Nutrition, Health and Fitness Trainer Blog | AFPA Fitness

Recent Posts by Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Anabolic Steroids and The Depression Connection

on December 28, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Testosterone is thought to be the root of male aggression. Above-average levels of testosterone have been observed in incarcerated violent criminals and in athletes engaged in semi-violent sports such as football, lacrosse, and ice hockey.

The term “roid rage” has been applied to the explosive and often irrational behavior seen in men and women who use anabolic steroids (especially those that are highly androgenic) on a regular basis above the therapeutic dosage. Many marriages and friendships I have known have fallen on hard times as a result of the severe mood swings that many steroid users experience. The irritability experienced by males and females on anabolic /androgenic steroids are paralleled by a condition that millions of women each month endure, commonly referred to as “premenstrual tension syndrome”. Anabolic steroids, however, also have the opposite psychological effect in many abusers.

Leaky Gut Diet: 10 Foods to Heal Leaky Gut & Foods to Avoid

on December 26, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

If you’re in tune with the health and fitness industry, you’ll hear the phrase gut health repeated often. Why is this buzzword garnering tons of attention? Why is gut health so important?

Athletic Amenorrhea: Women at Risk

on December 22, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Editor's Note: This post was originally published March 2014 and has recently been updated and revised for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

It is estimated that up to 45 percent of female athletes in certain sports experience menstrual irregularity, also referred to as Athletic Amenorrhea. Within the last 20 years, our society has witnessed a significant increase in the level of athletic participation by women and as a result, women are more aware of the changes experienced in their menstrual cycle.

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3 Ways to Give Nutritional Advice Legally

on December 21, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Editor's Note: This post was originally published August 10, 2016 and has recently been updated and revised for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Numerous bloggers and food writers dispense nutritional advice with ease, and some don't even cite any particular studies or research, they just seem to be coming up with these "insights" on their own. But for those who want to offer nutritional advice on a more professional basis, it's crucial to understand that advice must be delivered in a way that's credible, correct, and legal.

What is the History and Evolution of the Keto Diet?

on December 19, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

If you’ve followed eating trends in recent years, you’ve likely heard of the ketogenic diet. This high-fat, low-carb method of eating has captivated popular culture, and more people than ever are wondering whether it will make a difference for their health. For the next four weeks, we’re going to distill the facts about the ketogenic diet into a series of articles so that you can come away with a better understanding of what this diet promises and whether it makes sense for you.

The Science and Benefits of Consuming Locally Seasonal Produce

on December 18, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Eating local, seasonal produce has tremendous benefits for your nutrition, the environment, the local economy, and even your bank account.

Fasted vs. Fed Training: Which Benefits Your Clients More?

on December 15, 2022 | By Mark Occhipinti, Ph.D.

Here’s a summary of the most crucial things to know about fasted vs. fed training—including definitions, advantages and disadvantages, and how to know when to use what for your client—so you can better coach your client through their weight loss journey.