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In this weeks episode, we break down the science of testosterone, debunking common myths and exploring its critical role in health beyond just muscle growth.

You'll discover why this essential hormone impacts everything from metabolic health and bone density to mood regulation and cardiovascular function. Most importantly, you'll learn why our approach to testosterone therapy in modern healthcare is completely backwards—with too much focus on young men who rarely need it, and not enough attention on aging adults who could benefit tremendously.

The conversation covers fascinating insights including:

• The complete physiological pathway of testosterone production and how various lifestyle factors affect it
• Why total testosterone numbers don't tell the whole story—and what metrics actually matter
• The surprising connection between testosterone, glucose regulation, and Type 2 diabetes
• How testosterone replacement therapy can significantly improve body composition, reducing fat mass while increasing muscle mass
• The surprising truth about testosterone's effects on bone density and fracture risk
• Why the "mid-life crisis motorcycle purchase" might actually be your body's way of signaling hormonal changes
• The real facts about supposed cardiovascular risks of testosterone therapy

Whether you're experiencing unexplained fatigue, concerned about healthy aging, or simply curious about this frequently misunderstood hormone, this episode provides the scientific clarity you need without the hype.

We discuss how lifestyle interventions should always be your first approach to optimizing testosterone levels, when it may be appropriate to consider testing, and how proper hormone management could transform health outcomes for adults over 40.

Tune in for a science-based conversation that will change how you think about this crucial hormone and its role in long-term health.

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In this inspiring episode of Kickback Science, I interview Dr. Victoria Flores, a postdoctoral research associate in the Exercise Neuroscience Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois Chicago, who is helping to revolutionize how we approach multiple sclerosis treatment.

Dr. Flores reveals why exercise isn't just beneficial for MS patients—it's transformative, improving everything from mobility and strength to cognitive function and mental health in ways medication alone cannot achieve.

What you'll learn might surprise you: there are more than 2 million people worldwide living with MS, and exercise interventions are proving to be powerful tools in maintaining and even improving quality of life for these individuals.

Dr. Flores brings exceptional expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Associate specializing in exercise interventions for special populations. 

We explore critical insights about:

• The unique nature of MS and how exercise can be tailored to individual symptoms
• How physical activity helps regenerate neural connections in MS patients
• The behavioral component of exercise adherence and why it matters
• Exercise safety guidelines during MS relapses and flare-ups
• The urgent need to incorporate exercise physiologists into standard MS care

Plus, Dr. Flores discusses the exciting expansion of MS research to include previously underrepresented populations, creating more inclusive and culturally appropriate interventions.

Whether you're living with MS, know someone who is, or work in healthcare, this conversation will transform your understanding of how movement can be medicine for neurodegenerative conditions.

Don't miss this powerful exploration of how exercise is changing lives in the MS community one step—and one rep—at a time.

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In this eye-opening episode of Kickback Science, I sit down with Dr. Richard Kreider, one of the world's foremost creatine researchers, who reveals why this isn't just another supplement for gym-goers—it's a crucial nutrient for everyone from pregnant women to the elderly.

What you'll discover might shock you: creatine impacts everything from brain development and cognitive function to heart health and immune response. By the end of this conversation, you'll understand why this might be the single most important supplement you're not taking.

Dr. Kreider brings unparalleled expertise as Professor and Department Head at Texas A&M University, where he directs the Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab. With over 400 published research articles and $12 million in research funding, he's the definitive voice on how this remarkable compound affects human health.

We dive into creatine's surprising benefits for:

• Pregnancy and fetal development
• Children's growth and cognitive function
• Disease prevention including Alzheimer's and cancer
• Long COVID recovery
• Metabolic health optimization

Plus, Dr. Kreider breaks down the alarming government proposal to ban supplements for anyone under 18—revealing how this misguided policy could create widespread creatine deficiency with serious developmental consequences for an entire generation.

Whether you're an athlete, parent, healthcare professional, or simply someone who cares about optimal health—this conversation will completely transform your understanding of nutrition's role in human development.

Trust me, this is the episode that will change how you think about nutrition forever.

Want to dive deeper? Visit creatineforhealth.com for resources from Dr. Kreider, and check out the upcoming Creatine Conference 2025 in Germany where the world's top researchers gather to discuss the latest findings. 

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In this week's episode we sit down with Dr. Cody Strom PhD, an Assistant Professor at the University of Southern Indiana. Dr. Strom got his PhD in Bioenergetics and Exercise Science from East Carolina University where he studied the effects of exercise and nutrition during pregnancy. 

Join us as we explore the powerful impact of exercise during pregnancy! Learn how staying active benefits both mother and baby, from improving maternal health outcomes to programming lifelong benefits for the developing child. Dr. Strom breaks down decades of research and debunks common myths about pregnancy and exercise.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Benefits of exercise for maternal and fetal health
2. Safe exercise guidelines during pregnancy
3. Debunking common pregnancy exercise myths
4. How exercise affects infant development
5. Latest research on pregnancy and physical activity
6. Prevention of pregnancy complications through exercise
7. Building healthy habits for two
8. 
   

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In this episode we sit down with Dr. Lea Haverbeck Simon, PhD, MA, ACSM-CEP to talk about how exercise can help treat and prevent Cancer. Dr. Haverbeck-Simon is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Haverbeck-Simon has spent many years studying the impact of diet and exercise in cancer patients. 

Today we talk about cancer, and how it is not just one disease, but rather a variety of diseases that share an underlying problem. Dr. Haverbeck shares what happens to the heart, muscle, immune system, quality of life, and more when a patient develops cancer. We then discuss how exercise and diet can be used to prevent/treat various types and aspects of cancer. 

At the end of the episode, Dr. Haverbeck-Simon shares some helpful resources for those who would like to learn more about how to incorporate exercise into cancer care.

- Effects of Exercise on Health-Related Outcomes in those with Cancer: 

     ----https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/cancer-infographic-sept-2022.pdf

- American College of Sports Medicine Moving Through Cancer Initiative:

   ----https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/eim-in-action/moving-through-cancer/

   ----https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MTC-brochure-DIGITAL-update.pdf

Exercise Oncology Program Directory:

    ----https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/eim-in-action/moving-through-cancer/exercise-program-registry/

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In this weeks episode we talk about sexual health with Toni Krynski, a licensed professional clinical counselor and clinical director of Steps For Change Residential. Toni is has spent the past 8 years working as a therapist in the sexual health field.

Tune in as we talk sex! We talk about how sexual health plays a direct role in overall health (much more than you think). We talk about various sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, anorgasmia, and more! We discuss what happens with sexual function as we age, especially with menopause. We also cover topics such as: the science behind early sex education, how to improve sexual health communication in healthcare Toni also shares tips for people that want to improve their sexual health. 

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Join us this week as we dive deep into the science of habit formation and sustainable health changes with health coach Austin Witt, M.S.. Discover evidence-based strategies for maintaining healthy habits, and explore how technology is revolutionizing personal health coaching. 

PLUS, get an exclusive 20% discount on health coaching services with Coach Austin through FittWave! Use code KICKBACK at checkout at https://fittwave.com/hire-a-coach/

Key Discussion Points:

1. The psychology behind New Year's resolution success and failure
2. Evidence-based approaches to habit formation
3. Strategies for weight loss
4. Tips for staying healthy while on vacation
5. Technology's role in health coaching
6. The importance of preventative healthcare
7. Breaking down barriers to health access

Learn more from Coach Austin:
- @thatphysiquecoach
- Contact Information: (719) 297-5482
- Website: fitwave.com
- Download the FittWave coaching app!

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Don't forget to visit our website: https://www.kickbackscience.com/ and sign up for the kickback science newsletter!

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Happy New Year! In this week’s episode we dive into the research surrounding the popular new weight loss injections (Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, Mounjaro, etc.). 

How do they work? Are they safe? Are they effective? Why is everyone and their mother on them all of the sudden?!! Tune in to learn more! 

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This week we have Dr. Peter Smoak on to talk about Type 2 Diabetes. Dr. Smoak is an Assistant Professor at New Mexico State University, and his research focuses on the effects of medicinal, dietary, and botanical interventions as well as exercise on the improvement of pancreatic islets and diabetes. 

In this episode we discuss how we develop and treat diabetes, mainly type 2 diabetes. We discuss the role of probiotics, botanical interventions, and other dietary interventions in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. We discuss gut health, and how our gut impacts the rest of our body. We also discuss some issues within the healthcare system that impact diabetes treatment. And of course.... we discuss how incredibly important exercise is for treatment/prevention of diabetes. 

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Have you ever been told that exercising at lower intensities will burn more fat? Or that you shouldn't do high intensity exercise if you're stressed out, because the added stress isn't good for your body? 

These claims are pretty common in the fitness industry.. BUT THEY ARE SO WRONG!!! In this episode we debunk this common "fat burning zone" myth, and explain why high intensity exercise is awesome! At least according to the science.. 

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References:
 
High intensity resulted in better body composition and glycemic control compared to moderate intensity: https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.13198

High intensity has greater mitochondrial adaptations: https://doi.org/10.1113/JP272570

High intensity results in more fat oxidation ("fat burning"): https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-020-04409-2

Meta analysis showing the millions of benefits of high intensity exercise compared to moderate: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35859145/

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