EDIT: Lots of page views on this one. The Jigsaw Magnesium, which contains Folate and B-6 as co-factors proved to be too much because it along with magnesium "neutralizes" adrenaline. Pure Magnesium malate was better for me but it appears that I cannot take it with the Thym-Adren.
FINAL EDIT: Looks like I am getting back on track by taking all Thym-Adren and no Mag at least for the time being. After the Mag RBC tested normal, I feel comfortable sticking with all Thym-Adren until further notice.
9/23- Another solid start to the week. Lakeshore 6.5 in 48:20 (7:26 pace). Looks strong on the surface but I was working harder than I should have been. Daily runs in sub-7:30 are fine when I am in sub-90 shape for a half but not so now. Fairly even pace. Again, all but 1 mile was sub-7:30. Grade is lenient today. I certainly do not feel this well. Took a 2:1 ratio of Cal/Mag. I do suspect that too much Mag relative to Cal may have thrown my Na/K off but that should be only temporary. Can I avoid a collapse this week? Is it too much to ask?
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
9/24- VERY poor effort in a tempo try. Got off to a pretty good start (6:40 1st mile) then died. Mile 4 was 7:30 and Mile 5 was over 8:00. Finished 5 miles in 36:25 (7:17 pace). I'll cut myself some slack and won't call this a tempo if I can bounce back tomorrow. I tried some extra magnesium last night along with just a trace of Thym-Adren and it apparently did not clear my system. It will not work. It's 2:1 Cal/Mag or bust. Nothing else will work. If I quit the Mag, I'll be back on the Thym-Adren and probably the Fructosin. I may be faster in the short term but have no chance of getting in balance.
Grade:C/2 credit/distance=5.0
9/25- WORSE! The Thym-Adren apparently has not cleared. I must be better tomorrow. Naked 3 miler at the Shak. Pace was likely 8:30ish. I'm contemplating retirement again.
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=3.0
9/26- Not much better than yesterday's debacle. 3 miles at Gold's in 23:57 (7:59 pace) with splits of 7:17-8:08-8:32. OUCH! I don't understand it. The glandulars should be fully out of my system by now. Maybe something else is the matter but it's too close to race day to experiment and possibly make things worse. The plan is to participate in the race on Sunday only because I've already signed up. It's only a 10K so I can finish safely for sure. If it were a half mary or even a 15K, I'd skip it.
Grade:D+/1 credit/distance=3.0
9/27- 1 mile junk run in around 7:20 and had to quit because of stomach cramps. BAD!
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=1.0
9/28- Planned rest day.
9/29- Great Race 10K in 43:00 (6:55 pace) plus a warm and cool.
Grade:C+/3 credits/distance=7.0
Weekly summary:
End of the 3rd quarter and I'm done with the magnesium. Did better than expected in the race and checked off state #7 of 10 for the 10K.
Distance= 26.0/ GPA= 17.9/8= 2.24
YTD: 1,348 miles. 14-23 with a 2.54 GPA.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Monday, September 16, 2013
Training 9/16-9/22 (possible race)
9/16- Strong start to the week. Lakeshore 6.5 in 48-flat (7:23 pace). Even pace all the way. All but 1 mile was sub-7:30. Warm and dry day out there with temps in the mid-80s and a dewpoint near 60 if not slightly below. Felt comfortable. Can't say that I could have run all day at this pace but another 6.5? I bet I could manage it. No Thym-Adren but my Cal/Mag ratio is very sensitive. I need 750 mg of each. 500 won't cut it and 1,000 is probably too much.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
9/17- Salazar 300s at Vestavia. It was an improvement over the last such workout, which is very encouraging when doing intervals. Last time, I managed 10 reps in 58-59. Today was 12 reps in sets of 6. I clocked 2 56s, 7 57s, 2 58s before closing with a solid 54.5. Still, my body is not quite in sync and my gut feeling is to skip Talladega (I'll save $40+ gas) and focus on the 10K the following week. Even if it's a good day for me, my fitness has diminished to the point that I can't expect better than a mid-high 20:xx. I'll decide by Thursday and could change my mind if I have a breakout.
Grade:B+/2 credits/distance=3.5
9/18-Adjusted the Cal/Mag ratio to 1,000 Cal/750 Mag and it was clearly an improvement.Taking all Mag in the morning, I was awful but got better with every dose of Cal. Trak Shak 7.5 in 54:02 (7:12 pace) while running a pretty comfortable effort. I may try to tweak it a little more tomorrow. I am listed as "doubtful" for Talladega but if I feel great tomorrow or Friday, I will change my mind. My half mary time right now would be 1:35ish and will come down nicely with consistent training.
Grade:A/1 credit/distance=7.5
9/19-Once again, I need X# of pills or else. I've simply traded the Thym-Adren for the Cal/Mag. I took all Cal this morning and was awful but gradually improved with each dose of Mag. I suspect a selenium deficiency so I tried 2 of those pills this evening. 1 may have been helpful but 2 of them caused over-stimulation. Attempted a tempo and got a great start but was fading fast by the end of Mile 1 (6:27) so I shut down the engines and just cruised the final 4 miles in a rather pedestrian 31-flat. Overall time was 37:27 (7:29 pace) for 5 miles plus a half mile cool.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.5
9/20- Officially a "no" for Talladega. If I am low on selenium, the supplement that I took is not the answer. I pitched it today. Workout was a lame 4 miler on Lakeshore in 31:50 (7:57 pace) and had to rally at the end to secure the sub-8 overall. While that's not horrible for an easy day, I was clearly off form.
Grade:C/1 credit/distance=4.5
9/21- Planned rest day due to predicted bad weather.
9/22- Another long run FAIL! Plan was 15 miles @ 7:45 ish pace. I tried 750 Cal/500 Mag and struggled through 5 miles on Lakeshore in a pedestrian 39:35 (7:55 pace). Splits were 18:58-20:37 with an 8:25 in Mile 5. Tried some more Mag and was so bad that I did not even attempt to run any longer. It appears that once again, I need a 2:1 ratio of Cal/Mag, which would have been disastrous only a week ago. I've traded one instability for another and I am MAD AS HELL! Good call on skipping Talladega. I expect to suck in my 10K next week.
PM- 1 mile junk run. Felt no better.
Grade:F/2 credits/distance=6.0
Weekly summary:
Numb.
Distance=34.0/ GPA= 19.3/8=2.41
YTD: 1,322 miles. 14-22 with a 2.55 GPA.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
9/17- Salazar 300s at Vestavia. It was an improvement over the last such workout, which is very encouraging when doing intervals. Last time, I managed 10 reps in 58-59. Today was 12 reps in sets of 6. I clocked 2 56s, 7 57s, 2 58s before closing with a solid 54.5. Still, my body is not quite in sync and my gut feeling is to skip Talladega (I'll save $40+ gas) and focus on the 10K the following week. Even if it's a good day for me, my fitness has diminished to the point that I can't expect better than a mid-high 20:xx. I'll decide by Thursday and could change my mind if I have a breakout.
Grade:B+/2 credits/distance=3.5
9/18-Adjusted the Cal/Mag ratio to 1,000 Cal/750 Mag and it was clearly an improvement.Taking all Mag in the morning, I was awful but got better with every dose of Cal. Trak Shak 7.5 in 54:02 (7:12 pace) while running a pretty comfortable effort. I may try to tweak it a little more tomorrow. I am listed as "doubtful" for Talladega but if I feel great tomorrow or Friday, I will change my mind. My half mary time right now would be 1:35ish and will come down nicely with consistent training.
Grade:A/1 credit/distance=7.5
9/19-Once again, I need X# of pills or else. I've simply traded the Thym-Adren for the Cal/Mag. I took all Cal this morning and was awful but gradually improved with each dose of Mag. I suspect a selenium deficiency so I tried 2 of those pills this evening. 1 may have been helpful but 2 of them caused over-stimulation. Attempted a tempo and got a great start but was fading fast by the end of Mile 1 (6:27) so I shut down the engines and just cruised the final 4 miles in a rather pedestrian 31-flat. Overall time was 37:27 (7:29 pace) for 5 miles plus a half mile cool.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.5
9/20- Officially a "no" for Talladega. If I am low on selenium, the supplement that I took is not the answer. I pitched it today. Workout was a lame 4 miler on Lakeshore in 31:50 (7:57 pace) and had to rally at the end to secure the sub-8 overall. While that's not horrible for an easy day, I was clearly off form.
Grade:C/1 credit/distance=4.5
9/21- Planned rest day due to predicted bad weather.
9/22- Another long run FAIL! Plan was 15 miles @ 7:45 ish pace. I tried 750 Cal/500 Mag and struggled through 5 miles on Lakeshore in a pedestrian 39:35 (7:55 pace). Splits were 18:58-20:37 with an 8:25 in Mile 5. Tried some more Mag and was so bad that I did not even attempt to run any longer. It appears that once again, I need a 2:1 ratio of Cal/Mag, which would have been disastrous only a week ago. I've traded one instability for another and I am MAD AS HELL! Good call on skipping Talladega. I expect to suck in my 10K next week.
PM- 1 mile junk run. Felt no better.
Grade:F/2 credits/distance=6.0
Weekly summary:
Numb.
Distance=34.0/ GPA= 19.3/8=2.41
YTD: 1,322 miles. 14-22 with a 2.55 GPA.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Job or Passion?
10 years ago, I was a first year MBA student with aspirations of becoming an Analyst for a major corporation or bank. Let's just say that it didn't work out and leave it at that. After that, I made a half-assed effort to prepare for the CPA exam and fall back on my Accounting degree but eventually gave up due to stress and lack of interest. Finally, after 16 rejections, I got hired with the State of Alabama and eventually got a transfer from Montgomery up to Birmingham to work as an auditor. How do I like my current job?
It's got its ups and downs but I'll try not to complain too much because it is a big improvement over my old one, in which my duties were mostly data entry.
Pros:
-no overtime required, not terribly stressful. High stress with long hours would be a killer in my condition. I would have hated a job at a big CPA firm.
- no trouble getting a day or two off every now and then
- I feel good about busting somebody who is blatantly cheating on taxes and in doing so, I help keep taxes lower for honest folks.
Cons:
-I don't like having to give a large bill to nice people who sincerely didn't know about a certain tax law. I'd like to cut them a break if possible but I've got to apply the law.
-Can be tedious at times flipping invoices and I don't feel like I'm using my degrees very much.
-Some people like to drag the audit out as long as possible then at the last minute, they give me information proving that they owe little or no tax. As a result, I have to work and re-work audits 3 or more times for minimal money. They say that you are not evaluated on production but you are.
-Yes, my medical issues are holding me back from performing better.
Overall, it's not a bad gig and I could be fairly content doing it for the next 25 years and it's a good thing because it's really my only option that's somewhat related to my field. A private sector job would pay better but it's not worth the stress and I honestly don't think I could handle it right now. Now, the question of this post: Would I ever quit my job to pursue my passion in natural medicine? My answer is pretty sensible. If it promised me that ability to earn a living, the answer is HELL YES.
Under no circumstances will I go back to school and subject myself to the stress of another degree with no guarantee of landing a job in the field. My only hope is that the book deal could be a springboard. I have no expectations of a #1 best seller but judging by the interest in this blog and my connections with the Christian and running community, several thousand sales is not unrealistic. At least locally, my story would be fairly well-known. I really like Birmingham and would not want to leave. Fortunately, I am aware of a practice in town called Hoover Alt MD but to my knowledge, they do not sell hair or neurotransmitter tests. Any chance they might hire me as a consultant? If this war finally ends in my favor and as I predict, I am able to do things that I could never even dream of now, yes it could happen.
My dream is to develop some type of mathematical formula that takes in all information on those tests and identifies "bottom lines" that cause intolerance to certain pills to create a fool-proof formula that eliminates or at least minimizes the instability that I have.
Money is not my primary concern. As long as I have the following, I'd be fine with it:
-a roof over my head in a safe neighborhood.
-reliable car that can get me around.
-enough disposable income to take a couple mini-vacations per year and maybe be able to go overseas every few years or so.
That's pretty much where I am now.
As far as a big house, fancy cars and flashy clothes, I don't need any of that.
Honestly, I'd rather make $40K by following my passion than $60K by not doing so.
It's got its ups and downs but I'll try not to complain too much because it is a big improvement over my old one, in which my duties were mostly data entry.
Pros:
-no overtime required, not terribly stressful. High stress with long hours would be a killer in my condition. I would have hated a job at a big CPA firm.
- no trouble getting a day or two off every now and then
- I feel good about busting somebody who is blatantly cheating on taxes and in doing so, I help keep taxes lower for honest folks.
Cons:
-I don't like having to give a large bill to nice people who sincerely didn't know about a certain tax law. I'd like to cut them a break if possible but I've got to apply the law.
-Can be tedious at times flipping invoices and I don't feel like I'm using my degrees very much.
-Some people like to drag the audit out as long as possible then at the last minute, they give me information proving that they owe little or no tax. As a result, I have to work and re-work audits 3 or more times for minimal money. They say that you are not evaluated on production but you are.
-Yes, my medical issues are holding me back from performing better.
Overall, it's not a bad gig and I could be fairly content doing it for the next 25 years and it's a good thing because it's really my only option that's somewhat related to my field. A private sector job would pay better but it's not worth the stress and I honestly don't think I could handle it right now. Now, the question of this post: Would I ever quit my job to pursue my passion in natural medicine? My answer is pretty sensible. If it promised me that ability to earn a living, the answer is HELL YES.
Under no circumstances will I go back to school and subject myself to the stress of another degree with no guarantee of landing a job in the field. My only hope is that the book deal could be a springboard. I have no expectations of a #1 best seller but judging by the interest in this blog and my connections with the Christian and running community, several thousand sales is not unrealistic. At least locally, my story would be fairly well-known. I really like Birmingham and would not want to leave. Fortunately, I am aware of a practice in town called Hoover Alt MD but to my knowledge, they do not sell hair or neurotransmitter tests. Any chance they might hire me as a consultant? If this war finally ends in my favor and as I predict, I am able to do things that I could never even dream of now, yes it could happen.
My dream is to develop some type of mathematical formula that takes in all information on those tests and identifies "bottom lines" that cause intolerance to certain pills to create a fool-proof formula that eliminates or at least minimizes the instability that I have.
Money is not my primary concern. As long as I have the following, I'd be fine with it:
-a roof over my head in a safe neighborhood.
-reliable car that can get me around.
-enough disposable income to take a couple mini-vacations per year and maybe be able to go overseas every few years or so.
That's pretty much where I am now.
As far as a big house, fancy cars and flashy clothes, I don't need any of that.
Honestly, I'd rather make $40K by following my passion than $60K by not doing so.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Training 9/9-9/15
9/9- Forced rest day. Too weak to even attempt a run. Tomorrow is the last day on the antibiotics. I did hit 1,250 miles for the year yesterday and am on pace to finish near 1,800.
9/10- AM- Took the last dose of antibiotics when I woke up and was awful as expected in my run. Wisteria 1.5 mile in a hard fought 14:47 (9:51 pace). It would have been a 2 miler but I had to walk to the finish due to a diarrhea threat. I've learned that this class of antibiotics (Amoxicillan) depletes magnesium so that likely explains it. It can't get any worse than this (I hope). I'm running again this afternoon and will aim for sub-26 for 3 miles.
PM- A bit better than expected. 3 miles at Gold's in 24:51 (8:17 pace) minus a bathroom stop. I had been off the antibiotics for only 7 hours but felt the best I have since Friday. That's probably because I took a mega dose of magnesium. I'm not celebrating anything. 3 @8:17 is barely under 26 for a full 5K and that's still BAAAAUHD! I hope to be sub-8 pace tomorrow on a standard issue workout.
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=5.0
9/11- AM- 3 miles in 23:14 (7:45 pace). Very even splits and an improvement of 1:37 over yesterday but I was working hard almost all the way. This was a near race level effort and would have been hard pressed to break 24 for a full 5K in competition.
PM- 5 miles in 37:27 (7:29 pace). Negative split (18:52-18:35) and a nice pick up in Mile 5 to secure the sub-7:30 overall pace. I am getting stronger with every session. That's nothing new in these 6 months of hell. What has been happening is that I get to the point in which I am turning the corner, then I crash again and repeated the process countless times. Is it too much to ask for at least a few weeks without a crash? I have officially clinched a 1.75 GPA on the year.
Grade:C+/1 credit/distance=8.0
9/12- Mediocre speed session at Mountain Brook. 2 x400, 2x300, 2x200, 2x100 followed by a full recovery then a 400 all out. Stats were 83-82-57-57-35-35. 100s were naked then the 400 was a rather lame 75.7. At a minimum, I like to close a workout with a sub-70. Overall, I felt slightly better than yesterday but grading is stricter on a quality day. 3 lap warm and cool.
Grade:C+/2 credits/distance=3.0
9/13- Trak Shak 4.5 mile in 33:15 (7:23 pace) plus a cool. I think I am recovered from the antibiotics and can cut the Mag back to normal (500 mg). I had diarrhea again and had to take a walk break until I found a Port-a-John so hopefully that issue will go away soon. Overall, not bad on the run today.
Update: This one is big. I have learned that magnesium is required for serotonin production thanks to Livestrong. Based on how I feel, I strongly suspect a low serotonin level. I will NEVER take an SSRI anti-depressant again but 5-HTP might be worth a try. I haven't taken anything for neurotransmitters since 2010 so I feel like I'm going backwards. I can't predict the results but if I do take it, I hope it will be only temporary. Still, no need for Thym-Adren.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.0
9/14- Turned 33 years old today. Pretty decent run on a beautiful day. Clear skies and temps in the 60s this morning. 12 mile run with the Gnomes in 91:57 (7:40 pace). Groin was giving out near the end but outside of that, I felt good. I could not find anyone who matched my pace. It was either over-8 or sub-7:20. I believe this is my longest run since early April. I'm going to try the 5-HTP now and hope to get a clear "yes" or "no" answer quickly.
-The 5-HTP is a clear NO. That's okay. I'll just stick with the Cal/Mag. Good day nonetheless. I may struggle a bit tomorrow.
Grade:B+/2 credits/distance=12.0
9/15- Very sleepy from the 5-HTP. Slept in until 10:30 then had to take an afternoon nap. Waited until 4 PM to run and it was a good call. 5 miles in 37:50 (7:34 pace). Not a bad run overall. Faded to 7:42s in the last 2 miles. It's Cal/Mag or bust and I've reached the end of the line.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.0
Weekly summary:
With this loss, I have guaranteed a sub-3.0 for the year and need to go 11-4 just to finish at .500. I did have a half decent end to week and hope to build on it going forward.
Distance=38.0/GPA= 20.5/8= 2.56
YTD: 1,288 miles. 14-21 with a 2.55 GPA.
9/10- AM- Took the last dose of antibiotics when I woke up and was awful as expected in my run. Wisteria 1.5 mile in a hard fought 14:47 (9:51 pace). It would have been a 2 miler but I had to walk to the finish due to a diarrhea threat. I've learned that this class of antibiotics (Amoxicillan) depletes magnesium so that likely explains it. It can't get any worse than this (I hope). I'm running again this afternoon and will aim for sub-26 for 3 miles.
PM- A bit better than expected. 3 miles at Gold's in 24:51 (8:17 pace) minus a bathroom stop. I had been off the antibiotics for only 7 hours but felt the best I have since Friday. That's probably because I took a mega dose of magnesium. I'm not celebrating anything. 3 @8:17 is barely under 26 for a full 5K and that's still BAAAAUHD! I hope to be sub-8 pace tomorrow on a standard issue workout.
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=5.0
9/11- AM- 3 miles in 23:14 (7:45 pace). Very even splits and an improvement of 1:37 over yesterday but I was working hard almost all the way. This was a near race level effort and would have been hard pressed to break 24 for a full 5K in competition.
PM- 5 miles in 37:27 (7:29 pace). Negative split (18:52-18:35) and a nice pick up in Mile 5 to secure the sub-7:30 overall pace. I am getting stronger with every session. That's nothing new in these 6 months of hell. What has been happening is that I get to the point in which I am turning the corner, then I crash again and repeated the process countless times. Is it too much to ask for at least a few weeks without a crash? I have officially clinched a 1.75 GPA on the year.
Grade:C+/1 credit/distance=8.0
9/12- Mediocre speed session at Mountain Brook. 2 x400, 2x300, 2x200, 2x100 followed by a full recovery then a 400 all out. Stats were 83-82-57-57-35-35. 100s were naked then the 400 was a rather lame 75.7. At a minimum, I like to close a workout with a sub-70. Overall, I felt slightly better than yesterday but grading is stricter on a quality day. 3 lap warm and cool.
Grade:C+/2 credits/distance=3.0
9/13- Trak Shak 4.5 mile in 33:15 (7:23 pace) plus a cool. I think I am recovered from the antibiotics and can cut the Mag back to normal (500 mg). I had diarrhea again and had to take a walk break until I found a Port-a-John so hopefully that issue will go away soon. Overall, not bad on the run today.
Update: This one is big. I have learned that magnesium is required for serotonin production thanks to Livestrong. Based on how I feel, I strongly suspect a low serotonin level. I will NEVER take an SSRI anti-depressant again but 5-HTP might be worth a try. I haven't taken anything for neurotransmitters since 2010 so I feel like I'm going backwards. I can't predict the results but if I do take it, I hope it will be only temporary. Still, no need for Thym-Adren.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.0
9/14- Turned 33 years old today. Pretty decent run on a beautiful day. Clear skies and temps in the 60s this morning. 12 mile run with the Gnomes in 91:57 (7:40 pace). Groin was giving out near the end but outside of that, I felt good. I could not find anyone who matched my pace. It was either over-8 or sub-7:20. I believe this is my longest run since early April. I'm going to try the 5-HTP now and hope to get a clear "yes" or "no" answer quickly.
-The 5-HTP is a clear NO. That's okay. I'll just stick with the Cal/Mag. Good day nonetheless. I may struggle a bit tomorrow.
Grade:B+/2 credits/distance=12.0
9/15- Very sleepy from the 5-HTP. Slept in until 10:30 then had to take an afternoon nap. Waited until 4 PM to run and it was a good call. 5 miles in 37:50 (7:34 pace). Not a bad run overall. Faded to 7:42s in the last 2 miles. It's Cal/Mag or bust and I've reached the end of the line.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=5.0
Weekly summary:
With this loss, I have guaranteed a sub-3.0 for the year and need to go 11-4 just to finish at .500. I did have a half decent end to week and hope to build on it going forward.
Distance=38.0/GPA= 20.5/8= 2.56
YTD: 1,288 miles. 14-21 with a 2.55 GPA.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Training 9/2-9/8
9/2- AM. Measly 2 miles in 17:24 (8:42 pace). I'd like to think that I'm not recovered from Saturday but it was obvious that it was too much Thym-Adren because I got worse after an extra pill. Is this a temporary reaction or a permanent adjustment? I'm betting that it is the latter because I was clean yesterday and did okay. It seems unlikely that I need Fructosin because I was slightly better after drinking some Gatorade. 1st mile was 8:53, 2nd was 8:31 after the Gatorade. Nevertheless, I will rule out the Fructosin later and probably endure a rotten day off. I may attempt another run this evening.
PM- Slightly worse after taking Fructosin. We shall see what happens with the Thym-Adren. I jogged a mile naked at a pace over 10.
Grade:F/1 credit/distance=3.0
9/3- MAD AS HELL! Once again, I am shooting at a moving target. Only one week ago, I needed mega doses of Thym-Adren. Now, I am rapidly trending down and will likely be off it by the end of the week. Today, I did an aggressive cut from 8 pills down to 4. 4 pills were still too many! I have been alcohol and caffeine free for 3 days and now I'll bet that the drinking on Saturday didn't hurt me after all. I was going downhill over the weekend but didn't recognize the reason.
Today's workout was 3 miles at Golds and got a small incremental improvement. Finished in 23:30 (7:50 pace) with splits of 7:30-7:50-8:10. Popped a 5th pill just to see what would happen and turned in a hard fought 8:47 in Mile 4.
Grade:D+/1 credit/distance=4.0
9/4- Well, it's official now. For the 3rd time this year, I have been forced off Thym-Adren, which has spelled disaster in the past. I can only hope that Cal/Mag malate will do the job that citrate failed to do. It was another aggressive cut to 2 pills today and it was 2 too many. I can envision going back and forth from Thym-Adren to Cal/Mag in a never ending cycle. That would suck real bad!
I got a very modest improvement over yesterday. 3 miles at Gold's in 23:06 (7:42 pace) plus a Mile cool. In other news, a toothache began on Monday and got progressively worse. I went to the denty and sure enough, I needed a root canal and had to pay $300. Did the oral infection effect my balance? Since it was a short-term issue, the answer is "Possible but unlikely." Still, there is a decent chance that I could be right back on mega Thym-Adren again by next week.
Grade:C/1 credit/distance=4.0
9/5- Body was weak from the antibiotics and loopy from the pain pills but performed well when called upon. Today was my first day off the Thym-Adren and I could not have asked for better. 5 miles at Gold's in 36:25 (7:17 pace). Ran like a machine. The average pace was 7:17 and my SLOWEST mile was #3 at 7:19. Very smooth and relaxed. The only downer was a bit of muscle soreness in the groin but it should not be anything to worry about. 5 more days on the antibiotics, which could be rough. I did pick up some probiotics at GNC today and ate some yogurt for breakfast.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=5.5
9/6- Salazar 300s at Hoover @ 5:15ish pace. 10 reps in sets of 2 with only a 1 min R. 1st 9 were all between 58.7-59.4 then turned it up a notch with a 54.7 finish. Decent workout. I'm doing okay without the Thym-Adren but the antibiotic use is leaving me weak. I have only 4 days left on those suckers and will be over halfway done tomorrow. Probiotics help but do not offset the damage. After the infection clears and I'm off the antibiotics, I could find myself back on the Thym-Adren next week. If I am able to run both days this weekend, I will not count Monday's debacle against my GPA for the week.
Grade:B/2 credit/distance=2.5
9/7- AM- 1 mile at snail's pace. I am really hurting from the antibiotics now. 3 days to go after today too. I must load on probiotics to get through it.
PM- 1 mile on Wisteria in 9:44 with splits of 4:42-5:02. No comments needed. I've never had this bad of a reaction to antibiotics before so I am concerned.
Grade:F/1 credit/distance=2.0
9/8-PATHETIC! 3 miles in 26:27 (8:49 pace). Woke up with intolerable fatigue and popped 3 SBF pills. Just a temporary measure to cope with the antibiotics. I was noticeably better than yesterday.
Grade:D-/1 credit/distance=3.0
Weekly summary:
No comments.
Distance=24.0/ GPA= 12.7/8= 1.59
YTD: 1,250 miles. 14-20 with a 2.54 GPA
PM- Slightly worse after taking Fructosin. We shall see what happens with the Thym-Adren. I jogged a mile naked at a pace over 10.
Grade:F/1 credit/distance=3.0
9/3- MAD AS HELL! Once again, I am shooting at a moving target. Only one week ago, I needed mega doses of Thym-Adren. Now, I am rapidly trending down and will likely be off it by the end of the week. Today, I did an aggressive cut from 8 pills down to 4. 4 pills were still too many! I have been alcohol and caffeine free for 3 days and now I'll bet that the drinking on Saturday didn't hurt me after all. I was going downhill over the weekend but didn't recognize the reason.
Today's workout was 3 miles at Golds and got a small incremental improvement. Finished in 23:30 (7:50 pace) with splits of 7:30-7:50-8:10. Popped a 5th pill just to see what would happen and turned in a hard fought 8:47 in Mile 4.
Grade:D+/1 credit/distance=4.0
9/4- Well, it's official now. For the 3rd time this year, I have been forced off Thym-Adren, which has spelled disaster in the past. I can only hope that Cal/Mag malate will do the job that citrate failed to do. It was another aggressive cut to 2 pills today and it was 2 too many. I can envision going back and forth from Thym-Adren to Cal/Mag in a never ending cycle. That would suck real bad!
I got a very modest improvement over yesterday. 3 miles at Gold's in 23:06 (7:42 pace) plus a Mile cool. In other news, a toothache began on Monday and got progressively worse. I went to the denty and sure enough, I needed a root canal and had to pay $300. Did the oral infection effect my balance? Since it was a short-term issue, the answer is "Possible but unlikely." Still, there is a decent chance that I could be right back on mega Thym-Adren again by next week.
Grade:C/1 credit/distance=4.0
9/5- Body was weak from the antibiotics and loopy from the pain pills but performed well when called upon. Today was my first day off the Thym-Adren and I could not have asked for better. 5 miles at Gold's in 36:25 (7:17 pace). Ran like a machine. The average pace was 7:17 and my SLOWEST mile was #3 at 7:19. Very smooth and relaxed. The only downer was a bit of muscle soreness in the groin but it should not be anything to worry about. 5 more days on the antibiotics, which could be rough. I did pick up some probiotics at GNC today and ate some yogurt for breakfast.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=5.5
9/6- Salazar 300s at Hoover @ 5:15ish pace. 10 reps in sets of 2 with only a 1 min R. 1st 9 were all between 58.7-59.4 then turned it up a notch with a 54.7 finish. Decent workout. I'm doing okay without the Thym-Adren but the antibiotic use is leaving me weak. I have only 4 days left on those suckers and will be over halfway done tomorrow. Probiotics help but do not offset the damage. After the infection clears and I'm off the antibiotics, I could find myself back on the Thym-Adren next week. If I am able to run both days this weekend, I will not count Monday's debacle against my GPA for the week.
Grade:B/2 credit/distance=2.5
9/7- AM- 1 mile at snail's pace. I am really hurting from the antibiotics now. 3 days to go after today too. I must load on probiotics to get through it.
PM- 1 mile on Wisteria in 9:44 with splits of 4:42-5:02. No comments needed. I've never had this bad of a reaction to antibiotics before so I am concerned.
Grade:F/1 credit/distance=2.0
9/8-PATHETIC! 3 miles in 26:27 (8:49 pace). Woke up with intolerable fatigue and popped 3 SBF pills. Just a temporary measure to cope with the antibiotics. I was noticeably better than yesterday.
Grade:D-/1 credit/distance=3.0
Weekly summary:
No comments.
Distance=24.0/ GPA= 12.7/8= 1.59
YTD: 1,250 miles. 14-20 with a 2.54 GPA
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
International travel
I've mentioned on here before that I have been to all 48 contiguous US states plus 5 foreign countries (Canada, Bermuda, Spain, France, Italy). A new travel goal has emerged: Visit every inhabited continent. So far, all I've got down is North America and Europe. Here are a few other places I would like to go besides Alaska and Hawaii:
Canada: I have no desire to visit every province here but would like to expand on my current tally. I have been to Ontario 3 times, with a day trip from Buffalo to Toronto being most memorable. Also, I was in Quebec when I was very young. I'd like to take a tour of the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia). There are several good races in that area and it could make for a cool summer get away. I could check off all 3 on a single trip.
Calgary has race on Memorial Day weekend and I hear that the Canadian Rockies are really beautiful. I could drive from Spokane and check off British Columbia and Alberta.
Lastly, the Detroit Free Press race is on my list largely because it actually crosses into Canada.
Europe-I'd like to return here at some point. If I am to re-visit Europe, London would be a clear #1 choice.
South America:I probably should bone up on my Spanish if I am to go here. My first choice would probably be Lima, Peru and the Andes Mountains. Lima does have a marathon/half and it appears to be a really nice course plus I can get there on a direct flight from Atlanta for just over $1K. I've seen pictures of Maccu Piccu (sp?) and was blown away.
Australia-This is probably the one that I have the most desire to see but it's also the toughest trip. If I have to choose a city to target, it would probably be Sydney and possibly Melbourne on the same trip. I can plan to go whenever the big marathon/half marathon takes place.
Israel- My friend Kevin went there this past year and loved it. As a Christian, I have my special reasons for wanting to visit. For the record, Kevin said that he never felt unsafe and the biggest takeaway was that you will never look at Scripture in the same way after you've been to those sites.
Asia- Hong Kong is my number one choice here with Tokyo as a close second. My parents went to HK about 30 years ago and really enjoyed it. Also, the marathon/half is much easier to get in than Tokyo.
Africa- Durban and/or Cape Town, South Africa. Durban is on the coast of the Indian Ocean and is home to the world famous Comrades Marathon, which attracts runners from every corner of the world. Also, the 2 Oceans Marathon/half in Cape Town is the self-proclaimed "most beautiful" in the world. I've seen video of the course and it may be the truth. Both cities are reportedly safe for tourists and have plenty of nice areas worth seeing.
As a bit of an aside, in my days as a student, I have met people from all over the world. Just off the top of my head, here's a list of countries from which I met a student:
Brazil, Columbia, Congo, Uganda, Japan, Bangladesh, India, China, Russia, Bulgaria, Trinidad, Great Britain, Turkey, Singapore, Spain, Vietnam.
Canada: I have no desire to visit every province here but would like to expand on my current tally. I have been to Ontario 3 times, with a day trip from Buffalo to Toronto being most memorable. Also, I was in Quebec when I was very young. I'd like to take a tour of the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia). There are several good races in that area and it could make for a cool summer get away. I could check off all 3 on a single trip.
Calgary has race on Memorial Day weekend and I hear that the Canadian Rockies are really beautiful. I could drive from Spokane and check off British Columbia and Alberta.
Lastly, the Detroit Free Press race is on my list largely because it actually crosses into Canada.
Europe-I'd like to return here at some point. If I am to re-visit Europe, London would be a clear #1 choice.
South America:I probably should bone up on my Spanish if I am to go here. My first choice would probably be Lima, Peru and the Andes Mountains. Lima does have a marathon/half and it appears to be a really nice course plus I can get there on a direct flight from Atlanta for just over $1K. I've seen pictures of Maccu Piccu (sp?) and was blown away.
Australia-This is probably the one that I have the most desire to see but it's also the toughest trip. If I have to choose a city to target, it would probably be Sydney and possibly Melbourne on the same trip. I can plan to go whenever the big marathon/half marathon takes place.
Israel- My friend Kevin went there this past year and loved it. As a Christian, I have my special reasons for wanting to visit. For the record, Kevin said that he never felt unsafe and the biggest takeaway was that you will never look at Scripture in the same way after you've been to those sites.
Asia- Hong Kong is my number one choice here with Tokyo as a close second. My parents went to HK about 30 years ago and really enjoyed it. Also, the marathon/half is much easier to get in than Tokyo.
Africa- Durban and/or Cape Town, South Africa. Durban is on the coast of the Indian Ocean and is home to the world famous Comrades Marathon, which attracts runners from every corner of the world. Also, the 2 Oceans Marathon/half in Cape Town is the self-proclaimed "most beautiful" in the world. I've seen video of the course and it may be the truth. Both cities are reportedly safe for tourists and have plenty of nice areas worth seeing.
As a bit of an aside, in my days as a student, I have met people from all over the world. Just off the top of my head, here's a list of countries from which I met a student:
Brazil, Columbia, Congo, Uganda, Japan, Bangladesh, India, China, Russia, Bulgaria, Trinidad, Great Britain, Turkey, Singapore, Spain, Vietnam.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Training 8/26-9/1
8/26- Well, I said earlier that I NEVER EVER x infinity want to go back to X # of pills per day or else but that is exactly what has happened. That said, it sure beats having to deal with the intolerable fatigue and depression that I had last week. I am back on mega Thym-Adren plus 750mg each of Cal and Mag malate but no need for Fructosin yet. I can only hope that the precise Cal/Mag ratio will eventually reduce my extreme dependence on Thym-Adren. I KNOW that if I am able to take it consistently, it will normalize my Na and K values AND keep that critical ratio in the "good" range. What is just as important is less clear. Will the magnesium malate correct the Mag deficiency without disturbing the other key minerals and ratios?
As for today's workout, it went pretty well. We got out first taste of Fall today with temps in the low 80s and a dewpoint of 60. Lakeshore 5 in 37:20 (7:28 pace) in a comfortably moderate effort. Slight negative split too (18:44-18:36). Added a mile cool. Tomorrow, I will attempt to go back to the Mag with B-6.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/27- First full day on the new formula (750 Cal/Mg + Thym-Adren). It went well enough overall. Workout was a short tempo. 3 miles in 19:59 (6:40 pace). Splits were 6:30-6:52-6:37. 3 hard 200s then a cool. Felt decent but not great. May need to tweak the calcium. I'm striving for a 1:1 ratio but if I am to take a little more of 1 of the 2, it should be magnesium.
Grade:B/2 credit/distance=4.0
8/28- Tweaked the formula a bit so that I am now taking slightly more Mag than Cal. I may have to cut pills in half to reach a state of equilibrium. Once again, the workout went well. Trak Shak 6.5 loop in 47:28 (7:18 pace) plus a cool. Faded a bit on the hills at the end but strong overall. I can still feel the imbalances holding me back but my chemistry is clearly in a state of flux now. I wanted to do 8 but felt a little overheated and did not chance it. Weather was sunny and 85 with a 65 dewpoint. Not bad for late summer but far from ideal for distance running.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
8/29- Speed workout. Both Vestavia and Mountain Brook were closed due to JV football games. It can be hard to find a track in the Spring and Fall. Ended up at South Lakeshore as a last resort. Workout was 8x400 in :83 (5:30 ish pace) with a range of 78-86. R was 2 min. static and added a half mile warm and cool. The road is slightly sloped so it should be a hair slower than on a track but this is a far cry from my 75s at my peak. Average performance overall. Plenty of energy during the day but felt a little off during the workout. Maybe I am over-reaching a bit but more likely, I need to cut the Mag just a bit. Ratio should be near 1:1 but today, it was more like 2 parts Cal: 3 parts Mag. Just 1 pill can make a difference. ARRGH!
Grade:B-/2 credits/distance=3.0
8/30- Settled on around 600 mg of each and at least for this week, it is a winning formula. Next week? Don't know. Easy 6 at Golds in a time of 44:18 (7:23 pace). Smooth and relaxed with a nice even pace (22:06/22:12). This would have been a solid "A" if not for some minor stomach discomfort.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/31- Planned rest day. Heading to Clemson for the football game. As of now, I'd prefer to stay on my routine because I'm finally getting it together but I'm not backing out after I've already said yes. I need only a "C-" tomorrow to get a win.
9/1- The Clemson game was a thriller but it was a mistake to get out of my routine and I'll explain later. Rather lame 4 miler in 31:23 (7:51 pace) but I still get the win. Given what happened yesterday (3 AM bed time + too much drinking and garbage food), it was an accomplishment just to get out there and run today. I've got to say "no" to friends more often.
Grade:C+/1 credit/distance=4.0
Weekly summary:
Win #14 on the year. At least for now, I may have found a solution. I MUST stick to my routine for the next few weeks. I just hope that I can bounce back quickly from this lapse. A new Rant post is coming so stay tuned.
Distance=30.0/ GPA= 24.8/8= 3.10
As for today's workout, it went pretty well. We got out first taste of Fall today with temps in the low 80s and a dewpoint of 60. Lakeshore 5 in 37:20 (7:28 pace) in a comfortably moderate effort. Slight negative split too (18:44-18:36). Added a mile cool. Tomorrow, I will attempt to go back to the Mag with B-6.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/27- First full day on the new formula (750 Cal/Mg + Thym-Adren). It went well enough overall. Workout was a short tempo. 3 miles in 19:59 (6:40 pace). Splits were 6:30-6:52-6:37. 3 hard 200s then a cool. Felt decent but not great. May need to tweak the calcium. I'm striving for a 1:1 ratio but if I am to take a little more of 1 of the 2, it should be magnesium.
Grade:B/2 credit/distance=4.0
8/28- Tweaked the formula a bit so that I am now taking slightly more Mag than Cal. I may have to cut pills in half to reach a state of equilibrium. Once again, the workout went well. Trak Shak 6.5 loop in 47:28 (7:18 pace) plus a cool. Faded a bit on the hills at the end but strong overall. I can still feel the imbalances holding me back but my chemistry is clearly in a state of flux now. I wanted to do 8 but felt a little overheated and did not chance it. Weather was sunny and 85 with a 65 dewpoint. Not bad for late summer but far from ideal for distance running.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
8/29- Speed workout. Both Vestavia and Mountain Brook were closed due to JV football games. It can be hard to find a track in the Spring and Fall. Ended up at South Lakeshore as a last resort. Workout was 8x400 in :83 (5:30 ish pace) with a range of 78-86. R was 2 min. static and added a half mile warm and cool. The road is slightly sloped so it should be a hair slower than on a track but this is a far cry from my 75s at my peak. Average performance overall. Plenty of energy during the day but felt a little off during the workout. Maybe I am over-reaching a bit but more likely, I need to cut the Mag just a bit. Ratio should be near 1:1 but today, it was more like 2 parts Cal: 3 parts Mag. Just 1 pill can make a difference. ARRGH!
Grade:B-/2 credits/distance=3.0
8/30- Settled on around 600 mg of each and at least for this week, it is a winning formula. Next week? Don't know. Easy 6 at Golds in a time of 44:18 (7:23 pace). Smooth and relaxed with a nice even pace (22:06/22:12). This would have been a solid "A" if not for some minor stomach discomfort.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/31- Planned rest day. Heading to Clemson for the football game. As of now, I'd prefer to stay on my routine because I'm finally getting it together but I'm not backing out after I've already said yes. I need only a "C-" tomorrow to get a win.
9/1- The Clemson game was a thriller but it was a mistake to get out of my routine and I'll explain later. Rather lame 4 miler in 31:23 (7:51 pace) but I still get the win. Given what happened yesterday (3 AM bed time + too much drinking and garbage food), it was an accomplishment just to get out there and run today. I've got to say "no" to friends more often.
Grade:C+/1 credit/distance=4.0
Weekly summary:
Win #14 on the year. At least for now, I may have found a solution. I MUST stick to my routine for the next few weeks. I just hope that I can bounce back quickly from this lapse. A new Rant post is coming so stay tuned.
Distance=30.0/ GPA= 24.8/8= 3.10
Monday, August 19, 2013
Training 8/19-8/25
8/19- Avoided the sticky-icky weather and stayed inside, which proved to be a good call because I had some mild stomach discomfort. Performance was about on par with yesterday but I felt that I had a bit more energy today. Finished 6 miles in 45:28 (7:35 pace) with a relatively even pace (22:36/22:54) but I did have some hamstring soreness.
Medical update: I've recently read an article that said that in some cases, old meds become toxic when starting Mag supplements so I feel a little better about being forced off the Thym-Adren. I'm taking Mag without calcium, which may or may not be good call. I'll know when the medical report comes in.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/20- Unplanned rest day. Feel flat out terrible. Yesterday's run should not have taken this much out of me. It could be the B-6 trouble again or it could be the lack of calcium. I have ordered Jigsaw Cal. If it is B-6, that means that I cannot take the Jigsaw Mag. I'll have to rely on the Mag malate and must be careful about the dosage.
Update: Barely made it through the day at work. It appears that yes, B-6 is the problem and based on my history, for some reason, I can only tolerate it if I am taking Thym-Adren. The only problem is that I still cannot tolerate Thym-Adren. Adding some Calcium should not hurt but the ratio of Cal/Mag should be near 1:1.
PM- Decided to do a junk run and clocked 1 Mile in blazing time of 9:49. For some reason, I have an irrational hope that adding back some Calcium will allow me to tolerate some Thym-Adren and hence, the Jigsaw Mag. My worst fear is that taking extra Mag in any form will always force me off it. If that's true, it is all over. I'll never be healthy again.
UPDATE: This one is big! Thanks to the Livestrong website, I've learned that my B-6 intolerance is likely due to an extreme imbalance in my Ca/K ratio. Adding some Ca is definitely a good call now. Is there any chance that it will allow me to tolerate Thym-Adren?
8/21- Trak Shak 3 in 25:58 (8:39 pace). Pace was even and felt relatively comfortable. I could have gone 5-6 miles today but I could not pick up any speed at all. I felt substantially WORSE after taking the Mag this morning. I need more calcium for sure. The only thing that is certain about my chemistry right now is that my Ca/K is very low (1.4 or below vs an ideal of 4). That indicates thyroid hyper-function. My Mag had BETTER be up and I hope that I've taken my high Ca/Mg too far in the opposite direction, not just lowered the ratio closer to normal. I have learned that a chronic Mag deficiency puts you at risk for heart disease too. The B-6 intolerance does not necessarily mean that my Na/K or Na/Mg (adrenal) is bad but it's surely not a good sign.
Also, I cannot take any old calcium from Wal-Mart. I need calcium malate, which had to be ordered online. It's hard to find Cal alone too. It's usually packaged with Mag in citrate or oxide form, which I cannot tolerate. The pills will not arrive until Friday so tomorrow will be only slightly better.
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=3.0
8/22- Gold's 5 indoors. It thundered but the rain never came. It went as expected. I was struggling to stay focused at work again and was only slightly better in my workout. Finished in 41:45 (8:21 pace). Started off at 8:00 pace then gradually faded but never went much over 8:30. No Cal this evening but there is a chance that they could be there by lunchtime tomorrow. I took nothing today.
Grade:C-/1 credit/distance=5.0
8/23- Unplanned rest day. Feel terrible and have a tender Achilles. Not worth it to chance it. Pills have not arrived but according to the tracker, it should be here tomorrow.
Grade:F/1 credits/distance=0
8/24- The pills arrived around 9:45 AM. I took 2 calcium pills immediately. It was not a magical cure, nor was I expecting one but I did get the solid incremental improvement that I had hoped for. Gold's 5 miler in 39:39 (7:56 pace). That's still BAAAAUHD! Gradually faded after a pretty good start. Splits were roughly 19:30-20:06 and the slowest was Mile 4 at 8:15. I'll count this as my tempo on the week and I get a passing grade for finishing. Going for 10 tomorrow and I don't care if I have to walk part of it.
Grade:D/2 credit/distance=5.0
8/25- There was a shift overnight and not in a good way. I hit Lakeshore at 7 AM intending to run a very slow 10 miler. I had to turn around after only 0.75 miles and finished the 1.5 miler in a time of 14:52 (9:55 pace). Fortunately, I brought the bottle of Thym-Adren with me because I thought I might need it again. I got back to my car, popped 2 pills and got a quick drink before heading back out there again. Just like yesterday, there was no magic but I did feel noticeably better within minutes. Finished the 5 mile out and back on the trail in 43:20 (8:40 pace) with a strongly negative split. 1st half: 22:18, 2nd half: 21:02. Fastest was Mile 5 at 7:45. Added a cool.
PM- 2 mile junk run on Wisteria just because I was bored and felt like doing something. Finished in a solid 14:40 (7:20 pace) with the down side in 7:12 and the up side in 7:28.
Grade:F+/2 credits/distance=7.0
Weekly summary:
My worst non-injury week on record. It appears that I may be right back to where I started. I need a set amount of Cal/Mag every day and a set amount of Thym-Adren. If I miss even one dose, I'm screwed. Also, I will likely be shooting at moving targets. Who knows what will work for me next week? What a life I've got! Still, what I just described is better than intolerable and unrelenting fatigue and depression if I do not take the pills.
Distance=29.0/ GPA= 8.3/8= 1.04
Medical update: I've recently read an article that said that in some cases, old meds become toxic when starting Mag supplements so I feel a little better about being forced off the Thym-Adren. I'm taking Mag without calcium, which may or may not be good call. I'll know when the medical report comes in.
Grade:B/1 credit/distance=6.0
8/20- Unplanned rest day. Feel flat out terrible. Yesterday's run should not have taken this much out of me. It could be the B-6 trouble again or it could be the lack of calcium. I have ordered Jigsaw Cal. If it is B-6, that means that I cannot take the Jigsaw Mag. I'll have to rely on the Mag malate and must be careful about the dosage.
Update: Barely made it through the day at work. It appears that yes, B-6 is the problem and based on my history, for some reason, I can only tolerate it if I am taking Thym-Adren. The only problem is that I still cannot tolerate Thym-Adren. Adding some Calcium should not hurt but the ratio of Cal/Mag should be near 1:1.
PM- Decided to do a junk run and clocked 1 Mile in blazing time of 9:49. For some reason, I have an irrational hope that adding back some Calcium will allow me to tolerate some Thym-Adren and hence, the Jigsaw Mag. My worst fear is that taking extra Mag in any form will always force me off it. If that's true, it is all over. I'll never be healthy again.
UPDATE: This one is big! Thanks to the Livestrong website, I've learned that my B-6 intolerance is likely due to an extreme imbalance in my Ca/K ratio. Adding some Ca is definitely a good call now. Is there any chance that it will allow me to tolerate Thym-Adren?
8/21- Trak Shak 3 in 25:58 (8:39 pace). Pace was even and felt relatively comfortable. I could have gone 5-6 miles today but I could not pick up any speed at all. I felt substantially WORSE after taking the Mag this morning. I need more calcium for sure. The only thing that is certain about my chemistry right now is that my Ca/K is very low (1.4 or below vs an ideal of 4). That indicates thyroid hyper-function. My Mag had BETTER be up and I hope that I've taken my high Ca/Mg too far in the opposite direction, not just lowered the ratio closer to normal. I have learned that a chronic Mag deficiency puts you at risk for heart disease too. The B-6 intolerance does not necessarily mean that my Na/K or Na/Mg (adrenal) is bad but it's surely not a good sign.
Also, I cannot take any old calcium from Wal-Mart. I need calcium malate, which had to be ordered online. It's hard to find Cal alone too. It's usually packaged with Mag in citrate or oxide form, which I cannot tolerate. The pills will not arrive until Friday so tomorrow will be only slightly better.
Grade:D/1 credit/distance=3.0
8/22- Gold's 5 indoors. It thundered but the rain never came. It went as expected. I was struggling to stay focused at work again and was only slightly better in my workout. Finished in 41:45 (8:21 pace). Started off at 8:00 pace then gradually faded but never went much over 8:30. No Cal this evening but there is a chance that they could be there by lunchtime tomorrow. I took nothing today.
Grade:C-/1 credit/distance=5.0
8/23- Unplanned rest day. Feel terrible and have a tender Achilles. Not worth it to chance it. Pills have not arrived but according to the tracker, it should be here tomorrow.
Grade:F/1 credits/distance=0
8/24- The pills arrived around 9:45 AM. I took 2 calcium pills immediately. It was not a magical cure, nor was I expecting one but I did get the solid incremental improvement that I had hoped for. Gold's 5 miler in 39:39 (7:56 pace). That's still BAAAAUHD! Gradually faded after a pretty good start. Splits were roughly 19:30-20:06 and the slowest was Mile 4 at 8:15. I'll count this as my tempo on the week and I get a passing grade for finishing. Going for 10 tomorrow and I don't care if I have to walk part of it.
Grade:D/2 credit/distance=5.0
8/25- There was a shift overnight and not in a good way. I hit Lakeshore at 7 AM intending to run a very slow 10 miler. I had to turn around after only 0.75 miles and finished the 1.5 miler in a time of 14:52 (9:55 pace). Fortunately, I brought the bottle of Thym-Adren with me because I thought I might need it again. I got back to my car, popped 2 pills and got a quick drink before heading back out there again. Just like yesterday, there was no magic but I did feel noticeably better within minutes. Finished the 5 mile out and back on the trail in 43:20 (8:40 pace) with a strongly negative split. 1st half: 22:18, 2nd half: 21:02. Fastest was Mile 5 at 7:45. Added a cool.
PM- 2 mile junk run on Wisteria just because I was bored and felt like doing something. Finished in a solid 14:40 (7:20 pace) with the down side in 7:12 and the up side in 7:28.
Grade:F+/2 credits/distance=7.0
Weekly summary:
My worst non-injury week on record. It appears that I may be right back to where I started. I need a set amount of Cal/Mag every day and a set amount of Thym-Adren. If I miss even one dose, I'm screwed. Also, I will likely be shooting at moving targets. Who knows what will work for me next week? What a life I've got! Still, what I just described is better than intolerable and unrelenting fatigue and depression if I do not take the pills.
Distance=29.0/ GPA= 8.3/8= 1.04
Friday, August 16, 2013
Magnesium and Thym-Adren
Dr. J is back and this post is largely for my reference. Here goes:
In retrospect, I began having symptoms of magnesium deficiency since 2011. My hair test had been consistently showing a tissue magnesium level no higher than 3 since 2009 and usually had been stuck at 2 (ideal is 6), leading to extreme imbalances in my Na/Mg (adrenal ratio) and Ca/Mg (blood sugar). My best race to date is the 3M half in Texas in January of 2012 (1:28:12) but even then, I was not even close to balance. My claim that I have elite potential that is consistently being stolen from me does bear much weight given the times that I have achieved in spite of the imbalances.
I found that during periods in which I basically abstained from caffeine and limited my sugar and alcohol, my performances would improve significantly. Because caffeine depletes magnesium, this makes total sense now. However, in the end, it proved to be not enough to stave off deficiency symptoms despite the fact that I had been taking a Cal/Mag supplement. It got to the point in which I could not even tolerate those Naked Juice smoothies with no sugar added. Fortunately, I was able to enjoy another good stretch of running from October 2012-January 2013 thanks to a product called Fructosin, which acts to convert fructose to glucose thanks to the enzyme xylose isomerase. I still endorse that product but have since learned that fructose malabsorption is linked to a magnesium deficiency and while fructosin does eliminate the symptoms of sugar intolerance, it does nothing to raise tissue magnesium levels and is also very pricey.
Fast forward to March 2013- my medical report looked as good as it ever had with 3 of the 4 key electrolytes (Ca, Na and K) all within the normal range but that darn magnesium remained stuck at 2 and the symptoms of a high Ca/Mg ratio became more problematic that the high Na/Mg. I responded by adding more Mag to my formula in the form of Magnesium citrate. After 2-3 glorious days, I went steadily downhill and eventually reached a point in with my body rejected the Mag citrate, leaving me with overwhelming fatigue and depression if I took any. Okay, so now the medical report should show my Mag is no longer a problem right? Wrong! The Mag rose only 1 point while the Na and K went through the roof again.
In June 2013, as a last resort, I tried some transdermal magnesium gel in the form of magnesium chloride. The company made some hard to believe claims such as the following:
-no chance of an overdose because the skin has a unique ability to self-regulate
-it can regulate other chemicals in the cells; thus, no need for other supplements to balance cell chemistry. Therefore, instead of 12+ pills, I can simply rub some gel on my skin.
The result:
I have mixed reviews on this product. The good is that since starting it, my summer allergies have been almost non-existent. Also, I was able to get off both Thym-Adren and Fructosin while my training runs improved gradually. However, once again, I was not "freed" from the pills. I was forced off. Taking a single Thym-Adren made me sick. That's very unusual and made me feel uneasy. Too much gel caused a mild rash, some urinary retention and sore muscles. Finally, I read an article from a trustworthy source that using transdermal magnesium often causes a low Na/K ratio. That's one of the key indicators of adrenal fatigue and that result must be avoided at all costs.
In conclusion:
I plan on using the transdermal magnesium on an occasional basis at least until the next medical report. Slathering it on every day like suntan lotion is not the answer. The only thing that has PROVEN to be effective in BOTH lowering my Na and K AND keeping that all-important ratio where it should be (between 2.5-4.0) is Thym-Adren. I have found that after starting magnesium malate, I have had more energy this week that I've had for 6 months. In addition, it has been the recommended source for athletes with chronic fatigue. Moreover, research shows that it is effective in detoxing Aluminum, which has always been mildly high on my report. High levels of Al have been linked to dementia and there is some Alzheimer's in my family. I've determined that I will not fall prey to it.
Future:
I'm fine with having a need to take pills but NOT okay with a "desperate need." As of now, if I miss a day or two of pills, I will be okay and that's how I want to keep it. Once again, it is not the imbalances that prevent me from dating, it is the INSTABILITY. I NEVER EVER x infinity want to go back to X # per day or else while shooting at a moving target. I'm going with Mag malate, Thym-Adren and Mag chloride up to but not past the point of Thym-Adren intolerance. I still don't know how this will all play out but I do have some new hope.
In retrospect, I began having symptoms of magnesium deficiency since 2011. My hair test had been consistently showing a tissue magnesium level no higher than 3 since 2009 and usually had been stuck at 2 (ideal is 6), leading to extreme imbalances in my Na/Mg (adrenal ratio) and Ca/Mg (blood sugar). My best race to date is the 3M half in Texas in January of 2012 (1:28:12) but even then, I was not even close to balance. My claim that I have elite potential that is consistently being stolen from me does bear much weight given the times that I have achieved in spite of the imbalances.
I found that during periods in which I basically abstained from caffeine and limited my sugar and alcohol, my performances would improve significantly. Because caffeine depletes magnesium, this makes total sense now. However, in the end, it proved to be not enough to stave off deficiency symptoms despite the fact that I had been taking a Cal/Mag supplement. It got to the point in which I could not even tolerate those Naked Juice smoothies with no sugar added. Fortunately, I was able to enjoy another good stretch of running from October 2012-January 2013 thanks to a product called Fructosin, which acts to convert fructose to glucose thanks to the enzyme xylose isomerase. I still endorse that product but have since learned that fructose malabsorption is linked to a magnesium deficiency and while fructosin does eliminate the symptoms of sugar intolerance, it does nothing to raise tissue magnesium levels and is also very pricey.
Fast forward to March 2013- my medical report looked as good as it ever had with 3 of the 4 key electrolytes (Ca, Na and K) all within the normal range but that darn magnesium remained stuck at 2 and the symptoms of a high Ca/Mg ratio became more problematic that the high Na/Mg. I responded by adding more Mag to my formula in the form of Magnesium citrate. After 2-3 glorious days, I went steadily downhill and eventually reached a point in with my body rejected the Mag citrate, leaving me with overwhelming fatigue and depression if I took any. Okay, so now the medical report should show my Mag is no longer a problem right? Wrong! The Mag rose only 1 point while the Na and K went through the roof again.
In June 2013, as a last resort, I tried some transdermal magnesium gel in the form of magnesium chloride. The company made some hard to believe claims such as the following:
-no chance of an overdose because the skin has a unique ability to self-regulate
-it can regulate other chemicals in the cells; thus, no need for other supplements to balance cell chemistry. Therefore, instead of 12+ pills, I can simply rub some gel on my skin.
The result:
I have mixed reviews on this product. The good is that since starting it, my summer allergies have been almost non-existent. Also, I was able to get off both Thym-Adren and Fructosin while my training runs improved gradually. However, once again, I was not "freed" from the pills. I was forced off. Taking a single Thym-Adren made me sick. That's very unusual and made me feel uneasy. Too much gel caused a mild rash, some urinary retention and sore muscles. Finally, I read an article from a trustworthy source that using transdermal magnesium often causes a low Na/K ratio. That's one of the key indicators of adrenal fatigue and that result must be avoided at all costs.
In conclusion:
I plan on using the transdermal magnesium on an occasional basis at least until the next medical report. Slathering it on every day like suntan lotion is not the answer. The only thing that has PROVEN to be effective in BOTH lowering my Na and K AND keeping that all-important ratio where it should be (between 2.5-4.0) is Thym-Adren. I have found that after starting magnesium malate, I have had more energy this week that I've had for 6 months. In addition, it has been the recommended source for athletes with chronic fatigue. Moreover, research shows that it is effective in detoxing Aluminum, which has always been mildly high on my report. High levels of Al have been linked to dementia and there is some Alzheimer's in my family. I've determined that I will not fall prey to it.
Future:
I'm fine with having a need to take pills but NOT okay with a "desperate need." As of now, if I miss a day or two of pills, I will be okay and that's how I want to keep it. Once again, it is not the imbalances that prevent me from dating, it is the INSTABILITY. I NEVER EVER x infinity want to go back to X # per day or else while shooting at a moving target. I'm going with Mag malate, Thym-Adren and Mag chloride up to but not past the point of Thym-Adren intolerance. I still don't know how this will all play out but I do have some new hope.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Training 8/12-8/18
8/12- Mountain Brook loop in oppressive conditions (85 w/high humidity). This week's loop was Brownell to Canterbury to Country Club to Jack's Shell then down Montevallo to the finish. It was a hilly 5.4 mile loop and I stopped at 5 then treated the remainder as a cool down. Time was a very solid 36:29 (7:18 pace), a strong performance in tough conditions. Effort was moderate. Current formula is Mag chloride and Mag malate. If it fails to keep the Na and K in line, it will be Thym-Adren+C and Mag malate. I am cautiously optimistic heading forward. I've been off caffeine for 3 days but am still consuming too much sugar. That needs to change.
Grade: A-/1 credit/distance=5.5
8/13- Planned workout was Johnny's speed session. Did 2x400 in 81-79 then it started to storm so I hit Gold's gym and ran an easy 6 there. Time was a comfortable 44:47 (7:28 pace). Slowed just a tad towards the end (22:16/22:31) but this was a strong performance overall. A quarter mile warm and cool brought me up to 7 on the day. On another note, this has been one of the wettest summers that I can recall. It has not been real hot temp wise but the humidity sucks. I prefer 95 and dry to 85 and sticky. Bring on Fall. It's not far off now.
Update: I've ordered Jigsaw magnesium, which is basically another magnesium malate supplement with a few synergistic vitamins. It's also a better value for the money that what I currently take. I'm reducing the Mag chloride and stand by my previous assessment that too much can be harmful. Stopping it completely could force me back on the Thym-Adren. I'd prefer not to do that but if my hair test shows continued sky high Na and K, I have no other choice. Mag citrate was poison for me and threw the Na and K through the roof but that does not necessarily mean that Mag malate will.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
8/14- Thought about a rest day but the weather finally cleared and the dew point dropped to 70 so it didn't feel half bad out there. Trak Shak 7.5 mile loop in 55:50 (7:27 pace). Solid performance but this is not an "A" because I faded after Mile 5. I was doing 7:20 pace at that time but slipped to 7:40 over the final 2.5 and had to work just to maintain that. Went with all magnesium malate today and was pleased with the results. Hope this one won't hurt me tomorrow.
Grade:B+/1 credit/distance=7.5
8/15- BAFA day! 18th anniversary of my first HS cross-country practice, which was a big turning point in my life. I always like to do something special on this day if I can. What does BAFA mean? That's a secret of the team and I've sworn not to tell. It was a speed workout at Mountain Brook. 24x200 in sets of 6. R was 1 minute except for a quarter mile jog after every 6th rep. The first 23 were all between 37-40 with most of them being 39.x. Turned on the speed on #24 and clocked a solid 31.4 despite having to dodge a soccer player. Strong performance and feel like I could have done 37-38s. Unfortunately, plantar has flared up. Actually, it never fully went away. I will attempt to take Thym-Adren and see what happens. Tomorrow is a rest day so if it doesn't work, I'll be ready by Saturday. Enjoyed my warm and cool running with Kelly.
Grade:A-/2 credits/distance=5.0
8/16- Planned rest day. Took 2 Thym-Adren last night and seemed to tolerate it okay but 2 more the next morning was too much. I should be okay by tomorrow morning.
8/17- I was not okay for the long run. The Thym-Adren apparently still has not cleared and my plantar issues are getting worse. I will try to load on the Mag and have heard that it is a good treatment. My calf muscles are too tight and without sufficient Mag, they can't relax. 6 miles in 50:46 (8:28 pace) plus a cool. Was doing near 8:00 pace through 4 then finished with an 8:55 and 9:36. Ouch! Need a "C+" tomorrow with a distance of at least 10.5 for a win this week.
Grade:D+/1 credit/distance=6.5
8/18- Lakeshore double out and back in steady drizzle. Finished 10 miles in 76:47 (7:41 pace). Kinda meh on this one. Timewise, this is my best 10 miler since June but I was not pleased by how much I faded at the end. 1st half was 37:15 and I was actually holding back for a while. Then, I faded to a 39:32 and saw the pace go above 8 in Miles 8-9 then had to push for a 7:50 close. The Mag malate has a bit of a laxative effect but the Jigsaw Mag does not. I'm sticking with the Jigsaw for better or worse. The plantar is still there but it is not debilitating. I'm giving it 2 more weeks before I bite the bullet and go for prolo.
Grade:C+/2 credits/distance=10.5
Weekly summary:
Held on for the win despite the shaky weekend and topped 40 miles for the first time in a long time. I'm not in very good spirits right now. With problems from too much Mag chloride and malate and still being intolerant of Thym-Adren, Jigsaw Mag is all that I can take and since it contains B-6, I may have problems with it down the road. No time trials this week but if I ran one this weekend, I would have been going backwards.
Distance=42.0/GPA= 24.0/8= 3.00
YTD: 1,167 miles. 13-18 with a 2.63 GPA
Grade: A-/1 credit/distance=5.5
8/13- Planned workout was Johnny's speed session. Did 2x400 in 81-79 then it started to storm so I hit Gold's gym and ran an easy 6 there. Time was a comfortable 44:47 (7:28 pace). Slowed just a tad towards the end (22:16/22:31) but this was a strong performance overall. A quarter mile warm and cool brought me up to 7 on the day. On another note, this has been one of the wettest summers that I can recall. It has not been real hot temp wise but the humidity sucks. I prefer 95 and dry to 85 and sticky. Bring on Fall. It's not far off now.
Update: I've ordered Jigsaw magnesium, which is basically another magnesium malate supplement with a few synergistic vitamins. It's also a better value for the money that what I currently take. I'm reducing the Mag chloride and stand by my previous assessment that too much can be harmful. Stopping it completely could force me back on the Thym-Adren. I'd prefer not to do that but if my hair test shows continued sky high Na and K, I have no other choice. Mag citrate was poison for me and threw the Na and K through the roof but that does not necessarily mean that Mag malate will.
Grade:A-/1 credit/distance=7.0
8/14- Thought about a rest day but the weather finally cleared and the dew point dropped to 70 so it didn't feel half bad out there. Trak Shak 7.5 mile loop in 55:50 (7:27 pace). Solid performance but this is not an "A" because I faded after Mile 5. I was doing 7:20 pace at that time but slipped to 7:40 over the final 2.5 and had to work just to maintain that. Went with all magnesium malate today and was pleased with the results. Hope this one won't hurt me tomorrow.
Grade:B+/1 credit/distance=7.5
8/15- BAFA day! 18th anniversary of my first HS cross-country practice, which was a big turning point in my life. I always like to do something special on this day if I can. What does BAFA mean? That's a secret of the team and I've sworn not to tell. It was a speed workout at Mountain Brook. 24x200 in sets of 6. R was 1 minute except for a quarter mile jog after every 6th rep. The first 23 were all between 37-40 with most of them being 39.x. Turned on the speed on #24 and clocked a solid 31.4 despite having to dodge a soccer player. Strong performance and feel like I could have done 37-38s. Unfortunately, plantar has flared up. Actually, it never fully went away. I will attempt to take Thym-Adren and see what happens. Tomorrow is a rest day so if it doesn't work, I'll be ready by Saturday. Enjoyed my warm and cool running with Kelly.
Grade:A-/2 credits/distance=5.0
8/16- Planned rest day. Took 2 Thym-Adren last night and seemed to tolerate it okay but 2 more the next morning was too much. I should be okay by tomorrow morning.
8/17- I was not okay for the long run. The Thym-Adren apparently still has not cleared and my plantar issues are getting worse. I will try to load on the Mag and have heard that it is a good treatment. My calf muscles are too tight and without sufficient Mag, they can't relax. 6 miles in 50:46 (8:28 pace) plus a cool. Was doing near 8:00 pace through 4 then finished with an 8:55 and 9:36. Ouch! Need a "C+" tomorrow with a distance of at least 10.5 for a win this week.
Grade:D+/1 credit/distance=6.5
8/18- Lakeshore double out and back in steady drizzle. Finished 10 miles in 76:47 (7:41 pace). Kinda meh on this one. Timewise, this is my best 10 miler since June but I was not pleased by how much I faded at the end. 1st half was 37:15 and I was actually holding back for a while. Then, I faded to a 39:32 and saw the pace go above 8 in Miles 8-9 then had to push for a 7:50 close. The Mag malate has a bit of a laxative effect but the Jigsaw Mag does not. I'm sticking with the Jigsaw for better or worse. The plantar is still there but it is not debilitating. I'm giving it 2 more weeks before I bite the bullet and go for prolo.
Grade:C+/2 credits/distance=10.5
Weekly summary:
Held on for the win despite the shaky weekend and topped 40 miles for the first time in a long time. I'm not in very good spirits right now. With problems from too much Mag chloride and malate and still being intolerant of Thym-Adren, Jigsaw Mag is all that I can take and since it contains B-6, I may have problems with it down the road. No time trials this week but if I ran one this weekend, I would have been going backwards.
Distance=42.0/GPA= 24.0/8= 3.00
YTD: 1,167 miles. 13-18 with a 2.63 GPA
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