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5 Minutes Read

Value of a Gym Membership

Working out at home is a challenge. There's plenty to distract you from your health goals, and you may not have enough equipment to get a full range of exercises in. That's when you decide it's time to consider joining a gym. Is a gym membership worth it? We think so, but you'll want to compare gym membership price versus value to see if it's right for you.

This guide will go over everything you need to know about the value of a gym membership. Learn how to make your gym membership pay off and all the benefits you'll get from working out at a fitness center that make a membership a valuable investment.

What a Gym Provides

Many people don't have adequate space in their homes for exercising. Even if you have enough room and plenty of exercise equipment, you don't have the full range of options you'd find at the gym. The best gym memberships open up a world of possibilities for your health journey. You can use equipment you've never had access to before and dedicate more time to exercising. With a dedicated space to visit for working out, you'll feel motivated to get a proper workout and get your heart pumping.

But joining a gym gets you more than access to free weights and treadmills. With a gym membership, you can feel your body and mind transform with every visit. We can split these benefits of visiting a gym into tangible and intangible categories.

Working out at a trainer led gym is best if you are not trained in physical fitness as trained instructors lead you through exercises and ensure you use proper technique and form. This style of gym helps with motivation as well. Often times people avoid the gym because they don’t want to think about what exercises to perform. In trainer led gyms they also often help with accountability.

Tangible Benefits of Exercising

When we think about the value of a gym membership, we often focus on the tangible benefits. These are the results we can see and feel after working out. You may lose weight, gain muscle, or feel more energized and healthy after establishing a consistent workout schedule. For many gym-goers, those benefits are the sole reason they work out. But if you want to know how to make your gym membership pay off, you should create various health goals for your fitness center visits.

Tangible benefits of exercise vary with who you are and what you do at the gym. But there are many physical and visible ways to improve your body with fitness center visits. To maximize your gym membership, you should try to create these tangible benefits from your workouts:

Strength 

Strengthen your core, arms, and legs as you exercise for comprehensive workout results. Even light strength training can help develop your muscles, which is especially vital if you otherwise don't use them very often. Experiment with strength training equipment that works different muscles and engages various body parts to make the most of your workout and gym membership.

Flexibility

With the space a gym provides, you can engage in beneficial stretching before and after your workout. Stretching is essential to keep your body flexible and avoid hurting yourself. Alongside proper workout form, stretches could reduce soreness or injury. You'll also improve your body's function as you increase your range of motion with stretching.

Balance

Muscle weakness can lead to stumbling or falls, especially as you get older. Exercise can improve your coordination and balance, saving you from falls in the future. As you continue to visit the gym, you may find your balance improves with continuous coordination-improving workouts.

Cardio

Fitness centers are home to plenty of cardio workout equipment. Whether you jog on the treadmill, row on the rowing machine, or step up to the elliptical, you'll get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. Cardio is essential for heart health, and it helps you burn calories, as well. Try to balance strength training with cardio workouts for a total-body fitness center visit.

Intangible Benefits of Exercising

A lot of gym-goers focus on the visible, physical results of their workouts. But the intangible benefits also contribute to why gym memberships are worth the cost. These are benefits you may not see directly, or they're long-term advantages that may not be obvious right away. Visit the gym regularly, and you could get these intangible benefits of exercising.

Live longer: This intangible benefit of exercising comes courtesy of the tangible benefits. When you're active, you improve your health. That can translate to a longer, healthier lifespan. If you don't regularly exercise now, getting at least 150 minutes of activity a week can increase your life expectancy by seven years.

Gain a sense of accomplishment: When you start going to a fitness center and stick with it, you deserve to feel a sense of pride in your hard work. Regular exercise at the gym gives you a sense of progress and accomplishment as you feel your strength and endurance improving with every visit. That could encourage you to take on new challenges or goals outside the fitness center, as well.

Meet new people: Going to a gym can become a social activity. You meet like-minded people who are also trying to pursue health goals. They can become new friends who encourage you to continue your visits to the fitness center and keep evolving on your exercising journey. If you find the right gym your fellow gym peeps will often feel like your ‘fit fam’

Try new things: Unique fitness center equipment and exercise spaces give you access to activities you can't do at home. New experiences will fill you with confidence and inspire you to continue trying unique exercises and activities. You may also discover your favorite way to work out that makes going to the gym even more enticing.

Of course, regular exercise is also a significant benefit for your physical and mental health. These workout benefits are mostly intangible, but they're as valuable as other advantages of going to the gym.


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07.16.2025

Eating and Living to Protect the Brain: Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and the Power of SHIELD

As the global population ages, the rate of dementia continues to rise — with Alzheimer’s disease leading the charge as the most common form. But here’s what many don’t realize: while there’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, there is a powerful way to reduce the risk and slow its progression. It starts with understanding what Alzheimer’s is — and taking action through lifestyle, exercise, and diet.What Is Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?Dementia is a broad term for a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily life. It includes various types such as:Vascular dementia – caused by impaired blood flow to the brainFrontotemporal dementia – a group of disorders related to abnormal brain structureAlzheimer’s disease – a neurodegenerative disorder and the most prevalent cause of dementiaThe Hallmarks of Alzheimer’sAlzheimer’s is driven by two primary pathologies in the brain:β-amyloid plaque buildupNeurofibrillary tangles of a protein called tauThese changes disrupt communication between neurons and eventually lead to brain cell death. In recent years, researchers have also focused on neuroinflammation — chronic inflammation in the brain — as a contributing factor.Alzheimer’s is diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms, cognitive testing, and advanced imaging or biomarker analysis. While treatments exist to manage symptoms, no cure has yet been found.The SHIELD Model: A Lifestyle-Based Prevention StrategyHarvard neurologist Dr. Rudolph Tanzi helped develop the SHIELD model, a science-backed approach to preserving brain health based on epidemiological data. SHIELD isn’t a cure, but it offers real hope for prevention and slowing decline.S – Sleep: Deep, restorative sleep helps the brain detox — literally. During sleep, the brain clears out harmful waste proteins like amyloid. Aim for 7–8 hours nightly or take short restorative naps.H – Handle Stress: Chronic stress is a major brain-aging factor. Activities like meditation, journaling, or engaging in fun, creative tasks help shift the brain from survival mode to thrive mode.I – Interact: Social isolation is a significant risk factor for dementia. Strong social ties and emotional connection are as crucial for your brain as nutrition and exercise.E – Exercise: What’s good for the heart is good for the brain. Exercise increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, supports the growth of new brain cells, and helps regulate insulin — all critical for long-term cognitive health.L – Learn New Things: Mental stimulation builds cognitive reserve — essentially a “savings account” of brain power. The more synapses you create through learning, the better your brain can resist decline.D – Diet: A diet that reduces inflammation, supports the gut microbiome, and stabilizes blood sugar is foundational for brain health.Nutrition: Fuel for a Healthy BrainThe connection between the gut and brain — known as the gut-brain axis — is now undeniable. The vagus nerve, a major communication pathway between the gut and brain, is influenced by gut bacteria. These microbes can modulate memory and mood, making nutrition a key player in cognitive health.What to Avoid1. The Western Diet: High in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, this diet increases inflammation, disrupts the gut microbiome, and accelerates cognitive decline.2. Refined Sugars: Excess sugar feeds bad gut bacteria, spikes insulin, and promotes brain inflammation.3. Gluten (for sensitive individuals): For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten may worsen brain fog and cognitive decline.What to Eat for a Sharp Mind🍇 Berries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, berries fight oxidative stress and support gut health.🥬 Leafy Greens: Packed with folate and other essential nutrients, greens like spinach and Swiss chard help protect brain function.🐟 Omega-3s: Found in wild-caught fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3 fats reduce inflammation and support neuronal health.🫒 Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Promotes autophagy — the brain’s internal cleaning system — and is linked to lower Alzheimer’s rates.🧄 Spices: Turmeric (with black pepper), cinnamon, saffron, and rosemary have potent anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting properties.🥗 The MIND Diet: A fusion of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, the MIND Diet emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods that reduce Alzheimer’s risk and slow cognitive decline.Exercise: Move It to Save ItRegular movement improves mood, memory, and metabolism. Cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and even yoga all improve brain blood flow, decrease inflammation, and support neurogenesis — the creation of new neurons.Aim for:150 minutes of moderate activity weekly2–3 strength sessions/weekDaily movement breaks to counter sedentary behaviorFinal Thoughts: Build a Brain-Healthy LifestyleAlzheimer’s disease is a complex, multifactorial condition — but the way we live can change the story. With sleep, connection, learning, movement, stress management, and a powerful, gut-supportive diet, we can build real resilience in the brain.“The mind is just like a muscle — the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets and the more it can expand.” — Idowu KoyenikanLet’s treat every day as a chance to train our brains, nourish our bodies, and strengthen our futures.

07.09.2025

Healing from Within: How Nutrition Supports PTSD Recovery

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While many people heal over time, a subset will develop PTSD, a chronic condition that can include:Intrusive thoughts or flashbacksHypervigilance and insomniaAnxiety or depressionDigestive disorders and inflammationMemory and concentration issuesPTSD has one of the most well-established connections between brain and body dysfunction. It affects the nervous system, hormones, digestion, and even immune regulation. For example, a 2018 meta-analysis of eight studies found a significantly higher rate of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in people with PTSD than in the general population.This isn't just “in the head.” It’s biology—and it’s personal.The Standard American Diet: Fueling the FireUnfortunately, the foods most common in Western diets are the very ones that worsen trauma recovery.Refined sugarsProcessed fatsArtificial flavor enhancersLow fiber and nutrient-poor optionsThese ingredients promote inflammation, spike blood sugar, damage the gut lining, and disrupt the gut-brain connection.The Glutamate Connection: When Flavor Turns ToxicOne area of emerging research focuses on glutamates—natural compounds that act as excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain. While they occur in many foods naturally, people with PTSD appear especially sensitive to excess glutamates, which can trigger brain inflammation and nerve overstimulation.A study on Gulf War veterans found that a low-glutamate diet significantly reduced PTSD symptoms, particularly anxiety and brain fog.Common foods high in glutamates or MSG include:Fish sauce and oyster sauceSoy sauce, miso, and fermented beansParmesan cheese and aged cheesesTomatoes and tomato-based saucesMushrooms, seaweed, and spinachNote: These foods are not inherently “bad,” but for individuals with PTSD, being mindful of intake and noticing symptom flares after consumption can be key to management.What to Eat Instead: Nutrients That Support Trauma RecoveryHere’s the good news: a trauma-informed diet can calm inflammation, repair oxidative damage, and support emotional resilience. Let’s look at some of the top nutritional allies for PTSD recovery1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Rebuilding Brain ResilienceIn more than one clinical trial—including a randomized controlled study of rescue workers following the Great East Japan Earthquake—omega-3 fatty acids reduced PTSD symptoms.These healthy fats help:Calm brain inflammationProtect neurons from damageSupport the production of mood-regulating neurotransmittersBest sources:Wild salmon, sardines, anchoviesChia seeds, flaxseeds, seaweed (for plant-based ALA)High-quality fish oil supplements if tolerated2. Blueberries: Nature’s Brain-Protective SuperfoodAnimal studies show that a blueberry-enriched diet may:Reduce oxidative stress in the brainIncrease serotonin levels (the “feel-good” neurotransmitter)Lower inflammation in trauma-sensitive regions like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampusAdd them to smoothies, oatmeal, or just enjoy them as a snack.3. Vitamin E: The Brain’s Antioxidant ArmorVitamin E is essential for protecting brain cells from free radical damage, which is often elevated in those with PTSD. In animal studies, it was shown to reduce anxiety and prevent further trauma-related brain damage.Food sources of Vitamin E include:Sunflower seedsHazelnuts and almondsSpinach and broccoliRaw tomatoes4. Gut-Supportive Foods: Restore the Gut-Brain AxisSince PTSD often disrupts digestion, supporting gut health is a vital piece of recovery. A well-balanced microbiome can help regulate mood, lower inflammation, and support sleep.Support your gut with:Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and low-sugar kombuchaFiber-rich vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, sweet potatoes, and leafy greensPrebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, and leeks5. Avoid Food Triggers (With Compassion and Awareness)Some foods and additives can worsen symptoms in people with PTSD:Added sugar – may trigger mood swings and blood sugar crashesCaffeine – can increase anxiety, heart palpitations, and sleep disruptionAlcohol – disrupts sleep cycles and neurotransmitter balanceMSG/glutamates – may overstimulate an already sensitive brainThat doesn’t mean all these must be eliminated entirely, but individuals should pay attention to how they feel after consuming them and consider moderating intake where needed.The Holistic Path ForwardPTSD healing isn’t linear. It often requires a multi-modal approach, combining:Trauma-informed therapy (like EMDR, somatic therapy, or CBT)Medication, when indicated and appropriateNutritional support to rebuild and repair the nervous systemMovement, breathwork, and mindfulness to re-regulate the bodyAt Larson Health, we believe in treating the whole person—not just the symptoms. Food isn’t the only answer, but it is a powerful ally in the journey toward healing.Final Thoughts: Food as Empowerment After TraumaPTSD is a complex condition that deserves compassion, patience, and care. While food cannot erase trauma, it can help rebuild the foundation of a safer, more stable brain and body.If you or someone you love is navigating the effects of trauma, know that healing is possible. And it may begin with something as simple and profound as what's on your plate.

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Why Creatine Is Way More Than a Gym Supplement

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Think: neuroprotection, anti-aging, bone density, inflammation control, and even support in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.Let’s look at the studies—one by one—and break them down.Brain Benefits: The New Frontier1. The Alzheimer’s Pilot Study That Turned Heads (University of Kansas, 2024)Researchers at the University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (CABA) ran a pilot study with older adults diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s. The team gave participants a high daily dose of 20g creatine monohydrate for 8 weeks—split into smaller servings throughout the day.Here’s what they found:MRI scans showed an 11% increase in brain creatine stores. That’s a big deal because it proves creatine can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly support your brain’s energy system.Cognition wasn’t just “preserved”—it improved:Working memory (e.g., recalling word lists or task sequences)Processing speedExecutive function (decision-making, focus)Participants also scored better on NIH cognitive tests, especially in fluid intelligence and attention control.Bonus: No major side effects—just some mild digestive issues in a few participants.Why this matters: Alzheimer’s is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and low brain energy. Creatine may offer a non-drug way to literally energize aging neurons.2. Creatine for Sleep-Deprived Brains (German Study, 2023)We all know that foggy, fried-brain feeling after a terrible night’s sleep. In this study, researchers gave a single large dose of creatine (0.35 g/kg, or about 24g for a 150-lb person) to healthy adults who’d been awake for over 20 hours.Results? Pretty remarkable:Brain scans showed ATP levels were protected compared to placebo.Cognitive testing improved in:Word recallReaction timeMental mathMood and fatigue ratingsThe effects were noticeable within hours of taking the supplement.Why this matters: Under stress—like sleep loss, emotional burnout, or chronic disease—your brain burns through ATP faster. Creatine seems to recharge your brain in real-time. Could this help caregivers, shift workers, or busy moms? Possibly.3. Meta-Analysis: Memory & Attention in Aging BrainsA 2023 scientific review analyzed over a dozen human trials and found modest, but consistent improvements in:Short-term memoryWorking memoryReaction timeAttention and focusThese effects were strongest in older adults, people under cognitive stress, and women—who may respond better due to lower baseline creatine levels.Why this matters: You don’t need to have a disease to benefit. If you’re aging (hello, all of us), your brain may just run better on a little creatineMuscle, Bone & Aging BenefitsWe’ve covered the brain—but creatine’s original reputation as a muscle enhancer still holds. And here’s the kicker: the benefits are even more profound as we age.4. Muscle Mass & Sarcopenia in Older AdultsMultiple studies (including meta-analyses) have shown that when adults over 50 take 3–5g of creatine daily + do resistance training, they see:Greater muscle strength and lean mass gainsReduced fall riskSlower loss of bone mineral densityLower levels of inflammatory markersEven without lifting weights, creatine helps preserve muscle—just at a slower pace.Why this matters: Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) is one of the strongest predictors of poor health, frailty, and even mortality. Creatine is a simple, safe intervention that slows the clock.What About That “No Difference” Study?One small 12-week study showed no muscle gain between creatine and placebo—but participants weren’t weight training, and the changes may have been masked by early water retention (a normal first effect of creatine). The total body of evidence still heavily favors creatine for muscle health.How Much Creatine Should You Take?GoalDoseNotesGeneral health3–5 g/daySafe long-term, even without loadingRapid saturation20 g/day split into 4 doses for 5–7 daysOptional “loading phase”Cognitive support (acute)0.3–0.35 g/kg (one-time)For sleep deprivation, brain fatigue, etc.Older adults3–5 g/day + resistance trainingHelps with sarcopenia, falls, brain energyAlzheimer’s/clinical use20 g/day (under supervision)Used in pilot studies—monitor with a providerTips for Getting the Most from CreatineUse creatine monohydrate – It’s the most researched and effective form.Take it with food, especially with carbs or protein to enhance absorption.Stay hydrated – Creatine draws water into your muscle cells.Be consistent – It takes time to saturate your cells. Daily dosing is key.Go slow if needed – Start with half doses to avoid GI issues.Functional Nutrition Final ThoughtsCreatine isn’t a performance enhancer. It’s a cellular fuel source—one that supports your brain, muscles, bones, and metabolic energy across your life span.Whether you’re navigating cognitive changes, battling midlife fatigue, or simply trying to age well and stay strong, creatine may be one of the most important tools in your toolkit.And with decades of data showing it’s safe, effective, and affordable, there’s never been a better time to make creatine part of your functional health strategy.ReferencesUniversity of Kansas Alzheimer’s Creatine Pilot Study (2024) – KUMC.eduRawson ES et al. “Creatine supplementation and brain performance.” Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2023.Gualano B, et al. “Creatine supplementation in aging and neurodegenerative disorders.” JISSN (2022).Avgerinos K, et al. “Effects of creatine on cognitive function.” Frontiers in Neuroscience (2020).Kreider R, et al. “ISSN position stand: creatine supplementation and exercise.” JISSN (2017).Wallimann T. “Creatine: a new therapeutic target?” Aging Research Reviews (2016).

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