Tag: #strongtosave

Moms’ Month

May 11th, 2026
Thank you for reviewing this loaded monthly newsletter for our merry month of May.

Doesn’t this GenX couple look merry on a rustic trail hike?

A happy couple enjoys a sunny hike on a flower-lined mountain trail

Our 5th month in the Julian calendar is replete with National This and That days.

For example: a. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, b. Mental Health Awareness Month, c. Military Appreciation Month, and d. Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Key designated national days – two of which came and went already – Star Wars Day (Was the Fourth with you?) and Cinco de Mayo. Then, we’ll celebrate Sunday’s Day for Moms, and Memorial Day on Monday, May 25th.

I’ll highlight two that are up close and personal to me. Well, Military Appreciation is near-sacred. Yet I’ll save that for Memorial Day 2026, in honor of our fallen…
1. Skin Cancer Awareness Month
2. Mental Health Awareness Month
#SkinCancerisSerious

I have lost count of the scalpel wars that I have had with Dermatologists.

For my public service announcement – here are recent Frosty cases of:
1. Actinic Keratoses on my Left Shoulder region (pre-cancerous)
Dermatologists may “freeze” a region with liquid nitrogen, or prescribe “5FU” – Fluouracil – as minor chemotherapy to interfere with and stop keratoses or cancel cell development. I call 5FU “fire water”, as my skin can get quite uncomfortable for a few weeks of the regimen. That said, the inflammation, redness and crusting that I experience are still worth it.
- One of every 5 American adults have these pre-cancerous problems.
2. A Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) site on my Right Temple after MOHS removal (A SCC can become malignant),

3. A non-invasive Melanoma (malignant)

The face, ears, and neck are high-risk areas for Melanomas across genders, reflecting a “head-to-toe” gradient of UV damage.

So, this notable MOHs excision on the helix of my right ear is not too unusual. Luckily, it was an early stage, non-invasive lesion on a spot that is prone to them.[Non-invasive denotes that we addressed the lesion early before it could spread to the Dermis, or metastasize further.]

My wound site healed fairly well without skin-grafting. But…lymph glands in my jaw and neck slowly rebelled in their roles as drainage sumps, and sent me to the Emergency Department when I had trouble swallowing. My wound triggered lymphedema which calmed down slowly. 1% to 20% of melanoma patients can experience such lymphedema…Oy!

Over 8,000 Americans died from Melanomas in 2025 – assuredly a sad statistics.

A key point here is that I found that SCC on my temple and an earlier Melanoma lesion on my Left Calf in self -examinations! Check yourself out regularly – por favor.

Yes, I have also had numerous Basal Cell Carcinomas (non-malignant). Those lesions can still grow, yet are not deadly. Removal techniques for BCCs that can be prescribed are: Liquid Nitrogen “cryotherapy“, Electrodessication and Curettage (ED&C), and full excisions or MOHS micrography procedures…

This NIH image summarizes a MOHS excision and “optics”:

Notes: a. Dermatologist may situationally use cryotherapy or ED&C for SCCs and AKs. It truly depends..

b. Doctors may also prescibe a special ultraviolet light “Photodynamic” therapy to destroy pre-cancerous growths, some basal cell lesions, and stage 0 squamous lesions on the skin.

So, now you know of one medical Kryptonite that I deal with. My northern European complexion, and a genetic predisposition for skin cancer put me on a tight schedule with the Dermatologists and Mohs surgical teams.
- Skin cancers are the most prevalent type of cancers reported in America. By far! Don’t become part of that damaged majority, please.
If one chooses to make lemonade from this type of lesioned lemon, as I do, exploit the reality that almost all skin cancers are visible, and are treatable when caught early! For Melanoma, the American Cancer Society reports a 5-year survival rate of ~99%. That celebrated, if one gets melanoma, the chances for a second case of melanoma are quite high… Sadly, I’ll be back.

Yes, you can help as a layman with your Skin Cancer 101 acumen. Duispel myths and promote best practices for keeping your skin free of cancers – at least for as long as possible.

Mental Health?!

If you “are seeing GREEN” when out and about this month,; it is because Buildings may be lit in Green Light for May…

#4Mind4Body

You can view Quick Facts about Mental Health in America here.

Two eye-openers in those Facts for me were:

“1. Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.

2. 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life.”

Did you know that Anxiety Disorder is the leading Mental Health problem in America today?

A fact of particular consternation:

54.7% of adults with mental illness did not receive any mental health treatment. This statistics represents 20 Million untreated countrymen! Not Good!

Another disturbing fact stems from the disparity of mental health issues in American men vis-a-vis women. I quote the National Institute of Health,

“American men … show a lower overall prevalence of reported mental health problems (roughly 19.7% for males vs. 26.4% for females). However, they face a silent crisis due to lower rates of seeking help, resulting in underdiagnosis, [400%] higher rates of suicide, and greater risks from substance abuse.”

Hombres – You are not Alone!

I quote this long passage from an Indian health care system for effect:

“mental health conditions are among the most common health issues women face, and motherhood intensifies many of them.

Postpartum depression affects approximately one in five new mothers — not just in the weeks immediately following birth, but sometimes months later. It does not always look like sadness. It can look like numbness, rage, obsessive worry, or a frightening disconnection from the baby. Many mothers suffer through it in silence, convinced something is wrong with them rather than recognising it as a medical condition that responds well to treatment.

For mothers further along in their journey, caregiver burnout is equally real. The constant emotional labour of managing a household, a career, and the needs of children and ageing parents simultaneously takes a measurable toll on the nervous system. Anxiety disorders, sleep disruption, and low-grade depression are not personality traits — they are symptoms.

And for mothers in perimenopause and menopause, hormonal shifts can trigger or worsen anxiety, mood swings, brain fog, and a disorienting loss of the identity they have built over decades.

Reaching out is not weakness. It is the kind of courage that actually takes more strength than enduring in silence.”

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Mamma Mias

Ladies and Gents – did you realize this?

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women worldwide, ahead of all cancers combined. Yet heart disease is still widely perceived as a “man’s problem.”

The reason women get diagnosed later and fare worse after a cardiac event is not biology alone. It is that women’s heart attack symptoms are genuinely different, and they get missed. While men classically experience crushing chest pain, women are more likely to feel:
- Unexplained, persistent fatigue (not the tired-after-a-long-day kind — a bone-deep exhaustion)
- Nausea or indigestion that does not respond to antacids
- Jaw, neck, or upper back pain
- Shortness of breath, even at rest
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
Artemis Hospitals beat me to this Q&A message:

“The Best Mother’s Day Gift? Her Health

Flowers fade. Chocolates are gone by Tuesday. But a health checkup? That is a gift that protects her for the entire year ahead, and beyond.”

It is not too late to gift that Mom in your life with that type of life assurance!

Creatine Monohydrate

When you follow and validate nutritional buzz as I do, you can get a sense of what goes around will come around… Creatine is coming around in my circles for more than skeletal muscle recovery ergogenics!

This linked webpost from UCLA Health asks, Why is Everyone talking about Creatine?

“Studies are now exploring potential roles in brain health, mood and aging, in addition to strength and performance,” so stay tuned. My list of cautionary advice starts with these 3 matters for all supplements:

a. The supplement market is largely un-regulated

b. Individual responses may be very different, and

c. What did your primary Medical say when asked about the layman’s ergogenic?

Don’t Get Comfortable

I close May’s newsletter with the thoughts of Moshe Bar, who wrote a Review Column for a recent Wall Street Journal weekend edition.

“Humans thrive when they grow…”

Doesn’t the paradoxical thought that “vitality is improved by challenging avoidance, stasis, and soothing habits” pique your interest? If it didn’t before you read this newsletter – it should now. Quite plainly, actions that “move me forward” are more vital than actions or inactions based on the question, “does it feel good now?”

Please challenge that laid-back “feel good” assumption.
- Get Vital as you stay well past forty.
/s/Koach Dave.

ps – please join our mailing list, and become part of the big KAHUNA movement to Keep America’s Healthspan UNAbated!

Don’t Shoot the Messenger

April 27th, 2026

Goodness, gracious! Peptides are quite the hot topic these days.

With that trend of buzz acknowledged, I add my “gut sense” and experiences for our peptide messengers.

But first, who first coined this now popular word – peptide?

So history tells us that a German scientist, by the name of Fischer, originated the word peptide in 1906, when he was chemically breaking down protein chains. He leveraged the Greek word peptos, which means “cooked or digested.” Fascinating, as we most often think of building up amino acids into proteins, rather than breaking their nitrogen bonds down.

Messengers?

Peptides are “short” chains of amino acids, which are our building blocks for protein. When multiple peptides link together in complex bonded structures, they form proteins. As two is the smallest example of “multiple”, here is a drawing of an important Di-Peptide which has the molecular formula C9H14N4O3. This Di-peptide links 2 amino acids, Histidine and Beta-alanine into a chemical compound named Carnosine. Is Carnosine important? You betcha, as it “It “has a role as a geroprotector, an antioxidant, an antineoplastic agent, an anticonvulsant, a neuroprotective agent.”

Chemical structure depicting a peptide with various amino acids, represented by lines and functional groups.

Right, this small organic compound bonds 4 of the top 6 chemicals found in our amazing bodies, Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, and Oxygen.

Let’s move up the polypeptide hierarchy to a critical tripeptide called Glutathione, comprising 3 amino acids that are interestingly non-essential (glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine). Glutathione, sometime called GSH, is our natural master antioxidant. Those of us concerned about anti-inflammatory, natural processes should learn more about Glutathione or GSH.

Form and Function?

Natural peptide messengers act as biological signals for many bodily functions. They bind to specific receptors on the surface of cells and deliver chemical messages that tell a body to release a hormone, reduce inflammation, or repair torn muscle tissue after exercise or injury.

Common Peptides in our Fitness and Wellness Space

Four (4) categories of Chemical messengers are listed in this summary table. The first and fourth Peptides are likely the best known. Numbers 2 and 3 are known as “grey market” performance enhancement ergogenics.

Peptide Name	Primary Function	Common Wellness Application	Clinical / Legal Status
Collagen	Provides structural building blocks for connective tissue.	Joint health, skin elasticity, hair/nail growth.	Widely available over-the-counter dietary supplement.
BPC-157	Promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation).	Accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, and gut health.	Largely experimental; often sold as a “research chemical.”
Ipamorelin / CJC-1295	Growth hormone (stimulates natural GH release).	Muscle preservation, fat loss, improved sleep, anti-aging.	Available via prescription from anti-aging or wellness clinics.
GLP-1 Agonists (e.g., Semaglutide)	Mimics the hormone that targets areas of the brain regulating appetite.	Well known weight loss and blood sugar management.	FDA-approved for diabetes and weight loss; requires prescription.

Natural Peptide Production

As you know, my stance is that natural is best for getting nutrients into bodily production for messaging.

Protein Intake: Consume complete proteins (meat, dairy, eggs) to provide the amino acid building blocks the body needs to synthesize its own peptides.
Fasting and Sleep: Intermittent fasting and deep, restorative sleep elevate the body’s endogenous growth hormone (hGH) levels, releasing peptides. (Yes, these natural GHs decline as we age. Hence, we know of the illicit use of synthetic hGH to build muscle mass, and lose white fat.)
High-Intensity Exercise: Vigorous exercise to sweat will induce micro-tears in skeletal and coronary muscle. These micro-tears, as mini-inflammations, trigger the release of polypeptide messengers, called cytokines, for our repair and rebuilding functions.
- Yes, COVID-19 involves cytokine [polypeptide] storms that could overwhelm our bodies. Yet, don’t shoot the messengers. We need these messengers at proper levels to build muscle, without storm watches.

Dietary Supplements vs. Injectables

Oral Supplements: Collagen polypeptides, taken by mouth, are broken down by stomach acid into individual amino acids before being absorbed. They act as raw materials rather than direct messengers.
Injectables and Sublinguals: Synthetic messenger polypeptides (like GLP-1 agonists, BPC-157 or Ipamorelin- CJC-1295 shown in the table above) are fragile. So they are administered via subcutaneous injection to bypass the digestive tract and enter the bloodstream directly, to ensure that the “message” function remains intact.

Clinical Considerations and Safety

Important! Always consult a healthcare provider before experimenting with synthetic peptides, or for self-dsing oral over the counter peptides.

As many “supplemental” peptides are not FDA-approved for standard medical use, they are often sold online under the label “for research purposes only.” Please beware of contamination risks, inaccurate dosing, and lack of oversight in this grey market.
Although they mimic natural human compounds, side effects of polypeptide supplements can occur, like water retention, increased hunger, injection site reactions, and fluctuations in blood sugar.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) bans many polypeptides, particularly human growth hormone (hGH). I bet you can name the country where most grey market synthetic peptides are produced… That country starts with the letter C and ends with the letter a.

Moi?

I take OTC Collagen peptides, with full awareness that [possible ?!] benefits may only accrue from long-term ingestion. My rationale? First, I am 73 in calendar years. So, the nature of this largest organ (skin) in this aging body isn’t what it used to be. My nails, epidermis, muscles and joints need collagen. And, collagen is the framework of our essential Fascia, where collagen is normally produced. Yet, we don’t produce as much as we did in our formative and early adulthood years. Therein lies a possible problem!

Second, as my animal-sourced collagen is third-party-tested, 5-10 grams mixed in my daily morning coffee doesn’t generate any side effects. Are there cheaper ways to get and ingest quality animal protein? Sure – natural whole foods that contain Types I, II, and III collagen are better and probably cheaper sources.

Collagen-rich foods including eggs, chicken, beef, fish, bone broth, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. — An assortment of foods rich in natural collagen.

As quality and quantity of animal protein is often hard for busy American adults to optimize, I see little harm in taking convenient collagen peptides as a bit of protein insurance for me.

=> If you do want to try collagen peptides, please become a student of your endeavor, and research the “best” rated, though non-FDA-regulated, products. These peer market reviews should help you make good enough product choices to try.

So, yes. I take collagen peptides as a laboratory rat to share my one-off subjective results with clients, without giving them dietary advice.

I am monitoring the buzz and clinical results of the other 3 types of Polypeptides shown in my table above. You know that I’m not a fan of synthetic boosters for athletic performance.

I am a cautious fan of GLP-1 agonists if the prescribed mission is life-saving and when hormone control when fat gain is not the individual’s fault.
- Athletic micro-dosing is not an act that I support, as a fyi.

Thanks for considering my “Messenger” message.

Stay well past forty, and be strong to save!

Koach Dave

ps – please join our #strongtosave mailing list.

Good Day!

March 6th, 2026
Thank you for reviewing this open message to many, many backers who have voted in this year’s Mr. Health and Fitness competition, and /or have donated to the Mr. Health and Fitness-designated charity.

May I re-share my convictions?

What fuels your passion for health and fitness?

My passion boost is (sadly) the millions of unhealthy Americans who can benefit from a lifeline like mine.
- My proven 7s.fit process to thrive and strive is dedicated to them and their journeys..
It is my nature to tackle complex issues, such as healthspan and longevity, to help my clients and followers succeed.

My three specialty books and scores of weblog posts are sweat-based and science-backed to help them and you.

My personal experiences as a Master’s champion underscore my art of the possible with GenX and BOOMER followers. Yes, we can change the trajectory of PREVENTABLE Diseases with motion and clean, lifestyle sustenance!

What’s your favorite way to train or stay fit?

Fifty + years of elite athletics, and lifestyle lessons taught me that a successful Dolce VITA stems from progressive Volume, Intensity, Tempo, & Adaptations.

✓ My favorite sport is rowing. Yet rucking, road bicycling, swimming & good-old functional training with heavy stuff complement my lifelong passion for guiding others.

It is vital to enjoy what I do to improve my “healthitude“.

Only sexercise and Grandpa activities are as fun for me as mentoring others & competitive rowing.

What would you do with $20,000?

I will charitably donate it all to non-profit causes that Mr. Health and Fitness acknowledges.

✓ I never want money to impede the efforts of committed Americans who want to improve their physical bank accounts.

It would be a true honor to contribute that treasure, plus my time and talent as a Master Fitness Trainer, KABOOMER role model, and coach to the emerging Big KAHUNA project. Thank You.

Please Stay Tuned!

As a refresher; I was sought out for the Mr Health and Fitness 2026 Invitational competition in January. About 700 dudes agreed to compete.

Sure it might be nice to get featured in Muscle and Fitness magazine.

And sure, the prospect, however slim, of getting to the Podium as the Lone Survivor in a long competition can be appealing.

Yet, I accepted this competitive offer because my Big KAHUNA movement can always leverage donations, such as these prize monies.

In my third act, I am all about giving back and fortifying this pro bono platform to Keep America’s Healthspan UNAbated. America’s Glothic habits are costly and deadly!

Yup, Gluttony and Sloth, as two original sins are a big part of bulging waistlines, polypharmacy, and of living a bit longer but certainly not better.

Together, we can do much better!

Stay Well Past Forty!

Koach Dave

Ps. (1) The next round of the competition begins on March 9th, 2026.

I will be honored and truly grateful if you cast your Ballot for “Doc” Frost.

(2) Please join the Big KAHUNA movement.

Just contact Well Past Forty LLC @ info@wellpastforty.org
Push Phobias behind

February 14th, 2026

Friggatriskaidekaphobia afflicts millions of people when Fridays fall on the 13th day of a calendar month. These Friday-the-13ths, like today, happen justy1 to 3 times in each of our solar laps.

I am a self-proclaimed scaredy-cat. So I don’t like or watch Jason Voorhees attack people at summer camp, or view Freddy Krueger scissoring folks on Elm Street…

Credit: Gemini.Google.com

Superstition

Like many notable days in our zany world, including tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day, the rest of the story about their origins is fascinating.

Our Greek word origin comes from triskaideka, meaning 13, and phobia, meaning “fear”.

Irrational, intense fear of the number 13, particularly when it lands on a Friday, started with Christian traditions about a 13th guest at Christ’s Last Supper. Good Friday wasn’t all that good for three people crucified on a Friday, was it?

Not to be outdone, Scandinavian mythology asserts that a trickster named Lodi showed up as guest #13 at a party before bad things happened to good people. This was definitely not a case of wintry hygge!

This superstition causes avoidance of the “baker’s dozen” floor number in buildings like Hilton hotels, shown on this elevator panel here:

Some commercial airline flights skip row 13, and our daily lives can be impacted financially or mentally. Wedding planners tend to avoid Friday the 13th, and some frigga-fearful folks will not fly on Friday the 13th.

As the lyrics of a classic song by Stevie Wonder go, seven years of bad luck for things you don’t understand can become the way.

What would Emerson share?

You may recall that I share written pearls from a forbear of mine, Ralph Waldo Emerson. Well, my great-great-great uncle shared that we should “break through cobwebs of fear“. Sounds appealing – yes?

I offer yet another Frosty acronym for you to ponder:

False

Expectations

Appearing

Real.

This beckons the question, “What about you, Koach Dave?”

My mini-fears?

I get white-knuckled and knee-buckled when I am at a height where I can see over the edge like a restraining rail at the Empire State Building’s observation deck, or see clear to the ground or waterline – like walking on the “catwalks” from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier.

An episodic dream in my REM sleep is that I miss flights or classes. I have read that “missing movement” is a common dream and fear of sorts.

One Newsweek report offered that “Planes take off, and rise higher and higher and take you places, so the dreams of missing a plane likely represent the pressure to accomplish something that will ‘take off’ and help you rise in your career or reach a high goal before it is too late.”

Could it be a Frosty case of FOMO, or that Fear of missing out?

And/or is it my quest to promote the big KAHUNA movement to Keep America’s Healthspan UNAbated?

I sense that these answers are YES.

Dream on, and believe in achieving. Forego Friggatriskaidekaphobia and work your way through cobwebs of false expectations as I do.

#wellpastforty #stronghtosave
Staying Well Past Forty in Febrero

February 3rd, 2026
Thrive and Strive into your 90s • Issue 2026-01

Feb 7, 2026

Do you recall that the name of our shortest month of each year comes from Ancient Rome’s celebration of purification and atonement, called Februalia? Who is ready for atonement and purification – before and after:
1. Super Bowl LX this Sunday
2. Girl Scout cookie consumption
3. Valentine’s Day bubbly and irresistible chocolate?
Credit: Nano Banana

Your Heart!

Ah, it is that time to help my Live Well San Diego volunteers screen our community members for Blood Pressure and to coach about ways to Love Their Hearts.

Cupid Chocolate

Hmmm, Did Hallmark Cards and Willy Wonka invent this great American Holiday?

I’ll begin by sharing that I get behind Valentine’s Day far better than I support Punxsutawney Phil’s shadowy prognostics yesterday. 🙂

Duh –

Next, what’s not to LOVE about a day with its roots in a mix of: ancient Roman, pagan, and Christian traditions? Now, that is diversity! Fertility and pairing certainly come in varied sizes, shapes and colors – don’t they?

I’m told that “VD” dually originated from the Roman fertility festival of Lupercalia in mid-February, and the martyrdom of Saint Valentine on February 14th in the year 270 AD.

I reckon that a buying trip to SEE’s Candies is a better way to celebrate with Cupid, then it is to be clubbed, beaten and beheaded as Saint Valentine was….

What’s not to love about a snuggly day with moderate consumption of healthy dark chocolate, and a little break from a eating-to-live lifestyle? I argue that I won’t become a glutton as long as I quickly reboard the wellness train.

Supplement of da Month

You know my experiential bent for sharing – right? It is in my nature to transform scientific knowledge to practicality to help you on your journey..

Within that context, let’s examine Fenugreek and learn from my year-long trial, plus leverage centuries of Ayurvedic and Chinese healing.

Fenugreek herbs sniff-test like maple syrup and offer no-kidding benefits for your metabolic health. Here are the three biggest reasons why it’s worth remembering as a natural supplement:

🌱 1. It’s Buffers your blood sugar: Fenugreek seeds are high in soluble fiber. This helps slow carbohydrate absorption and may improve how your body handles insulin.

🤱 2. It’s a New Mom Favorite: It is widely used traditionally to help boost milk supply during breastfeeding.

🔥 3. Drumroll – Fenugreek Just Might Boost Libido: Some smaller credible studies suggest fenugreek may support healthy testosterone levels and libido in men.

Fun Fact: If you amp up your ingestion of Fenugreek, you might smell faintly of maple syrup, says this Vermonter. And, guys might get a little bump for their sexercise too.

Do chat with your MD or Care Team before starting a new supplement or ergogenic, particularly if you are managing blood sugar issues.

Jejune

Today, this word jejune suggests that something or someone is uninteresting or dry. Closer to its Latin origin, jejunus meant Fasting – which is the reason for my paragraph of sharing.

As your personal KaBoomer Lab Rat and Field Mouse, I have tried time-restricted eating (TRE) for 18-24 hour periods once a week in this New Year.
- My principal reason is to learn and share.
- Yet, I also believe a little hunger is very good for our bodily systems to counteract cellular senescence (I do drink water and coffee, so it is not a total FASTING period – a la Ramadan).
- Take a moment to read why Autophagy is important for healthy aging in my personaltrainertoday blog, or in the valid research from “Doctor Google”.
- My quicklook?
  - Yes, I jigger my daily energy equation by missing two meals.
  - Yes, my HR, HRV and resilience are favorably changed.
  - Yes, the lining of my gut has a healing, rather than working window.
  - Yes, my “Dolphin Brain” is more engaged, and I do better on NY Times puzzles under the influence of TRE.
  - No, I do not perform heavy resistance training or HIIT when fasted, as there is a likelihood of going catatonic.
Unless your medical care team says, NO, I suggest that you give it a whirl as did I. Using the active process of autophagy (called exercise to sweat), and the passive lifestyle process of time restricted eating – you just might defer or avoid a Nursing Home. More about that is available in the podcast that Pamela Wilson and I had in CoVid days (2021)

7s.fit.com!

Be on the Lookout for our Soft Launch of my comprehensive training and education package caleed 7s.fit (for my 7-Ss for thriving and striving).

. Of course, my early adopters will enjoy significant savings and extras! I guarantee that, as you’ve earned those with your loyalty.

Adios for this month.

Do keep your cards and letters 🙂 coming my way.

If you are reading a newsletter for the very first time,

Please join the Big KAHUNA movement!

Reach out @ info@wellpastforty.com

Copyrighted by Well Past Forty ^TM
Contact me: dave@wellpastforty.com
+1 858.925.3895
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White Stuff

January 29th, 2026
1. FERN-struck:
This image below looks more familiar to you than it does for us Cali denizens. I hope that warm Epsom soaks are easing your back strain from snow-shoveling! I just heard from a rowing and bike-riding buddy in North Carolina who was monitoring his heart rate while shoveling. Yup, it is very good exercise!
1. What’s Going On?!
I just read that colorectal cancer is going non-linear for those under age 50 in America. Oy!

According to the Wall Street Journal, Colorectal cancers surpassed breast cancer for American deaths (aged 20-49) in 2023.
- It was colorectal cancers in men – not prostate cancer that was a top issue in prior studies.
- Now, colorectal cancer is the sad chart-topper for both Mars and Venus 🙁
In conventional thought, cancers were thought to rise with age. A Doctor named Madapa Kundranda in Phoenix advised that this new finding is “absolutely disconcerting.”

We do know that these insidious cancers can progress more rapidly in young people than in folks like me. [I am on a 3-year cycle for screening due to my age, and prior intestinal polyps (thankfully benign ones].
- Is it processed foods that are killing our young?
- Why did our western medicine system think that 45 years old was a benchmark for starting colorectal cancer screening?
Much remains to be studied and concluded about what is going on with the colorectal death rates, and what is a proper age for screening – in cases of genetic risk, and no risk from heredity.

Yet, clearly HOUSTON – We have a big problem!

Next, another big and truly unhealthy problem is getting just press…

3. Nicotine usage

I suppose we can feel a wee bit better as this trend is not for what we used to call “cancer sticks” smoked by Marlboro men and housewives. Rather, these rises are for nicotine pouches and vaping.

Is this a social phenomenon of concern? You bet, Red Ryder.The University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research reported last August (2025) that ““The patterns of substance use are changing over time, with cannabis use, vaping of both nicotine and cannabis, and psychedelic drug use increasing across all age groups.” What is good about that trend , absolutely nada.

4. Good? Grief!
No, I’m not quoting a Peanuts character. I am working my way through the untimely and tragic loss of a fine man of God.

This now-heavenly soul was my Reverend for a fleeting period of time.

A Grief Observed, written by C.S. Lewis is now on my reading list!

Here is my reason why as suggested by another man of the cloth, Iowa’s Evan Welcher …

“Those of us in bereavement must continue to take care of ourselves. We must try to eat right, exercise, keep house, do laundry, and for the sake of our fellow man, shower.

We must continue to stimulate our minds even though it hurts to not be able to share new things with our cherished one. We must endeavor … to work at our vocation and hobbies, because whether we find the joy in it all at the moment: we still live.”

Keep Calm and Carry on?!

5. Akkermansia Municiphila
Does a good gut support glory? I think so! So let’s broach a “gut bomb” that is gaining visibility – the Akkermansia bacteria.

These microbes “break down mucin in the gut, which strengthens the gut lining. This helps prevent toxins and harmful particles from leaking into your body and causing inflammation. Less inflammation means better control of blood sugar and a healthier metabolism. This makes Akkermansia important for managing conditions like obesity, Type II diabetes, and even some heart diseases.”

However, comma… we don’t know what we don’t know about long term effects. We do know that high levels of this bacteria correlate to the incidence of Parkinson’s Disease – yup. And, if it becomes excessive in some folks, leaky guts may result which is the opposite of what is intended for metabolic health,

“monitoring how much Akkermansia is in your gut is essential”,

especially if you have underlying health issues. Talking to a healthcare provider before taking Akkermansia supplements is always good.” Stay tuned as I’ll report back as your lab rat with a sample size of one…

.

6. Sugar Substitutes ?!
A topic that has bothered me for a half-century is America’s growing use of sugar substitutes such as aspartame, acesulfame potassium (ACE-K), and sucralose.

Science Direct offers a “big picture” (below) of what Ace-K can impact – from developing babies in womb, to the gut, endocrine system, and our liver.

Sure, our FDA approved the measured use of ACE-K.

Yet some concerned citizens like me shy away from ACE-K and artificialities as crutches for America’s sweet tooths.

Credit: Science Direct

I wager that you aren’t surprised that the American Beverage Association claims artificial sweeteners are safe to ingest.

We know that sugar can be inflammatory and lead to obesity and diabetes. What about artificial sugars? Results are mixed.

The Wall Street Journal just reported that “large scientific studies show a connection between consumption of non-sugar sweeteners and certain health problems and gut dysfunction.”

I ask – Who needs more of those? You may recall that I quote the legendary Jack LaLanne often about processed and unnatural foodstuffs:

“If man made it, don’t eat it.”

Shifting from these public service notifications – – – how is your vitality faring in your winter wonderland?

Credit: Nano Banana

Have you joined our Big KAHUNA movement?

Please do, you may help to save a life or two.

Until we meet again, stay well past forty,

DF
Liver Time

January 6th, 2026
In our age of “Mad Men” marketing, you may recall the phrase, “It’s Miller Time.”

I didn’t mean this (Reggie) Miller:

This Miller isn’t my focus either:

Credit: Tenor

Well, to usher in our new calendar year, I’m penning useful information about Liver Time... Our Liver Time… Here we go…

On occasion, or regularly, do you fell that a good night’s sleep is unobtainium?

Sure, many factors contribute to your and my sleep quality or inequality. Stress, alcohol consumption, and late meals are three top takeaways from mimicking Morpheus in your slumber.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identifies the liver and its impact on our ability to achieve deep, restorative sleep. You know, sleep deprivation can be tantamount to being drunk. And Cortisol levels can rise with sleep problems. And your endocrine system’s capacity to produce happy hormones is impaired. And…..,.

If you awake between 1 and 3 AM in your biorhythm, your liver might be hollering for a liver lifeline.

Role Playing

In TCM, the liver’s role is vital for smooth flows of Qi (life energy that we pronounce “chee”) and for healthy blood flow throughout your or my body. The largest gland in our body can role play your emotions, like anger, frustration, and irritability.

When the liver function is balanced, Qi and blood can flow freely, emotions are regulated, and your quality sleep is long and restorative.

However, a “stagnant” or “overheated” liver can disrupt this delicate balance for too many Americans – like me.

This specific time window is known as the “Liver Time” in the TCM organ clock.

Credit: WordPress AI image.

During these nocturnal organ hours, a healthy and balanced liver is cleansing blood, processing emotions, and preparing the body for a new day dawning. If the liver is overburdened or out of balance, its energetic activity during this time can awaken you, leaving you feeling restless and unable to fall back asleep.

But Wait, There is More!

Beyond the 1-3 AM wake-ups, an imbalanced liver can manifest issues via :
- Emotional Irritability: Frequent anger, frustration, resentment, or temper.
- Digestive Issues: Bloating, indigestion, bitter tastes, irregular bowel movements.
- Physical Discomfort: Headaches , muscle tension, eye strain, dark circles under the eyes.
- Energy Levels: Fatigue, lack of mojo, feeling sluggish.
Approach Liver Health and Better Sleep

“Detoxing” is how we support our liver’s natural functions with lifestyle adjustments. Here are my suggestions for you to nurture that unsung and oft-overworked organ. Yes! You can improve sleep, especially during those crucial 1-3 AM hours:

1. Eat to Live with a Liver-Friendly Diet:
- Go Green: Enjoy dark leafy greens. Yup! Chlorophyll helps your liver cleanse the blood.
- Better Bitters: And not just in adult cocktails 🙂 Boost your bile output with dandelion greens, radicchio, endive, and artichokes.
- Sour Power: Citrus fruits.Sip warm lemon water in the morning to stimulate liver function.
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage support liver enzyme processes.
- Limit Processed and Ultra-processed “Foods” (UPFs): Please shun refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods that burden American livers.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of filtered water throughout each day to help flush toxins from your metabolism.
2. Manage Stress and Emotions:
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Calm your mind and reduce emotional swings.
- Breathe Deeply: Release tension and chill.
- Journaling: Express your emotions on paper to promote them rather than suppress your liver Qi.
- Nature Connection: Invest time in our great outdoors to ground and to reduce stressors of the rat races you find yourself in…
3. Move:
- Walk: Strolls after meals aid digestion and help move Qi.
- (As I wrote last month in my recent Know your Nuts and Bolts post, that post-meal stroll can help with manly bladder control too.)
- Yoga & Tai Chi: Mindfully move your body to improve circulation and help release emotional blockages that occur near your solar plexus chakra (Manipura). Don’t neglect “belly” or diaphragm breathing, please.
- Stretching: Stretch muscle and fascia fibers to open your flanks or body sides with frontal and transverse (twisting) plane movements for better Qi along your liver meridians. Moves that I practice are:
  - ankle (tic toc) rotations from a lying or seated position,
  - side stretches,
  - torso twists, and
  - wide-legged “stances or “sumo steps.”
4. Herbal X Factors :

A qualified TCM practitioner can personalize recommendations for herbal formulas. Herbs traditionally used to support liver health include:
- Dandelion Root: Known for its cleansing properties.
- Milk Thistle: Supports liver cell regeneration.
- Schisandra Berry: An adaptogen that protects the liver and supports overall well-being.
- Chrysanthemum Flowers: Used to clear “liver heat” and calm the eyes.
5. Is your Sleep Routine…Routine?:
- Wind-Downs: Create your relaxing evening routine that signals to your body it’s time to sleep. This could include a warm bath, reading, or gentle stretching.
- Limit your late Screen Time: Avoid electronic devices for at least an hour before your beddy-bye, as their blue lights can disrupt your natural melatonin production.
- Optimal Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Skip the PJs, open that window a crack, and massage your vagus nerve system before turning out the lights.
Dream On America

Please think about your liver health through ancient TCM lenses. You just might improve your vital sleep, particularly for any 1-3 AM wake-ups.

Eat liver-friendly foods, manage your stressors, move often and mindfully, and consider herbal support, as I am now trying with milk thistle.

Show your liver some love and pave the dreamy way for more peaceful, restorative nights. Self-scanning your body’s imbalanced signals is important for you to thrive and strive.

Would Poor Richard mislead us? One Almanack aphorism concerned temperance. Most of us know that part of the liver’s imbalance at nighttime could be alcohol-related…

“Franklin believed the liver’s greatest enemy was the “Punchbowl.” He often warned that what we drink today, we pay for tomorrow—both in money and in health.

“He that spills the Rum, loses that only; He that drinks it, often loses both that and himself.”

Get unstuck to thrive and strive. Morpheus would want it that way 🙂

Stay well past forty! Thanks for reviewing this Liver listing.

Please join our big KAHUNA movement to banish cardiovascular disease in America!

DF
Holiday 7S Fitness

December 15th, 2025

Are you looking for a compelling book gift for that special someone?

Do check this trailer for science-backed and sweat-based protocols of Strong to Save. Now, that is a book to devour!

‘Tis the Season

Continuing my tradition of sharing useful FREEBIEs with readers, here is your December giveaway from our American Heart Association:

Yes, folks, BURDEN? or BANISH! is almost “here”.

This operating system guide to change the American trajectory of Heart Disease should be launched in 2026. Stay tuned to join our big KAHUNA movement!

Auld Lang Syne,

Dave Frost

ps. Well Past Forty’s unique online FutureFit training pack will also be available in the New Year.

Join our mailing list to secure your copy at an impressive 2026 Discount.

df
250 is Nifty!

October 13th, 2025

As one proud Veteran of America’s Navy, I shout out to all ~ 3.5 million living Navy and Naval Reserve veterans on this special October 13th, 2025 birthday celebration. It is no surprise to me that units of our Atlantic Fleet converged on Philadelphia, as the City of Brotherly Love, for prominent celebrations and festivities. I will be grateful if you take a few moments to read the Presidential Proclamation for the founding of America’s Navy.

Two and 1/2 Centuries

You may not recognize some names of Naval Committee principals of the Second Continental Congress: Silas Deane, John Langdon, and Christopher Gadsen. I reckon that you do recognize the name of John Adams, who later became our second president. In Fact, President Adams wrote the US Navy into Law in 1798. Get this, the original authorization was for two (2!) sailing ships to counter Britannia and King George’s armada.

[Note: Next month, I will give another Huzzah! for US Marine Corps veterans on November 10th for their own 250th birthday celebration. Then my colors will certainly be flown on Veterans’ (formerly Armistice Day) on November 11th].

A Pirate or a Sailor?

You may recall a maxim by Steve Jobs of Apple and Silicon Valley fame. He told his Macintosh workforce in 1983 that it was better to be a pirate than a sailor.

My response is that I want America’s navymen and women to be hybrid sailors and pirates. Operate with sworn tyrust and loyalty, honor, and obedience – for sure – from a sailor’s duty. Yet, I want our seaborne warfighters to be adventurous and non-traditional, while honoring the lifelines of our Department of the Navy.

Hybrid Sailors

John F. Kennedy was a 20th century profile of courage in his own right as the young skipper of PT-109 in Solomon Island waters of World War II.

We know of the unsung heroism of these two 21st-century sailors who gave their all for the country they served and loved:

Michael P. Murphy

Michael Monsoor

Both of the Navy SEAL Medal of Honor recipients now have combatant ships named after them.

Many CrossFit folks tackle a “Murph” workout on Memorial Day. I am not focusing on the tough bodyweight crucible aspect of the full-up “MURPH”.

Rather, I focus on the resilience of Murphy and Monsoor that was honed in the uncomfortable cold surf, wet Coronado sand, and the boat crew carriage of heavy inflatable rafts after crewmates rang the bell.

Is there a parallel with those of us who do uncomfotable things every day to challenge ourselves? I argue that there is.

Being STRONG TO SAVE is selfless work. Functional strengths and mental toughness are very much in the spirit of mastering oneself to better serve others. There is a very good reason wht the US Navy Hymn begins with this line, “Eternal Father Strong to Save”. Strong to Save is a very special mantra for seafarers.

Even in today’s modern Navy, it takes strength and stamina, plus mental toughness to peacekeep, to conduct expeditionary operations in adverse conditions, to endure lengthy deployments, and to persevere.

Credit:

Navymen and women are trained to tackle something strange, new, or uncomfortable every day. Shouldn’t you and I?

Happy 250th Birthday to America’s Navy!

Stay Well Past Forty,

DF
Your October Skies Newsletter

October 13th, 2025
Well Past Forty

With these early days of autumn in the northern hemisphere this is a perfect time to chat about The Great Outdoors and our interactions with it.

Store shelves are full of pumpkin and maple treats and some healthy items, However, I caution that we should remember the Immortal words of Jack LaLanne. He advised,

if man made it don’t eat it.

LaLanne foresaw the unhealthiness of processed and ultra-processed foods, and their future prevalence. Sure, American food has become convenient. However when we’re talking about the inflammation and oxidation caused by excess fat, too much salt, and too much hidden sugar – I think it’s appropriate to go au naturel – what do you think?

Back to our 10th calendar month of 2025 with its Harvest or Hunter’s Moon.

Let’s celebrate quiet and rowdy times in our Great Outdoors, including the treasures of our national parks, our local parks, our beaches, mountains, our urban and rural trails.

Before “man” discovered farming to feed the tribe, “he” was on the move as a hunter and gatherer. I appreciate that lifestyle, as heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and obesity were most likely unheard of.

When in doubt, try to emulate some of our globe’s healthiest populations in Scandinavia and in Blue Zones. Just check how big is the difference between time that Scandinavians spend out of doors compared to us!

And while you’re at it, try to properly pronounce Friluftsliv. This Norse world means open-air living…. Don’t you just love the Scandinavian saying,

“there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes”?
- Dressing in layers, as our Moms and Dads used to counsel us, is a great starting point to transcend “bad clothes”.
For me, early October meant donning “right” biking clothes for the hot, humid, and episodically wet Southeastern USA:

Next, I travel to Boston, then to Annapolis, Maryland for rowing and college reunion activities.

This year’s Head of the Charles Regatta is 17-19 October. Most of us know how dicey the autumn New England weather can be – from idyllic Indian Summer conditions to early sleet and snow… We Rowers will be on the water for ~ 90 to 120 minutes. The 3-mile race takes about 15-17 minutes depending on conditions for men’s crews on Saturday, October 18th. So, it is the warm-up and post-race time to get from and back to our boathouse that demands good clothing decisions.

Everyday a Holiday

With a mind-body alignment to make every day special, we can view holidays as milestones or benchmarks. And remember that living the open-air dream life doesn’t always mean exercise. Check out what Community Care Physicians offer as ten great autumn activities. Yup, raking leaves and rucking around to see fall colors are two of ‘em.

We can also celebrate that American Holiday of Skeletons, Ghosts, Goblins and Associates on October 31st.

At the Savannah/Hilton Head airport, I found my Economy class seatmate on American Airlines:

That passenger has a lean and hungry look – doesn’t it?

While checking on the Celtic origin of Halloween, I learned that the ancient festival of Samhain in Ireland marked the shift from light to dark days, and then from living to the dead. Irish immigrants wore costumes to ward off visiting spirits who crossed into the living world. Turnips were carved with spooky faces to ward off the spirits until pumpkins were substituted.

Then, sometime in the 8th century A.D, A Catholic Pope named Gregory established All Saint’s Day on November 1st. I find it interesting that some cultures honor deceased predecessors in their cultural or religious Days of the Dead. Honoring good folks, and not just miracle-performing Saints in the Catholic faith is a respected tradition.

Shifting from family to sweaty endeavors, you might ask:

Is there a “patron” saint of athletes and rigorous endeavors?
– The answer is yes.

And wouldn’t you know that the designated saint was not himself an athlete?

Saint Sebastien

Sebastien stood up for freedom against the Roman Empire. When Emperor Diocletian learned of Sebastien’s faith – he ordered him to be executed. Lo and behold, Sebastien survived a hail of centurion arrows. His resilience and endurance typify the values of courage, perseverance, and faith of archers and athletes in their own lives.

citation https://hallow.com/saints/sebastian/

We don’t need to, or don’t want to, be martyrs like that 3rd century Sebastien was. Yet, I see nothing wrong with a remembrance of a patron underdog who didn’t give up.

Mantras from Vince Lombardi, Yoda, Admiral McRaven, Sir Winston Churchill and countless others bolster my thesis for athletic perseverance and resilience.

Sebastien didn’t have the benefits of X Factors and many ergogenic aids that we can tap to be STRONG TO SAVE. Perhaps therein lies a lesson. Digital fitness devices, and synthetic X Factors cannot sweat for us.

I ask you to invest a little of your time for this chat about prudent and safe ergogenic (“work producing”) aids that can help us. You may recall my keen desire to have you pursue your endeavors and goals naturally. Thus, my emphases here will be on natural and legal aids that fall into these five classes:
1. Nutritional
2. Physiological
3. Psychological
4. Pharmacological, and
5. Mechanical.
- You note that exercise pills, anabolic steroids and performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) are rightfully missing from this classification of work producers.
I am not focused on #5, mechanical aids, such as shark-like body swimsuits that gave Olympians nicknames like “Human Thorpedo”. Luddite that I am – I advocate the same bike, clothing, rowing shell, etc for all competitors. I want to celebrate athletic achievement – not the boosted mechanical performance.

Nutrition? Caffeine drinks are a good example of natural and legal ergogenics that can be dietary or taken as supplements.

Physiological? I don’t like blood doping. Yet I do partake of massages, accupressure, and self-myofascial release (SMR).

Psychological? I advocate mental tips and hacks to get into a state of flow and inner peace to perform at my best. You and I certainly see Olympic gymnasts, and professional athletes wearing fancy headphones to listen to calming and/or motivational sounds before competitions.

Nutritional? I am just fine with 3rd-party approved substances like Acetyl L-Carnitine, and FDA-approved Creatine supplements. I speak from experience that my aging process impacts my metabolism and efforts to change my trajectory of sarcopenia. So, with physician awareness and approval, I do take carnitine to aid in my exercise recovery. Any creatine that I consume is from natural sources. Please know the difference between grass-fed and grass-finished meats. In short – if you don’t want grain-fed / corn-fed meats, invest a little more money to enjoy grass-finished meats.

Organ of the Month?

No – it isn’t the LA Dodgers’ organist that I’m mentioning. This month, it is our multi-talented and multifaceted liver to celebrate.

Thanks to Johns Hopkins for this image of a human liver”:

I ask you to be uber-enthusiastic about liver kindness – as in practical ways to make this invaluable organ healthier.

After all, healthy livers store glycogen to fuel endurance activities, and perform about 499 other important functions. Metabolic health is an overarching reason to treat our livers well!
- Weighing in at about 3 pounds for an adult, our livers sit slightly to the right of centerline and just below our diaphragms.
Yes – these 5 guidelines for healthy livers sound simple. So – follow SIMPLE SELLS habits for Liver Health!
1. Moderate alcohol consumption
2. Exercise and be true to anti-inflammatory lifestyle diets
3. Avoid environmental toxins and unwashed produce.
4. Prevent Hepatitis A, B, and C
  1. Safe sex!
  2. Wash hands (HEp A)
  3. Get vaccinated!
5. Be careful with ingested medications and herbs.
Did you know that a top reason for liver malfunction or failure is…drumroll…supplements?

That’s a WRAP for the month of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Next month, I’ll delve into men’s health and tell you why I support the MOVEMBER Movement.

All Treats, not tricks in a spirit of Staying Well Past Forty,

Dave Frost

Ps. BOLO – Be on the lookout for Well Past Forty online training packages that are being produced.