its particular health benefits. Such benefits include reduced hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and arthritis (Kwantes & Grundmann, 2015). As such, the following will consider krill oil, its safety, and comparative
Vitamin D: Types, Utility, Screening, and Optimal Dosing
Vitamin D is a micronutrient that has been associated with significantly reducing all-cause mortality, and has been implicated in many diseases of modern civilization (Cannell, 2008). Furthermore, and most relevantly, vitamin D interacts with more that 200 genes and multiple organs, indicating its broad reach and influence upon human physiology (Cannell & Hollis, 2008; Wang,
Environmental Toxins and Thyroid Function
In my last post, I provided information regarding the structure and function of the thyroid, in addition to the differences and utility of each thyroid hormone. In the following sections, I would like to briefly explore the impact of environmental exposures (EEs), toxins, and their affects upon thyroid health. Patrick (2009) indicated that EE of
Thyroid Hormone Regulation and Health
Metabolic processes, in addition to normal growth and development, are heavily influenced by the endocrine system; a group of organs, which release hormones directly into the bloodstream (Reisner & Reisner, 2017). Such endocrine glands include the pituitary, adrenal cortex, medulla, pancreas, kidneys, parathyroid, and thyroid. Aberrations in the performance and function of said glands can
Detoxification, Organic Acid Testing, and Glucarate
In recent posts, I have explored methods to improve individuals’ health through movement and nutrition protocols. Although such approaches are highly valuable, they do not account for another dimension known to affect homeostasis; environmental exposures (EE). Once toxins enter the body, it is essential that they are eliminated as they can create aberrations in health
Metabolic Syndrome, Low-Density Lipoproteins, and Fish Oil
Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a condition defined by a constellation of associated risk factors that increase a person’s chances of contracting stroke, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and diabetes (Chen, Yen, Huang, Lee, Hsia, & Lin, 2012). Said risk factors include: abdominal obesity (waist circumference 102 cm for males, 88cm for females), impaired fasting glucose (≥6.1 mmol/L),
Low-Density Lipoproteins and Cardiovascular Risk
Atherosclerosis can be defined as the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls (plaque), which can restrict blood flow (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Said condition can manifest as early as childhood with the development and deposition of fatty cholesterol streaks along the endothelium (blood vessel wall) (Lee & Nieman, 2013).As
Poor Sleep and Insulin Resistance
Research has indicated that genetics and poor lifestyle choices can drive individuals towards insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (Lee & Nieman, 2013). Thus far, we have been exploring methods to monitor and track individuals suspected to be at risk for said conditions. However, I would like to suggest another relevant measure that would help
Hyperinsulinemia, Pre-Diabetes, and Early Detection
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a general term used to describe a group of diseases characterized by an aberration in insulin secretion and/or cellular resistance to said hormone. Such discordance between insulin and the cell can drive elevated plasma glucose levels, inhibit proper metabolism of carbohydrates/fats, induce pathologic changes in nerves/small blood vessels, and aggravate atherosclerosis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: Exploring the Relationship
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects between 11% and 14% of the population characterized by altered gut motility (constipation/diarrhea), visceral hypersensitivity, abnormal brain-gut interaction, autonomic dysfunction, and immune activation (Lin, 2004). Although a diverse range of symptoms exist, 92% of said population exhibit bloating (Lin, 2004). Researchers have postulated that in order for bloating to occur,
Steatorrhea and Fat Maldigestion/Malabsorption
In my last post, I covered the utility of low carbohydrate/high fat diets. However, one must be cautious to assume such diet is beneficial for all individuals as bio-individuality and circumstance might demand a different intervention. Some individuals exhibit an intolerance to fats in the diet, manifested as loose stools, gut discomfort, and low energy
Benefits of Very Low Carbohydrate Ketogenic Diets
Americans consume approximately 55% of daily calories from carbohydrates that can include refined sources and simple sugars (Abbasi, 2018). Very low carbohydrate ketogenic diets (VLCKDs) can be defined as 20-50 grams of carbohydrates per day with, or without, the presence of ketosis (Feinman et al., 2015). Said dietary approaches have been explored, in addition to
Urinalysis of Glucose and Ketones
Urinalysis of glucose and ketones are non-invasive tests, which are used to reflect the levels of said molecules in the blood. Such tests are often used to monitor the effectiveness of interventions (i.e., nutrition, medication, lifestyle) for diabetics and individuals with insulin resistance (Pagna & Pagna, 2014). As a means of appreciating the need and
The Elderly: Optimal Protein Sources and Consumption
Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) does affect the elderly population. The loss of skeletal muscle mass from inactivity and lack of food consumption can negatively affect performance and activities of daily living in said population (Lancha, Zanella, Tanabe, Andriamihaja, & Blachier, 2017). Furthermore, the loss of skeletal muscle can begin as early as the 4th decade of
Assessing Health Through Protein Status
In my last post, anthropometric assessments (body mass index, waist circumference, skinfold measurements, and bioelectrical impedance) were considered as a means of exploring an individual’s nutritional and health status. Although such measures are considered useful, biochemical tests provide another layer of screening designed to provide deeper objective and quantitative findings. Such biomarkers, in conjunction with
Measuring Body Composition
Body composition (BC) can be defined as the proportions of various tissues (i.e., fat, muscle, and bone) making up the body, which is generally expressed as percent body fat and percent lean body mass (Lee & Nieman, 2013). As such, knowing BC can help one track changes during weight loss or weight gain programs, in
MyFitnessPal Diet Analysis; Strengths and Limitations
Modern Western diets have experienced a drastic change compared to civilizations of 10,000 years ago (Ilich, Kelly, Kim, & Spicer, 2014). Today, approximately 70% of total energy emanates from refined vegetable oils, processed foods, sugars, and alcohol (Ilich et al., 2014). Such an aberration in nutrition quality over a relatively short period in human history
Crohn’s Disease, Vitamin D, and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
Research has indicated that individuals with Crohn’s disease (CD) can benefit from vitamin D3 supplementation (Carvalho et al., 2013). However, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can blunt the anti-inflammatory properties of said vitamin. Such phenotypic variability makes one question the efficacy of recommending vitamin D3 supplementation without first considering potential roadblocks to absorption and utilization. The
Hiring a Personal Trainer
What are the qualities that employers look for when recruiting and hiring a personal trainer? Thus far, I have presented information outlining continuing education, considered a vital component of a personal trainer’s resume. In the following sections, I would like to consider an “outside” point of view from an employer’s perspective; to explore and consider
Where Does Kinesiology Fit?
Where does Kinesiology fit? I remember a powerful article I read by Ives and Knudson (2007), indicating what they considered important components to a well-rounded academic program in exercise science. They argued, persuasively, that a good program was composed of several sub-disciplines (i.e., exercise physiology, biomechanics, functional anatomy, motor learning). The point that resonated, and
A Case For Continuing Education
Undergraduate degrees generally provide foundational knowledge that students build upon by experience and discovery of new information. In the following sections, I would like to explore why mandated continuing education (CE) is a viable option by considering the work of Landers, McWhorter, Krum, and Glovinsky (2005). Landers et al. (2005) noted their study that indicated
Prevention and Management Strategies for Cardiac Arrest
In my last post, I outlined factors that could contribute to cardiac arrest, as a first step in anticipating and managing weight room emergencies. In the following sections, I would like to build on the aforementioned early detection strategies by outlining a prevention and management program suggested by Abbott (2013). Abbott (2013) submitted that although
Cardiac Arrest; Are We Prepared?
Awareness and identification of liability exposures in a fitness facility is a central step in developing strategies for protecting clientele, and employees (Einkoff-Shemek & Deja, 2000). A common accident that occurs in fitness facilities is cardiac arrest, and some institutions still experience difficulties preventing and managing cardiovascular complications when it they do occur (Abbott, 2013).
Personal Trainer Scope of Practice
Of particular interest is a personal trainer’s scope of practice (SOP). Abbott (2012) defined SOP as the limitations imposed by law on different vocational pursuits that require a specific educational background and a demonstrated level of competency. Scope of practice also outlines responsibilities and limitations of a professional (Abbott, 2012). In a effort to gain
Standards and Guidelines; Constituents of Professionalism
Professionalism can be defined as the conduct, goals, or qualities that characterize a profession or a professional (Professionalism, 2014). There are many constituents of professionalism that share similar, as well as different, ideals across fields of expertise and organizations. However, a common unifying archetype often found among professions, especially health professions, is the need to
Exercise Science Degrees; Finding Better Disciplinary Balance
In my last post, I explored the inadequacies of an exercise science degree that focused too narrowly upon one academic sub discipline (i.e., exercise physiology) as the central focus of the program. In the following sections, I would like to explore the constituents of a well-rounded and balanced exercise science degree, as well as a
Exercise Science Degrees; Are They Practical?
In past posts, I explored professionalism within the exercise profession, as well as the constituents that formed credibility. I advocated higher academic standards as a vital first step in moving the exercise professional field in a favorable and advantageous direction. However, is it possible that foundational knowledge within some of our academic institutions is lacking in
Food, Sleep, and Low Grade Chronic Inflammation
Modern Western diets, including macronutrient ratios and macronutrient quality, are substantially different than the hominin diets 10,000 years ago (Ilich, Kelly, Kim, & Spicer, 2014). Modern diets tend to include over 70% of total energy from refined sugars, refined vegetable oils, processed foods, and alcohol (Ilich et al., 2014). Of particular interest is the shift
Nutrition and Bone Healing
Day and DeHeer (2001) considered the role of adequate protein ingestion, and lack thereof, when treating older individuals recovering from bone fractures. Using rat models, the authors explored how poor protein ingestion before fractures affected bone healing; studies prior to the aforementioned experiment considered low protein intake after injury. Day and DeHeer (2001) submitted that the
Open Reduction and Closed Reduction Internal Fixation: Pros and Cons
Malalignment or displacement (terms used to describe abnormal position of fracture fragments) of bones requires interventions, which stabilize and immobilize the tissue for optimal healing (Delforge, 2002). Two prominent methods that enhance bony union while reducing chances of malunion (i.e., healed fracture fragments in a malaligned/imperfect position) include the open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and
Medial Collateral Ligaments, and the Healing Process
Understanding the tissue healing process, without medical intervention, serves as a baseline to determine and compare the efficacy of modern-day therapeutic techniques. As a means of appreciating the undisturbed process of tissue healing, the following will examine the research of Frank, Woo, Amiel, Harwood, Gomez, and Akeson (1983) as it relates to medial collateral ligament
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction; The “Ligamentization” Process
Ligament strength is essential to maintaining joint stability, and prevention of injury. Collagen, a structural protein constituting 65%-80% of the dry weight of ligaments and tendons, provides the majority of functional integrity and framework, as seen on the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) (Marumo, Saito, Yamagishi, & Fujii, 2005). Thus, finding a suitable tissue replacement for
Tissue Healing
The post had lost of pics so I uploaded in PDF. Please click on the file below: Module #2 Post #1 -Michael McIsaac
Connective Tissue; Structure and Function
Tissues of the human body can be classified under 4 major sub-types: epithelial, nervous, muscle, and connective (Delforge, 2002). Connective tissue bind cells, other forms of tissues, and organs in a way, which provides mechanical support, strength, integrity, and form to structures found within the body (Delforge, 2002). Finally, connective tissue is composed of 3
Observational Learning
There are many ways in which people acquire skills. Some prefer to have auditory descriptions, others enjoy performing (i.e., kinesthetics) the skill, and yet others prefer seeing (i.e., visual) the skill executed. These methods are not mutually exclusive, and can occur in many combinations with varying levels of contribution. For the purposes of this discussion,
Subtleties of Repetition
Repetition in and of itself may hold little value in skill retention or performance enhancement. I would like to explore factors that do enhance the learning experience, their relationships to repetition, and the application of both. Lee, Swanson, and Hall (1991) reminded us that repetition by itself is not what allows a person to acquire
Practice, Instruction, and Skill Acquisition
Complex movement patterns are often taught by an observational means through demonstration. I would like to discuss when, where, and how observational instruction is efficacious, and how it might be fused with other teaching strategies to yield optimal outcomes. Williams and Hodges (2005) told us that demonstration is best suited for outcome goals with movement
Reducing Dependency From Constraints
In recent posts, I provided information on how to use constraints in order to facilitate the learning process for the deadlift pattern (accompanying videos are at the end of this post for your review). However Magill (2011) stated that too much use of sensory feedback causes a dependency. I would like to explore this problem
Movement Vs Skills
Clark (1995) posited that skillfulness is the impetus to a nation of physically active people. I would suggest that skillfulness alone is shortsighted. I would like to explore this concept more deeply. A skill is an activity or task that has a specific goal (Magill, 2011). Magill also made it clear that skills and movements
Train Muscles, or Movement Patterns?
It is intriguing that skill acquisition emanates from constraints imposed upon us (i.e., environment) from within us (i.e., the organism) as well as the task itself (Clark, 1995). These concepts find their home within the dynamic pattern theory, accompanied by self-organization, patterns and stability. I’d like to explore the utility of these perspectives in reducing
Training the Neck
When I have clients gently lay supine with a soft ball (i.e., squash ball) on the levator scapulae, it often replicates the referral pattern up along the same side of the neck/ear. I do not think that self-myofascial release (SMR) fixes the underlying problem. However, I do think it helps create temporary relief, without the
Barefoot Training
In the last year approximately, I have been experimenting with having clients perform some exercises (i.e., standing) without shoes. I have read about the benefits, but never truly was “sold” on why. I believe I did not appreciate the concept of proprioception, and its relationship to the sensorimotor system. The sensorimotor system contains two fundamental
Dynamic Systems Theory and the Sensorimotor System; Understanding the Relationship
Dynamic systems theory (DST) helps medical and exercise professionals understand and explain the nature and causes of movement skill acquisition (Magill, 2011). The sensorimotor system could be viewed as the conduitthrough which individuals gather, process, and disseminate information, and movement, within the environment. In essence, there exists a symbiotic relationship between DST and the sensorimotor