The Starting Blocks

Landmark Study Proves the Leader in Health Supplements

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 17:35:00 +0000

The healing benefits of ingredients from Mother Nature have been used by many different cultures all over the world to cure hundreds of common ailments and diseases. The use of herbal "supplements" in various forms has been prevalent since the beginning of history. In recent centuries, scientists have developed ways to deliver important vitamins and minerals our bodies in the form of multi-vitamins. The multivitamin and supplement industry is multi-billion dollar industry, and it's still growing in popularity. Millions of people all over the world take multivitamins and supplements to improve their health and athletic performance.

Like most products on the market today, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of brands to choose from. One might wonder if one product is really better than another or if any of them are as effective as they claim. People have different methods of distinguishing good products from bad: they may judge by cost, packaging, reputation of the company, recommendations from friends or family, or just deciding that one "looks" the best. None of these methods prove anything about the efficacy of the products themselves. To help users know for certain that a product is indeed the most effective and contain the highest quality ingredients, the Landmark Study was conducted. The study proves that there is only one company with the proof that its products are as effective as they claim.

The study was first made public at annual conference in Nashville, Tennessee, in August of 2007. It was also the impetus for development of the super multivitamin, also released in August of 2007. The clinical research study was conducted at the University of California at Berkeley, and it involved more than 1,000 participants. Non-supplement users made up 602 of the participants, while 176 subjects used a wide array of multivitamins and supplements on a daily basis, and 278 of the people had been using multiple supplements for twenty years or more from one company. All participants completed an online questionnaire, as well as a physical exam.

The study concluded that those using supplements from this one company, had significantly better health than those using other supplements and those who used no multivitamins or supplements. Those using supplement users of this one company “were more likely to have optimal concentrations of biomarkers associated with reduced disease risk, and less likely to have suboptimal circulating nutrient concentrations, elevated blood pressure, and diabetes than other multivitamin/mineral users and non-users.” Long term users of supplements from this company had lower rates of heart disease, inflammatory auto immune disease, diabetes, arthritis, emphysema, and strokes. The study verifies that there is only one company with clinical proof of the efficacy and benefits of their products.

INDUSTRY STANDARDS

This is not the first time products from this company have shown a significant influence on the health industry. In 1993, this company was selected to produce a customized rehydration system for NASA astronauts. The custom-made drink helps astronauts remain conscious while re-entering earth’s atmosphere. The product, known as Astro-Aide, is still used today in the space program.

Many world class athletes also rely on products from this company to keep them healthy and at peak performance. None of these athletes are paid for endorsements. Serious athletes know the importance of good nutrition and optimal health, and therefore use products from this company as part of their training and nutritional programs.

Rehab Begins: Nutrition Do And Do Not

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 02:40:00 +0000

You may be trying to figure out how all of this sharing my surgery experience ties into the Starting Blocks commitment to athletic excellence and promoting integrity in sports nutrition. First I would hope in some way by sharing my experience I would inspire any athlete to continue their pursuits of excellence. Maybe this will help someone through a time when they are trying to find that internal strength to endure difficult workouts. We all have goals and visions. I hope that by sharing my experience you will overcome all of the challenges and experience the rewards of excellence.

Second, I hope to share with you the importance of integrity in nutritional supplementation. Athletes are always looking for an edge and many times are pressured into using supplementation which can be detrimental to their careers and dangerous to their health. Today’s update is focused on the importance of supplementation in my rehabilitation process. More specifically, knowing what supplementation may be DANGEROUS to my health because of the medication I have to take.

Leading up to surgery the doctors did not want me to be using supplementation which are thinning to my blood. This blood increases bleeding during surgery. The following is a list of supplements which I was using and had to discontinue before surgery:

Here are the products I use/used

1. Glucosamine had to be ended 2 months before surgery because it stays in your blood stream for up to 2 months.

2. Vitamin E was ended 1 month before because it thins the blood.

3. Omega-3 fatty acids were ended 14 days before.

4. Any anti-inflammatory prescription medication or over the counter anti-inflammatory must be ended 14 days before. This includes all aspirin and ibuprofen.

5. I was able to take a multi-vitamin up to 3 days in advance of the surgery.

6. I was encouraged to take an iron supplement for the two weeks before and after surgery. Click here to see an iron supplement which also has vitamin C . Iron supplements can be hard to digest but this product is not.

After surgery the doctors want my blood to be thinned to prevent blood clots. I have to take a prescription blood thinner for two weeks following surgery and wear surgical stockings (ugly support hose) to prevent blood clots. There are numerous supplements you must NOT take while on the blood thinners. Some supplements including vitamin K (Potassium) counteract the thinners so you CANNOT take them. Most multivitamins contain vitamin K. Some supplements may increase blood thinning too much. My doctor gave me a list but I wanted to make sure I did not take any supplement which may cause risk to my health. Click here to find out what supplements conflict with you medication. Just type in your medication and it will give you a list of supplements you should not take with your medication. Again, integrity is our focus. There are many companies who do not have this integrity and do not provide this information.

Click on any of the supplements on the following list of supplements I am using post surgery:
1. Iron plus C
2. Immune Support
3. Probiotic (healthy flora)
4. Vitamin C
5. Protein Shake
6. Omega Fatty Acids
7. B Complex

Perserve or Should I Just Say PAIN!

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:12:00 +0000

Yesterday was very much a day of contrasts. The day started off with achievement and disbelief of the ease of my progress. Part might have been due to my preparation but I attribute most of this early success to advances in surgical procedures. The physical therapist came to get me up on crutches and I was able to walk close to 600 feet by the end of the day. I was actually encouraged to put as much weight on my leg as I could tolerate. The biggest challenges were the weakness in my knee and my fear of pain. Later in the day the occupational therapist came to make sure I could take care of myself when I get home. Putting on socks, and figuring out how to get into a bathtub to take a shower were just a couple of the tasks I needed to master. I did so with confidence.

My confidence was short lived. Pain blind-sided me. It was like getting hit by Chance Sumner or Brian Kirkland (Quad Rugby Super Stars). This sudden PAIN is attributed to the affects of the femoral block wearing off. Patients are instructed to rate PAIN on a scale of 1 to 10. When PAIN gets to be a 3 you are supposed to request PAIN meds. With the sudden onset I went from 3 to about 15 in about 20 minutes. It takes about 45 minutes for the meds to kick in. When you take PAIN meds at level 3 you are able to keep up with the PAIN. When you don’t take the pills until you get to 10 then

It is like falling behind by 3 touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Let’s just say I finally caught up but had to go into quadruple overtime to claim victory over the PAIN.

Things were much better today, even though I experienced one of those de-humanizing events. The occupational therapist who showed up was a very attractive/cute 20 something year old. Her task was to make sure I could take a shower on my own. Thank god I am happily married and in my late forties. Let’s just say that darn hospital gown gave the OT a show. I hope I didn’t scar her for life. Things eventually got better and I got my walking papers. Yes can you believe I am sitting in my own recliner in my own house.

Anyone want to start a pool on when I will start getting on my wife’s nerves.

More tomorrow.

Preparation and Dedication Payoff

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:15:00 +0000

My morning started early as the alarm rang out at 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2008. As I crawled out of bed and headed to the kitchen I remembered I could not have anything to drink or eat. I would have to live without the quenching glass of water and fix of caffeine until sometime after my surgery. Directions said I could not have any food 12 hours before surgery and no drink after midnight. I redirected myself towards the bathroom to shave shower and brush my teeth without swallowing any water. The scariest part of the morning, including the actual operation, was waking my wife at 5:15 a.m. The mistake of the day was not getting her up in time to enjoy her cup of coffee.

After being admonished for my poor judgment, we were off to the hospital. Thirty minutes later we arrived at Porter Hospital. Wow, Porter is like checking into a hotel, not a hospital. Very modern and it does not smell like a hospital. After checking in and waiting for a brief time, I was off to the pre-op area. Here I was reintroduced to the wonderful hospital gown. The hospital gown has not changed a bit. You would think with someone would event something better after all of these years. We can send messages email and text message through the air but not figure out how to properly cover the human buttocks. Modern advances in medicine would eventually be the theme of the day.

Next came the fun stuff. A very friendly pre-op nurse made me feel as comfortable as possible as she found a vain to put a IV in. As my leg was being shaved and washed the anesthesiologist, Doctor Nightingale, explained my options. He said a nerve block was the usual practice. The inject the leg at the hip first then later make an injection in the lower spine which blocks your nerves. They would also give me something that would put me to sleep. General anesthesia would not be used. I have had numerous operations and all have been with general anesthesia. General anesthesia is much harder on your body, organs and brain. You are usually unconscious and or groggy for hours after surgery. I just wanted to make sure I would not here, see or smell any part of the drilling, cutting etc.

I was wheeled to the operating room which is kept at a very cool temperature to reduce germs. I was quickly covered by a preheated blanket and transferred onto the operation table. I heard someone mention the procedure would be video recorded. I was given some type of injection in the IV in my arm which would make me relaxed and sleepy. I was sat up on the side of the table and was told to lean on the nurse. A needle injected something into my lower back and the next thing I remember was waking up in the recovery room. I was surprised how quickly I regained my senses. I soon realized I could not feel anything below my waist. NO PAIN! I was a little worried that I could not feel my male parts so I used my hand to see if it was all there. To my relief it was and still is there. I did find the dreaded catheter attached. This is one of the parts of surgery that is quite de-humanizing. You definitely have to check your ego at the door.

Surgery was scheduled to take about 90 minutes but I was to extend this time by 45 minutes. I always do things big! I had lost more movement in my knee than most people so I was told it took longer to “loosen things up”. My orthopedic surgeon, Douglas Dennis told me he appreciated challenge. I did put him behind schedule though. I think he had 3 other joint replacements on his schedule for the day. One before me and a couple after. This is a light day for him. Dr. Dennis is headed to Panama where he and his team will perform 70 plus joint replacements in 3 days for individuals who do not have access to these procedures normally.

Surgery started at about 9:15 a.m. and when I woke up it was about 12:00 p.m. and I was in the recovery room. I was taken up to my permanent room by 1:00 p.m. No nausea and NO PAIN! This was the result of not using the general anesthesia. The “block” would keep the pain away through the night. I was able to eat dinner and actually stand up with a walker by evening. In between I had a perpetual motion machine which would bend and straighten my knee. Again there was no pain. The machine was removed when the physical therapist came to show me exercises and stand me up.

Again, Porter is more like a hotel than a hospital. They provide room service. They actually have a menu with good food which you can order from anytime between 7:00a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Salmon with veggies, rice, a salad and carrot cake. I was actually hungry again before 7:00 p.m. so I was able to order a turkey sandwich which was also good. Breakfast was ok but the coffee was terrible! Luckily my wife Cherlyn brought me some Starbucks.

Physical therapist showed up early Thursday morning to get me up on a walker. I was able to put quite a bit of weight on my leg with only moderate pain. I did take some percusets before therapy began. I was able to walk 300 feet. The PT said I did better than most. I would graduate to forearm crutches in the afternoon. I also had an occupational therapist show me things I will need when I get home. Most of this I had previous experience with so I did not really learn anything new. We did make sure I could get down and up from the toilet and later I practiced transferring onto a shower bench in the bathtub. I am supposed to go home tomorrow. The pain pills are kicking in so until tomorrow…

A new Knee

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 04:48:00 +0000

In the next couple of weeks I will be sharing my experience with knee replacement surgery. You may wonder what this has to do with athletic excellence and promoting integrity in sports nutrition.

Let me tell you a little about myself and maybe you will see the connection.

I have lived with the challenges of rheumatoid arthritis for 46 plus years. I have never let the arthritis limit me. I have been a coach as well as an athlete. For 10 years I competed on the international level in the sport of quad (wheelchair) rugby. You may know this sport from the movie Murderball. I experienced firsthand the preparation, dedication and perseverance needed to successful achieve a goal. For knee replacement surgery to be successful, I will need all three.

Preparation

Just like any athletic endeavor, you must prepare for knee replacement surgery. Doctor diagnosis came first. After that there was the approval of my health insurance company and figuring out what expenses I will have to cover myself. Every doctor appointment comes with $30 co-pay and I must pay a $350 co-pay to be admitted into the hospital. I cannot forget the preparations at work and with the business my wife and I own. At work I had to apply for FMLA leave and plan who was going to cover my duties while gone.

There has also been physical preparation. My workouts have been focused on building upper body strength and core strength to enable me to use crutches. I did a lot of accent and descent of stairs using forearm crutches. This actually gives a good core workout because it requires the use of core muscles to keep your balance. Try balancing while only placing weight on one leg and two crutches.

You also use your lats, pecs, traps, triceps and biceps. Nutrition has been very important too. I had to maintain lean muscle mass without putting on any extra weight. Good body chemistry has been a must. Supplements and diet must prepare the body for stresses put on the body. Supplementation must also help keep my immune system strong. I will include information on specific supplements I use in future updates.

I am about 12 hours away from surgery as I write this. I have had numerous surgical procedures so I have a lot experience. I am not sure if this experience makes me any less apprehensive. I don’t have fear of the unknown but my memory serves me to well. I remember the needles, tubes, bandages, medications and pain. I also remember all of the dehumanizing things like hospital gowns, eating hospital food, sleeping in a hospital room and being totally dependent on others.

I am confident that it will all have a successful outcome. Join me in my adventure the next 6 weeks. I will make updates when I able.

New Concerns about the Safety of Bisphenol A (BPA)

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 19:31:00 +0000

Recent JAMA Study Findings Raise New Concerns
about the Safety of Bisphenol A (BPA)

You may have heard about the potential harmful effects of BPA, a chemical modifier commonly used in some plastic containers and the linings of some canned foods. Now, a new study published in the Sept. 17, 2008, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) highlights BPA’s potential health risks, reaffirming the importance of Shaklee’s commitment to BPA-free packaging as a part of our longtime emphasis on consumer safety.

British researchers Lang and colleagues report the results of the first major epidemiologic study to examine the health effects associated with BPA and show that higher urine BPA levels are correlated with higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease, heart attack, and angina), diabetes, and liver enzyme abnormalities. The cross-sectional study of 1,455 adults, intended to be representative of the adult U.S. population, found double the normal risk for heart disease and diabetes, but also discovered no association with any other health effects. The investigators also indicate that these findings add to the evidence suggesting adverse effects of low-dose BPA on animals but emphasize that independent replication and follow-up studies are needed to confirm both the findings and whether the associations are causal.¹ An accompanying editorial also suggests that U.S. regulatory agencies should follow recent Canadian government decisions and require aggressive action to reduce human and environmetal exposures to BPA.^2,3

In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published results that BPA had been detected in the urine of nearly 93% of those tested, a finding indicating widespread exposure to BPA in the U.S. population. This analysis looked at urine samples obtained from 2,517 people ages 6 and older who took part in CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2003 and 2004. Females had higher levels than males, and children had the highest levels, followed by teens and adults.⁴

Common Exposures from BPA

BPA is a chemical produced in large quantities primarily for use in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate plastics typically are clear and hard and have many applications, including use in certain food and beverage packaging such as water and infant bottles, as well as compact discs, impact-resistant safety equipment, and medical devices.

According to the CDC, about 7 billion pounds of BPA are produced worldwide each year, and the Centers’ analyses have found that 93% of Americans have detectable levels in their urine.^4,5,6 Animal studies have linked high levels of BPA to increased risk for diabetes, brain damage, developmental abnormalities, certain precancerous changes, and a variety of other health problems.^{7, 8, 9} The cause of the increased risk has not been fully determined, but various theories include BPA’s potential action as a hormone disruptor or modulator.^{4, 9}

Two studies conducted earlier this year provided possible explanations of the recent findings published in JAMA. In April, Spanish researchers reported that BPA caused pancreatic cells to increase their production of insulin in mice, leading to insulin resistance, a precursor of diabetes.¹⁰ A separate study at the University of Cincinnati showed BPA inhibits the release of a key biochemical that protects humans from metabolic syndrome, a collection of health risks that increase a person’s chances of developing heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.¹¹

Government Positions on BPA Safety

The FDA has long argued that there is an existing margin of safety that is adequate to protect consumers—including infants and children—at the current levels of exposure. However, others point out that the FDA’s conclusions are based on selected studies and don’t adequately consider studies that found adverse effects.⁹ Earlier this year, the National Toxicology Program explained in a preliminary report there was some concern that the chemical posed a risk to fetuses, babies, and children, as emphasized in this latest JAMA study.¹² Specifically, researchers and public health activists also are calling upon the U.S. government to consider alignment to a recent action by the Canadian National Public Health Agency, which in May 2008 released a report calling BPA a potentially harmful chemical.

Reducing Exposure to Harmful BPA

Although there are no official recommendations for reduced exposure levels set by leading public health organizations, there are important steps consumers can take to minimize BPA exposure. The following are a number of simple suggestions to help you reduce your BPA exposure and are based on recommendations from the Environmental Working Group (EWG).^{13, 14}

Basic Tips to Reduce Exposure to and Intake of BPA

• Avoid Reusable Polycarbonate (labeled #7) Plastic Water and Baby Bottles. As a general rule, avoid water bottles and baby bottles labeled #7, which tend to be hard and clear. Many reusable water bottles are made of polycarbonate plastic—including many of the popular colorful plastic water bottles—that leaches BPA into the water. Choose polyethylene or unlined aluminum bottles instead. Use glass baby bottles instead of plastic, and always discard damaged plastic containers. These are better choices for you, your family, and the planet.
• Avoid Polycarbonate Plastic Food Containers and Tableware. These may also be labeled “PC” underneath a plastic code #7 in the recycling triangle on the bottom of the container. Representing a better choice are usually the BPA-free plastics with the recycling labels #1, #2, or #4 and #5. Be aware that BPA can leach from the plastic into foods and beverages, especially when the material is heated or used for long periods of time. Opt for ceramic, glass, or other microwavable dishware. Soft or cloudy-colored plastic containers do not contain BPA.
• Minimize the Use of Canned Foods and Canned Drinks. Until industry reformulates the lacquer lining of metal cans, limit your consumption of certain canned foods such as tomato sauces because the high acidity causes more of the chemical to leach from the lining of the can. Choose fresh or frozen foods or those in glass containers or bottles. The recent study by EWG found BPA in more than half of the 97 cans of brand-name fruit, vegetables, soda, and other common canned goods that were tested.
• Ask your Dentist for BPA-Free Sealants and Composite Fillings. Some dental resins are free of, or low in BPA. Ask your dentist if he or she knows about BPA and ask him or her to use low- or no-BPA dental compounds.
• Avoid microwaving or heating any food in plastic containers or canned food. Heating any plastic materials may release plastic modifiers directly into food.

Be well!

Dr. Jamie McManus, M.D., FAAFP
Chairman, Medical Affairs, Health Sciences & Education

References:
1. Lang IA et al., Association of Urinary Bisphenol a Concentration with Medical Disorders and Laboratory Abnormalities in Adults, JAMA. 2008; 300(11):1303-1310. 2. Vom Saal FS et al. Bisphenol A and Risk of Metabolic Disorders. JAMA. 2008; 300(11): 1353-1355. Published online Sept. 16, 2008 (doi:10.1001/jama.300.11.1353). 3. Environment Canada. Draft Screening Assessment for The Challenge: Phenol, 4, 4’-(1-methylethylidene) bis-(Bisphenol A). Chemical Abstracts Service Registry No. 80-05-7. Environment Canada Web site at http://www.ec.gc.ca/substances/ese/eng/challenge/batch2/batch2_80-05-7.cfm. 20084. 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data 2003-04. Hyattsville, MD: U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, CDC; 2007 and special CDC Fact Sheet, May 2008. 5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Third National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals. Atlanta, GA: CDC; 2005. 6. Calafat AM et al. Exposure of the U.S. population to bisphenol A and 4-tertiary-octylphenol: 2003-04. Environ Health Perspect. 2008; 116(1):39-44. 7. Richter CA, et al. In vivo effects of bisphenol A in laboratory rodent studies. Reprod Toxicol. 2007; 24(2):199-224. 8. Wetherill YB et al. In vitro molecular mechanisms of bisphenol A action. Reprod Toxicol. 2007; 24(2):178-198. 9. Environmental California. Bisphenol A Overview. At www.environmentalcalifornia.org., accessed 9/08. 10. Ropero AB et al, Bisphenol-A disruption of the endocrine pancreas and blood glucose homeostasis. Int J Androl. 2008 Apr; 31(2):194-200. Epub 2007 Oct 31. 11. Eric R. Hugo et al, Bisphenol A at Environmentally Relevant Doses Inhibits Adiponectin Releasefrom Human Adipose Tissue Explants and Adipocytes. Environ Health Perspect doi:10.1289/ehp.
11537 available via http://dx.doi.org/ [Online 14 August 2008]. 12. National Toxicology Program (NTP). Draft NTP brief on bisphenol A. NTP Web site. http://cerhr.niehs.nih.gov/chemicals/bisphenol/BPADraftBriefVF_04_14_08.pdf. April 14, 2008. Accessed July 5, 2008. 13. Oregon Environmental Council at http://www.oeconline.org/our-work/kidshealth/pollutioninpeople/solutions/bpa. 14. Environmental Working Group (EWG).Review more specifics at website of the Washington, D.C.-based Environmetal Working Group at http://www.ewg.org/reports/bisphenola , A Survey of Bisphenol A in US Canned Foods, March 2007.

YouTube - Wassup 8 years later

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 23:40:00 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxExxkWQOlU

Strength Bulk and Recovery

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 23:44:00 +0000

Dr. Bruce Miller is a member of the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine, Charter Member of the Aerobics Activity, Center, founder of the Diet Analysis Center, founder of the publication HealthQuest and author of twenty books and videos on nutrition, including “lower Your Cholesterol in 30 Days”.

There Are Three Phases to Building a Muscle

Catabolic: You work out the muscle and break down the fibers.
Recovery: Glucose and amino acids pump into muscle.
Anabolic: Using glucose and amino acids, the muscle rebuilds stronger and larger.

Some Use Steroids to Speed the Three Phases

MINOR SIDE EFFECTS INCLUDE: personality changes, sleep disturbances, acne, masculinization for women, breasts for men, and growth reduction for adolescents.

MAJOR SIDE EFFECTS INCLUDE: cholesterol imbalance, liver tumors, hepatitis, and leukemia.

Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to move from catabolism into recovery and muscle/bulk building quickly without the side effects of steroids? You will see a product that does just this after we tell the whole story.

THE WHOLE STORY
1. The muscle cell worked out and is tired. It needs glucose and amino acids to recover and build. 2. Insulin is the main muscle building hormone in the body. It opens the “cell door” to let in all of the nutrients the cell needs. 3. Every door needs a door knob (insulin receptor). The knob is chromium. 4. Once the door is opened a quality mix of glucose, branched chain amino acids, and the rest of the essential amino acids must be available for maximum muscle building bulk, and recovery.

WE NEED TO THOROUGHLY UNDERSTAND THREE THINGS
1. Insulin (door opener)
2. Chromium (door knob)
3. The three branched chain amino acids (primary builders).

INSULIN

1. The pancreas needs to be stimulated to produce insulin
2. The main stimulators are:
a. Glucose, the final breakdown product of any carbohydrate.
b. The branched chain amino acids (valine, leucine, and isoleucine).
c. The proper ratio of carbohydrate and protein. Divide the carbohydrate in a product by protein content. A ratio of 2.7 gives excellent insulin stimulation. Look for this ratio in any product you buy.
3. Click here for a product with unique quantity, quality, and ratio of these stimulators resulting in maximum production of the primary strength hormone!

CHROMIUM

1. No matter how much muscle building hormone (door opener) you have available…
No door knob (chromium), no entry.
2. The U.S. Department of Agriculture tells us that 90% of Americans consume diets low in chromium. Athletes use up chromium at a high rate, so they are at extreme risk.
3. There are a number of chromium supplements in various muscle building products, and they work to varying degrees.
Chromic Chloride – Extremely poor utilization
Chromic Acetate – Poor utilization
Chromium Tripicolinate – Some utilization
Chromium Picolinate – Fair utilization
Chromium Nicotinate – Excellent utilization
Click here for the only drink I have found on the market that contains chromium nicotinate!

HOW INSULIN AND CHROMIUM HELP BUILD MUSCLE
Increased uptake of amino acids…both speed and number
Increased assembly of amino acids into muscle protein.

From a sports text: “Insulin’s participation in protein synthesis, or anabolism, is not limited to bringing raw materials into the muscle cell. It also promotes the assembly of amino acids into protein through it effect on the cell’s genetic material, DNA and RNA (similar to the steroids). The net effect of all of this is increased protein available for building muscle tissue. Ten combined with resistance exercise, this results in more muscle development and fat loss. Insulin is the body’s primary anabolic hormone. Testosterone, the substance from which anabolic steroids are derived, does have anabolic effects, but they are secondary to those of insulin.”

THE THREE BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACIDS 9BCAAS)
PLUS THE OTHER 6 ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS

1. Do not buy a muscle building product based on the number of grams of protein. Look at the BCAAs: valine, leucine, and isolleucine.
2. The muscle is 35% BCAAs which are broken down rapidly during a workout.
3. After a workout, the muscle is starved for the BCAAs which also pull in the other 6 essential amino acids needed to build muscle and aid in recovery. The other 6 “spare” or protect the BCAAs.
4. In the first 3 hours after a workout, the BCAAs account for 50% of the total amino acid uptake. That is why you consume a power drink immediately after a workout and then again within 2 hours.
5. This power drink’s amino acids profile is unique:
 There are 10,000mg of essential amino acids in serving
 An astounding 44% of these are BCAAs.
 I know of no other drink with that profile.

From a sports text: “For the athlete, the BCAAs have great promise. They can be used to actually produce better performance. In fact, they are similar to anabolic steroids in their effects on athletic performance, but they have none of the side effects associated with steroids. Besides their tissue sparing properties, they have potent anabolic (building) qualities, and they yield metabolic by-products that boost your energy production for long term sports activities.”

Wheelchair Rugby Team Finds Redemption

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:31:00 +0000

2008 PARALYMPIC GAMES: U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team Finds Redemption in Beijing; Wins Gold Medal with 53-44 Defeat of Australia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 16, 2008

BEIJING, China –The U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team had to wait four long years for another shot at the gold medal that eluded the team in Athens. On Tuesday night in Beijing, the U.S. seized its opportunity by defeating Australia, 53-44, to be crowned Paralympic champions.

"It’s just an awesome feeling to be up on that medal stand and hearing the national anthem. I've been playing on the U.S. team for 10 years and this is hands down the best team I've played on," said U.S. co-captain Norm Lyduch (Austin, Texas). "We never backed down and always played together as a team."

Australia, led by 19 year old wonder-kid Ryley Batt, pushed the U.S. for nearly three quarters as both teams traded goals and turnovers. Back-to-back turnovers by Australia with five minutes to go in the third helped Team USA open a three goal lead, and from then on the U.S. took complete control.

By the end of the third quarter, the Americans had a five goal advantage, 36-31, and in the final eight minutes hammered their point home for the nine goal win.

“It’s emotional. We’ve been waiting on this for four years. Our team was on a mission. We set a game plan and stuck to it and now we’re gold medalists,” said team co-captain Bryan Kirkland (Leeds, Ala.).

Team USA was led by Will Groulx (Portland, Ore.) with 15 goals, Kirkland with 13 goals and Andy Cohn (Tempe, Ariz.) with 10 goals. Batt scored an unbelievable 23 goals for Australia, accounting for more than half his team’s points.

“I’m so proud of everyone – the staff, the coaches, my teammates,” said Cohn. “We have trained and prepared for this since the day we left Athens four years ago. Every time Australia got close, we turned it up and just crushed it. It’s an amazing feeling to win a gold medal.”

Wheelchair Rugby's Greatest Rivals

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:50:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 14, 2008

BEIJING, China –Wheelchair rugby’s greatest rivals took to the court on Sunday before a packed house at the University of Science & Technology of Beijing Gymnasium. This was only a preliminary round match-up, but the intensity between the U.S. and Canada was felt all the way up to the rafters. On the court, the U.S. used its speed and depth to overtake Canada, 37-32, and finish pool play undefeated. The win also secured a berth in the semifinals for Team USA.

“We knew coming into this game it was going to be a great battle,” said U.S. head coach James Gumbert (Austin, Texas). “We had great transition in between the whistles and our guys came out with the most energy they’ve had so far in this tournament.”

The first quarter ended in an 11-11 tie, but strong pressure defense from the U.S. in the second forced Canada to make some mistakes and the Americans took a 24-21 lead into halftime. Canada attempted to stall, literally, the U.S. momentum coming out of the break. The Canadians held the ball for the first four minutes and 18 seconds of the third quarter before finally scoring a goal.

The stall tactics were no match for an endless rotation of U.S. line-ups that Scott Hogsett (Phoenix, Ariz.) said helped keep up the pace when Canada tried to slow the tempo.

“Our team is so deep, we can bring anyone off the bench to help get us fired up at any time, regardless of what our opponent is trying to do,” said Hogsett. “When you have fresh bodies to rotate into the game, it helps keep up the intensity and energy through the course of a game.”

Keyed by two big turnovers late in the third, the U.S. headed into the final eight minutes with a five goal lead and never let Canada any closer. Team USA’s offense was led by Will Groulx (Portland, Ore.) and Joel Wilmoth with seven goals each. Seth McBride (Portland, Ore./Juneau, Alaska) scored six goals and Nick Springer (St. Petersburg, Fla./New York, N.Y.) and Andy Cohn (Tempe, Ariz.) chipped in with five goals apiece.

“We are completely together as a team,” said Wilmoth. “A big key to our success is knowing that you have the trust of each of your teammates every second you’re out on the court. This win certainly builds momentum for us, but we know with each game we win people are going to be gunning for us even more.”

The U.S. faces Great Britain in the semifinals on Monday, Sept. 15, at 6:00 p.m. at the University of Science & Technology of Beijing Gymnasium.

Victory Over Japan

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 18:09:00 +0000

September 13, 2008

BEIJING, China –The U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team withstood a furious fight from Japan on Saturday to secure its second victory of the preliminary round, 44-37. The win locked up a spot in the medal round for Team USA.

The Americans’ pressure defense put Japan on its heels from the start. Three turnovers by the Japanese in the first quarter gave the U.S. a three goal lead, which it held onto throughout the first half and into the start of the fourth quarter. The quarter began with Team USA leading 31-28, but a turnover and ensuing score by Japan narrowed the gap to just two goals.

“We knew Japan was going to be fighting like dogs,” said Andy Cohn (Tempe, Ariz.). “We jumped them early and then relaxed a little bit. It’s a good lesson for us that you can’t relax at the big tournaments.”

The U.S. didn’t relax for long. That one mistake seemed to kick the team’s intensity to a higher gear and the Americans responded by forcing four turnovers in the quarter, three of which came in the last two and half minutes.

“This team does a great job of supporting each other when we make mistakes,” said co-captain Bryan Kirkland (Leeds, Ala.). “We kept our composure, didn’t get down and just kept playing.”

Will Groulx (Portland, Ore.) led the U.S. with 12 goals and four steals, while Kirkland pitched in 11 goals and four assists. Also getting on the board were Mark Zupan (Austin, Texas) with seven goals, Nick Springer (St. Petersburg, Fla./New York, N.Y.) and Cohn with five goals each and Joel Wilmoth (Hueytown, Ala.) with four goals.

“Our team’s biggest asset is that we’re 11 strong, we’re not just one guy or one line-up,” said U.S. head coach James Gumbert (Austin, Texas). “No matter what four we put on the floor today, they fought. They played with heart and intensity and never gave up on any play.”

The U.S. wraps up pool play against archrival Canada on Sunday, Sept. 14, at 3:00 p.m. at the Beijing Science & Technology University Gymnasium. Four years ago at the Athens Paralympics, Canada defeated the United States in the semifinals, knocking the Americans out of contention for the gold medal and the U.S. finished with bronze.

Chance Scores 12 Times

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:58:00 +0000

BEIJING, China –Four years ago, the U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team didn’t win gold at the Paralympic Games for the first time ever. On Friday, the team began its journey back to the top of the medal podium with a dominating, 65-30, victory over China.

“We’ve been chomping at the bit to take the court and it felt great out there,” said Will Groulx (Portland, Ore.). “We set some goals for ourselves and did a nice job working on the parts of our game that we felt needed some improvement.”

The Americans owned every aspect of the game, scoring at will and forcing China to commit 33 turnovers. Conversely, the U.S. only committed one turnover the entire game. Team USA was led by Groulx with 16 goals, Chance Sumner (Denver, Colo.) with 12 goals and Mark Zupan (Austin, Texas) with 11 goals.

“This is my first Paralympic Games and finally getting on the court and playing in a game was just awesome,” said Sumner. “The crowd was great, there was a lot of energy out there and we can’t wait to take the next step on Saturday against Japan.”

The U.S. continues pool play against Japan on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 3:00 p.m. at the Beijing Science & Technology University Gymnasium.

"Redeem Team" in Beijing

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 23:28:00 +0000

September 11, 2008

2008 PARALYMPIC GAMES: U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team the New “Redeem Team” in Beijing

BEIJING, China - As documented in the Academy Award nominated film, Murderball, the U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team was heavily favored heading into the 2004 Paralympic Games, but was upset by Canada in the semifinals and had to settle for bronze. The U.S. regained its international status in 2006, going 17-0 en route to the gold medal at the World Wheelchair Rugby Championships that year and the team is looking to build on that success and return to the top of the podium in Beijing.

“We redeemed ourselves to an extent by winning worlds in 2006,” said Scott Hogsett (Phoenix, Ariz.). “But, we haven’t completely gotten rid of our demons. We won’t be fulfilled until we win gold at the Paralympics.”

A core group of athletes from the Athens team returns to represent the U.S. in 2008. The experience they gained there, as well as at the World Championships, is one thing Team USA will rely on to help recapture the gold.

Those veterans include Hogsett, Mark Zupan (Austin, Texas), Bryan Kirkland (Leeds, Ala.), Norm Lyduch (Austin, Texas), Andy Cohn (Tempe, Ariz.) and Will Groulx (Portland, Ore.). Kirkland and Lyduch are the most senior members of the squad with both having played in the previous two Paralympic Games. Cohn and Groulx each made their Games debut in Athens, but have grown to be great leaders of the U.S. team and are likely to be big contributors here in Beijing.

“We’ve been waiting for this opportunity for four years and we’re ready to prove what happened in Athens was a fluke,” said Kirkland. “We’re not a team that’s arrogant or cocky, but we have a lot of confidence in our abilities. This is the best team I’ve ever played on.”

This isn’t just a team of seasoned veterans. There is much youthful exuberance on its side, as well. Five athletes – Seth McBride (Juneau, Alaska), Jason Regier (Denver, Colo.), Nick Springer (St. Petersburg, Fla./New York, N.Y.), Chance Sumner (Denver, Colo.) and Joel Wilmoth (Hueytown, Ala.) – will be competing in their first Paralympic Games. Wilmoth, at age 19, is the youngest of all team members and with his strength and size is also considered one of the sport’s fastest rising stars.

“We’ve been here for a week training and getting ready to play,” said Wilmoth. “We’re excited and completely prepared for anything anybody throws at us. We’re taking this tournament one game at time, one minute at a time.”

The U.S. begins pool play against host country China at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Beijing Science & Technology University Gymnasium.

This article can be found on www.quadrugby.com

Sports Drinks - Who are they Really For?

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 01:19:00 +0000

There are articles every day about sports drinks in schools, children drinking them in class, high school kids and college aged adults drinking them by the gallon, being offered in vending machines on school grounds, being the drink of choice, being a "fad" drink...

Sports drinks are for athletes who are exerting themselves beyond measure!

Sports drinks are NOT for students who are sitting in study hall or classes doing lessons!

Sports drinks are supposed to be full of calories and carbohydrates! Calories and carbohydrates are essential when you're burning them. When you are sitting in class at school you need brain food, NOT muscle food.

Brain food consists of, but is not limited to: Vitamin B complex (don't let anyone tell you to get an unbalanced vitamin B... B vitamins MUST be balanced), Vitamin E, Selenium and Lecithin.

Calories and carbs are NOT in the list! The powerhouse sports nutrition manufacturers may be getting a piece of the schoolhouse market, but the powerhouse sports nutrition manufacturers don't care about your health, and they certainly don't care about your athletic dreams.

When you drink a sports drink inappropriately, you are compounding tooth decay, you are compounding your possibility of high blood pressure, you are compounding your likeliness of diabetes, your are compounding your chances of heart disease and obesity, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression and.... do you really want to wait to see what next year's scientific tests come up with? Or maybe you want to wait for ten years.

If you're not running yourself silly... why are you drinking a SPORTS drink?

Sports drinks are for athletes. Not for some fad that makes the fat cats rich.

Should Drinks Like Gatorade Sport the 'Junk Food' Label?

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:34:00 +0000

"Public health advocates want the standards to ban the sale of Gatorade and Powerade, which typically contain as much as two-thirds the sugar of sodas and more sodium, as well as sweetened waters such as VitaminWater and SoBe Life Water. Excessive sodium intake by young people could fuel a surge in high blood pressure, which until recently was considered a health threat only in later life, they said." Source

Sports drinks are intended to help the athlete perform. To have these available on school grounds, in vending machines, for kids to drink while they sit through their classes is not the optimal atmosphere for these products.

When manufacturers claim that the lower caloric value is "good" for kids, they are purposely ignoring the other elements of "sports drinks". They are purposely attempting to attract a market that isn't suitable for the product... And they're succeeding.

View this comparison of sports drinks, by the University of Arizona.

See previous post

Enhanced Water - Questionable

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 21:10:00 +0000

"Bottled water, one of the most popular beverages on the market, now comes purified, remineralized, electrolyte-enhanced and infused with vitamins, minerals, herbs and oxygen. Are these souped-up products worth it? Or are you better off sipping a glass of Emergen-C?

We asked several registered dietitians, who agreed that the health claims for enhanced waters are "iffy" and that food is a far better source of nutrients. Consumers, meanwhile, should watch out for added sweeteners and calories.

"None of the ingredients are harmful," said Kris Clark, director of sports nutrition and assistant professor of nutrition at Penn State University. "The question consumers should ask themselves include: Are the ingredients useful to me? Do I need these ingredients? Or do I just need water?"

Chances are, you just need plain old water."

Quoted from the Chicagotribune.com

Watch the claims, watch the ingredients.

Nandrolone explained

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:26:00 +0000

"Tennis player Greg Rusedski tested positive for the banned substance nandrolone, but was found not guity of doping.

So what is nandrolone, and how is it detected in the human body?

Are tests for nandrolone conclusive?

Even though a drug test may indicate that the subject has apparently taken nandrolone to boost muscle growth and increase strength, this does not necessarily prove wrongdoing.

It is possible that the body may naturally create a form of nandrolone, particularly if the subject has eaten large quantities of meat contaminated with the substance.

Certain animals may create a bigger risk, particularly horse and boar - and athletes are warned to avoid offal from these animals."

Taken from Source

Nandrolone is used to stimulate bone marrow production and muscle building in animals. It is a veterinary medicine that you may be consuming unknowingly.

This is simply more evidence in favor of the organic/free-range food industry.

Water - Friend or Foe?

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 16:57:00 +0000

"Fluoride is a known toxin, slightly less toxic than arsenic and more poisonous than lead. The industrial chemicals used to fluoridate over 90 percent of fluoridated water in the United States, (fluorosilicate acid and sodium silicofluoride), are by-products of the phosphate fertilizer industry and have never been tested for safety or effectiveness. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA), has declared the substance to be a hazardous waste and made it illegal to dump at sea." Source

Fluoride is a micronutrient. We need a minuscule amount to achieve the benefits we're looking for.

Large amounts of fluoride is used to kill rodents. This is why fluoride is categorized in the medical world as a poison. Too much fluoride intake by humans cause the bones to become brittle and less fracture-resistant because this is where excess fluoride in the body accumulates.

Other known side effects of fluoride over-dose:
1 - Disrupts the synthesis of collagen.
2 - Leads to breakdown in the bone, tendon, skin, cartilage, lungs, trachea, and kidney.
3 - Inhibits the formation of antibodies in the blood.
4 - Has a disruptive effect on various tissues in the body.
5 - Confuses the immune system causing it to attack its own tissues.

Water is essential to the serious athlete... Good quality water with no harmful additives is what is essential to the serious athlete.

Sports drinks, lots of sugar, salt

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:21:00 +0000

"The growing share of so-called sports drinks are little more than sugar water with added salt, said Margo G. Wootan, director of nutrition policy at the Center for Science in the Public Interest in Washington." Read more...

My dentist and I recently had a discussion on this topic. The majority of tooth decay in kids these days is due to sports drinks. Many sports drinks have more sugar content than soda, which contributes to tooth decay. But what's more, these kids sip on sports drinks all day, meaning their teeth don't get a break from the sugary liquid.

Sports drinks are intended to be ingested after a long workout, not during study hall.

Bodies of Water

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 22:43:00 +0000

Curt's wife wrote the following. Even though she is not at all athletic (in any way, shape or form), I think she wrote something that is very appropriate for "The Starting Blocks".

People have different percentages of water in their bodies
depending on age, gender and diet.

New born babies are comprised of the largest percentage
of water, at about 78%. By one year of age, that amount
reduces to about 65%.

Adult men have an average of 60% of water in their bodies.

Adult women carry about 55%.

Fat tissue does not hold as much water as lean tissue. So
the more overweight a person is, the less water they are
comprised of.

Even an average percentage of water in the body should cause concern over water quality issues. If you have 55% water in your body wouldn't you want it to be as pure as possible?

How much good, pure, non-contaminated water does an athlete need?

"Water is the most neglected nutrient in your diet but one of the most vital." - Kelly Barton

More Recalls

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:25:00 +0000

US, Canadian pork rejected

So, is this a pissing contest? Are we going to see which country has the most recalled products? Maybe Las Vegas can start taking bets on this.

The crazy part of the whole thing is that no one on this planet, doesn't matter what country they're from, wants products that are contaminated in some way. I'm not terribly sure what those growth hormones and veterinary drugs are doing in my meat.

Maybe we're trying to support bearded women?

Those growth hormones have been banned in Europe and China for quite a few years. It makes me curious as to why we haven't banned them here.

Veterinary drugs? I'm in the doghouse often (the cost of being married), but I'm fairly sure I don't need the same medications a dog needs.

Athletes need the best quality food we can get. Eating residue from animal growth hormone and veterinary drugs is not my idea of "quality food".

Rising Star - Jason Regier

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:51:00 +0000

Jason Regier is another quad rugby player (aka murderball). He is an exceptional picker and really shines on the court. He is one the elite players who will be seen in Beijing next summer.

We can give Jason at least partial credit for where this sport is today. His love for quad rugby not only shows on the court but also in his tireless efforts to promote it.

Murderball isn't the only movie promoting quad rugby. The Goal is a drama which highlights quad rugby in the story of one player.

If you haven't seen a quad rugby game, you're missing out!

Good luck Jason and Chance!

Recovery!

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 16:06:00 +0000

The stuff Curt is made of! Or rather, the stuff that allowed Curt to continue his sport.

After a 30 minute high-energy workout he would drink this within 5 minutes. Curt would then have a second drink 2 hours later. During tournaments, he would take this 5 minutes after each game, again 2 hours after the last game, and then again about 30 minutes before bed.

A cyclist friend of ours does the same recovery routine after cycling the Triple Bypass.

Tip: If you are looking to gain weight, a 3rd drink is recommended. If you are looking to reduce weight, or maintain your weight class, take a 3rd drink ONLY after extreme exertion.

This is also a Kosher certified product.

Shaklee Sponsors Arctic Explorer Will Steger's...

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 23:05:00 +0000

Shaklee Sponsors Arctic Explorer Will Steger's Latest Expedition on Climate Change

This is an unusual sport to list on The Starting Blocks, but extreme exploration takes the same physical, emotional and mental aspects as any serious athlete. Will Steger is one of those who speaks softly but carries a great big stick. If the political aspects of global warming don't appeal to you, Will Steger's message may.

Putting the Earth First

A Day in the Life (I personally enjoy my life of luxury too much to attempt a day in his life, but I am very glad to have him in my world)

Fuel the Expeditions

21st Century Expectations

noreply@blogger.com (The Starting Blocks) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 22:03:00 +0000

We live in a time when we seem to be responsible for the actions or neglect of others. Take this article for example. Quote: "Each swimmer is responsible for understanding what is on the banned substance list and what substances they are introducing to his/her body."

In a previous post I cited another article that reported the actions of Powerbar. They changed the formula in their bars and neglected to tell the very people who counted on their products. If the makers of Powerbar don't have a current list of banned substances, then what business do they have making sports nutrition products?

If an athlete must be intimately familiar with the list of banned substances, then common sense dictates the manufacturers should be doubly knowledgeable for the sake of the athletes they supposedly support.

Your athletic dreams, your athletic hopes, your athletic improvement depends on sports nutrition. Yet we see your athletic dreams, your athletic hopes and your athletic improvement are all absolutely meaningless in the face of $$$Profit$$$.

How careful are you about the products you are taking? How careful is the manufacturer of the products you are taking?