National University of Medical Sciences - USA

Free Meals and Free Transportation at the National University of Medical Sciences School of Medicine in Panama! 😀

Thank you to everyone who helped us choose a name for our new medical school. Based on your wonderful feedback, we have decided to use "School of Medicine." ❤️

This week, I am traveling to Panama to select a location for the future campus of the National University of Medical Sciences School of Medicine and start the process. We are also exploring the purchase of a building to serve as a student dormitory.

My goal is to create a home away from home for our students. Those staying in the dormitory will enjoy free meals and free transportation. Meals will be prepared using fresh, local, organic ingredients, and we will accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences, including vegan, carnivore, keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, halal, and kosher options.

In fact, all the pastries you see in the photos were made by me during the COVID years and are gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free! But I will not do teh cooking, I promise! 😀

We also plan to provide complimentary transportation throughout the day, whether students need to travel to campus, visit the city, enjoy the beach, or simply explore Panama. I want every student to have an enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable experience.

Panama has been very good to me since I became a permanent resident in 2018, and I am grateful for everything this country has provided. As a way of giving back, I intend to create employment opportunities for local residents. The current economic climate has been challenging, and when we recently advertised for an office assistant position, more than 2,450 people applied, including physicians, lawyers, engineers, and psychologists!

Many people in Panama are excited about the possibility of welcoming the country's first English-language medical school. Beyond educating future healthcare professionals, the project has the potential to create jobs, support local businesses, and bring students from around the world to Panama.

When I first considered this project, I was nervous about undertaking an investment of more than $3 million. Today, however, I am inspired by the opportunity to make a positive contribution to Panama while helping educate the next generation of healthcare professionals.

I am incredibly excited for this journey and cannot wait to arrive in Panama and begin turning this vision into reality.

Have a blessed and wonderful day.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

Fountain of Youth? ❤️
Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 vs. Ipamorelin/Tesamorelin

Few peptides have gained as much popularity in the wellness and anti-aging world as the combinations of Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin/Tesamorelin. After GLP-1 medications, these growth hormone–stimulating peptides have become some of the most sought-after compounds in the United States.

These peptides work by stimulating your body to naturally release more growth hormone, primarily during sleep. Growth hormone affects nearly every tissue in the body, including bones, muscles, skin, connective tissues, nerves, energy production, recovery, repair processes, and even libido. Many users report feeling younger, stronger, and more energetic after several months of use.

For years, Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 has been the more popular combination, not necessarily because it is more effective, but because it is more affordable, requires a lower dose, and remains stable in the vial for a longer period after reconstitution.

Tesamorelin, on the other hand, is an FDA-approved peptide for reducing visceral abdominal fat. This makes it particularly attractive for individuals using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Compared with CJC-1295, Tesamorelin appears to have less impact on insulin sensitivity, may offer greater benefits for fatty liver disease, and has stronger evidence for improving metabolic health and reducing deep abdominal fat.

CJC-1295, however, may be superior for increasing IGF-1 levels, preserving muscle mass, improving recovery, enhancing sleep quality, and supporting overall anti-aging goals.

There are also practical considerations. Tesamorelin tends to lose stability more quickly after reconstitution and may become unusable within a few weeks, whereas CJC-1295 often remains stable for a significantly longer period in the vial. In addition, Tesamorelin generally requires a higher dose, meaning a vial may not last as long.

Cost is another factor. A typical month of Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 therapy may cost approximately US$250, while Ipamorelin/Tesamorelin may cost US$500 or more, depending on dosage and source. Peptide therapy and biologicals are not cheap! I spend $3000 per month on these compounds to optimize my health!

If you are already using a GLP-1 medication, I personally prefer the combination of Ipamorelin and Tesamorelin. Many users notice reductions in abdominal fat relatively quickly and report substantial improvements in energy levels and overall well-being. The effects can feel more noticeable in the short term compared with Ipamorelin/CJC-1295, whose benefits often develop gradually over time.

That said, these are powerful peptides and should not be viewed as risk-free. Increasing growth hormone and IGF-1 levels may carry potential risks, including worsening insulin resistance in some individuals and, theoretically, stimulating the growth of existing cancers. Anyone considering these therapies should undergo appropriate blood testing, cancer screening, and supervision by a health professional.

I have personally used these peptides for years and have been very pleased with the results. For me, maintaining lower visceral fat, improving recovery, preserving muscle mass, and sustaining high energy levels has made a significant difference in quality of life.

While no peptide is truly a "fountain of youth," these compounds may be among the closest tools currently available to help support healthy aging, body composition, and vitality when combined with proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, and medical supervision.

Chiropractors in Florida have been actively lobbying for expanded scope of practice, including the ability to prescribe and dispense certain therapies. At present, many chiropractors work with telehealth physicians who evaluate patients and prescribe medications or peptides when appropriate.

I believe peptide therapy has the potential to offer significant benefits for many individuals when used responsibly and under proper supervision. Because of the growing interest in this field and the increasing amount of scientific research being published, I wanted our students to have a solid understanding of both the benefits and limitations of these therapies.

As a result, I added a course on Peptide Therapy and Biologicals to the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) program offered by National University of Medical Sciences (USA). The course covers the science, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, safety considerations, and current research surrounding peptides and biological therapies.

It is a subject I am passionate about, and I personally teach the course to help prepare future practitioners for the rapidly evolving world of regenerative, functional, and longevity medicine.

Have a blessed day!

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

The Most Powerful Peptide for Beauty? ❤️

One of the most popular, safest, and most researched peptides available today is GHK-Cu, also known as the Copper Peptide. It is one of my personal favorites, and I have used it on and off for years. In Florida, it seems that almost everyone interested in anti-aging and wellness is taking it!

Unlike many peptides that are only available as injections, GHK-Cu can also be found in creams, serums, and other topical products. While topical applications can be helpful for specific areas, I personally prefer subcutaneous injections because they provide whole-body benefits rather than just local effects.

When it comes to physical beauty, there are very few compounds that can match the potential of GHK-Cu. It is best known for its effects on the skin and hair, but research also suggests it may support tissue repair, healthy aging, and even liver and brain health.

Some of the potential benefits of GHK-Cu include:

• Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging
-Supports collagen production
-Supports elastin production
-Improves skin firmness and elasticity
-Helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles
-Enhances hydration
-May reduce the appearance of sun damage (I walk hours under the sun and this peptide protects my skin!)

• Hair growth and scalp health
-Supports hair follicle health
-May improve hair density
-Commonly used for male and female hair thinning

• Wound healing and recovery
-Supports tissue repair
-May accelerate wound healing
-Helps recovery after injuries and surgery (helped me a lot after my bone fracture & surgery)
-May reduce scar formation

• Anti-inflammatory effects
-Helps reduce inflammatory cytokines
-May support those dealing with chronic inflammation, arthritis, and tissue injuries

• Tissue regeneration
-Supports connective tissue healing
-Promotes healthy blood vessel formation
-May activate genes involved in repair and regeneration

Because of these regenerative effects, many peptide users combine GHK-Cu with BPC-157 and TB-500.

Research is also exploring potential benefits for brain and liver health. Early studies suggest GHK-Cu may help reduce oxidative stress, support nerve repair, and assist with tissue regeneration in the liver.

One of the reasons I like GHK-Cu is that it is naturally produced by the body, making it one of the peptides generally considered to have a very favorable safety profile.

In my opinion, GHK-Cu is one of the most promising peptides available for:
• Skin rejuvenation
• Hair growth
• Wound healing
• Recovery from injuries
• General anti-aging support

For those interested in tissue repair and recovery, it is often considered one of the core peptides alongside BPC-157, TB-500, and KPV.

Many peptide companies now combine these peptides into convenient blends. One popular combination is called GLOW, which typically contains GHK-Cu, BPC-157, and TB-500. Another is KLOW, which adds KPV to the mix. The advantage is simple: instead of taking multiple injections, you can often receive the benefits of several peptides in a single subcutaneous injection.

I have been using KLOW for the past two months, and tomorrow marks the end of my current cycle.

In the United States, peptides are generally sold for research purposes. Some wellness and longevity clinics also provide them after a telehealth consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, often a physician or nurse practitioner. In many cases, the peptides are then shipped directly to your home. KLOW costs about US$300 per month. Beauty is not cheap! 😀

I believe peptides are among the most exciting developments in wellness and healthy aging. They have the potential to support recovery, improve quality of life, and help people stay active as they get older. However, they are powerful biological compounds and should not be used casually. Regular blood testing and supervision by a qualified healthcare professional are strongly recommended.

As many of you know, I teach Peptide Therapy and Biologicals at the National University of Medical Sciences (USA), and I continue to be fascinated by the rapidly growing research in this field.

As always, do your research, work with qualified healthcare professionals, and make informed decisions about your health.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

If you are overweight, there is a good chance you may have fatty liver disease and not even know it.

About 10 years ago, I was nearly 80 pounds overweight and was diagnosed with fatty liver disease along with several other health issues. I started exercising regularly and switched to eating one meal a day (OMAD). I lost the weight, and the fatty liver resolved, but my liver enzymes remained elevated for many years.

Back then, most of the peptides available today did not exist. Today, we have additional tools that may help. Research suggests that certain GLP-1 medications can help reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health. Of course, healthy eating and exercise remain the foundation of any successful health program. However, not everyone is able or willing to achieve their goals through lifestyle changes alone, and that is where peptide therapies may provide additional support.

Peptides work differently from supplements. Supplements provide the body with nutrients and building blocks, while peptides act as signaling molecules that tell the body to perform specific functions. For that reason, it is important to ensure your body has the nutrients it needs while using peptides.

In an ideal world, everyone would exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid the metabolic damage that excess body fat can cause. Unfortunately, life is not always that simple. If your healthcare provider feels it is appropriate, peptide therapy may be worth discussing.

Most people are familiar with GLP-1 medications, which have become extremely popular in recent years. In my own case, I also used a cycle of BPC-157 (to repair), Tesamorelin (to lower visceral fat), and KPV (to lower inflammation). My goal was to support tissue repair, reduce visceral fat, and help lower inflammation. Excess body fat is associated with chronic inflammation, so addressing both weight and inflammation made sense to me.

After using this combination, my liver enzymes finally returned to normal after years of remaining elevated. My experience was very positive, although individual results will always vary.

I also noticed that Tesamorelin was particularly effective for reducing abdominal visceral fat. Within a month, I could see visible changes around my waistline.

The entire protocol cost me approximately $500 per month. It is certainly not inexpensive, but investing in your health is often one of the best investments you can make. If you are considering peptide therapy, do so under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional and make sure to monitor your progress with regular blood work.

And for those worried about the injections—subcutaneous peptide injections are generally very small and, in my experience, virtually painless.

As always, this is my personal experience and not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, peptide, supplement, or treatment program.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

Glucosamine, One of the Most Popular Joint Supplements, May Be Linked to Increased Risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Death

Millions of people take glucosamine every year to support joint health and help manage osteoarthritis. However, emerging research suggests there may be reasons for caution.

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Florida found that glucosamine use was associated with a 25% higher risk of receiving an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis among individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The study also reported a 25% higher risk of death within the study period among glucosamine users.

Researchers suggested that glucosamine may contribute to metabolic processes that could be harmful in individuals already at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

One possible explanation involves a process known as "sugar tagging" (glycosylation), where sugar molecules attach to proteins or fats inside cells. This process is essential for normal cellular function. However, because glucosamine is a sugar-like molecule, researchers believe it may cross the blood-brain barrier and potentially interfere with normal metabolic pathways, leading to excessive sugar tagging and unwanted effects in the brain.

While glucosamine continues to be widely used and may benefit some individuals, these findings highlight the importance of discussing all supplements with your healthcare provider, especially if you have concerns about cognitive health or a family history of Alzheimer's disease.

As always, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of glucosamine supplementation.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

One of the least-used peptides may actually be one of the most important!

For some reason, everyone seems to overlook KPV (Lysine-Proline-Valine), a naturally occurring peptide that, in my opinion, deserves far more attention.

KPV is a powerful anti-inflammatory peptide that helps reduce inflammation without significantly suppressing the immune system.

One of its most important actions is lowering inflammatory cytokines. Chronic inflammation is now recognized as a major contributor to many of the world's leading causes of disease and death. Research has shown that elevated inflammatory markers can be a stronger predictor of poor health outcomes & death than many traditional markers, including cholesterol levels.

The concept is simple: reduce chronic inflammation, and you may improve both your health and longevity.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, KPV helps with:
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn's disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Leaky gut syndrome
• General intestinal inflammation

It may also help with skin conditions such as:
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Dermatitis
• Acne-related inflammation

And it has shown promise in inflammatory chronic pain conditions including:
• Arthritis
• Joint inflammation
• Chronic pain syndromes

KPV is rarely used on its own. It is often combined with other peptides such as BPC-157, TB-500, and GHK-Cu to enhance overall healing and recovery. Personally, I believe that something this potent deserves attention as a standalone peptide as well.

Sometimes a dedicated cycle may be all that is needed to help calm chronic inflammation and allow the body to reset.

Remember, chronic inflammation is believed to be a major driving force behind many chronic diseases & deaths. Reducing inflammation may not only improve how you feel today, but may also help you stay healthier for years to come.

I teach a course on Peptide Therapy & Biologicals as part of the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) program offered by the National University of Medical Sciences (USA).

Lower chronic inflammation, live longer, and take more time to stop and smell the roses. 🌹

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

Our Medical School in Panama ❤️

We recently secured a $3 million line of credit to help launch a medical school through National University of Medical Sciences. Last week, I transferred $900,000 to Panama as part of this exciting project.

Many people have asked why I chose Panama when there are countries where establishing a medical school would be faster, easier, and less expensive, such as Georgia, Malta, Cyprus, or Dominica. The answer is simple: I love Panama and want to give back to a country that has given me so much since I became a permanent resident in 2018.

I knew from the beginning that Panama would not be the easiest path. Registering an English-language medical school there is a complex undertaking. The official language is Spanish, the regulatory process is extensive, and approvals involve multiple government bodies. Unlike many countries that have a single authority overseeing higher education, Panama requires approvals from more than one organization, making the process longer and more challenging. It can take two years or more and requires significant investment in legal, consulting, and application costs.

I was fully aware that I could establish a medical school much faster elsewhere. However, this project is not only about business. It is about gratitude.

Panama, like many countries, is facing economic challenges and unemployment. My goal is to create opportunities. Next week I will travel to Panama for meetings with municipal leaders and government officials to seek their support for a project focused on job creation, education, and healthcare.

In addition to creating employment opportunities, I plan to offer several full scholarships to Panamanian students through Pourgol Family Memorial Scholarship (in memory of my father, Ali Pourgol) so they can study free of charge. We also intend to establish a teaching clinic where Panamanians can receive free healthcare services with a focus on chronic pain. Creating jobs, providing education, and offering free healthcare is my way of saying thank you to my beloved Panama.

I have not forgotten my NAO & NUMSS students either. Through Medical Financial, a company I founded 30 years ago, I hope to develop a loan program that will help qualified students from National Academy of Osteopathy and National University of Medical Sciences pursue medical education without the burden of paying tuition while being unable to work.

Sometimes the best business decision is not the one that brings the greatest profit. If that were my only goal, Panama would probably not be my first choice. But life is not just about business. It is also about happiness, purpose, and giving back.

I often encourage my students to work hard, build successful careers, and achieve financial prosperity. But I also remind them to travel, explore the world, and choose places that bring them happiness—even if doing so means earning a little less.

I would appreciate your good wishes and prayers. To be honest, I am both excited and nervous. There are nights when I cannot sleep because of the risks involved and the possibility that years of effort and investment may not lead to the outcome I hope for. But great dreams always require courage.

I will be in Panama for the next month or so, but I will return in time for the two-week practical classes at National Academy of Osteopathy and for our graduation ceremonies.

Have a blessed Sunday everyone.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day

We are planning our new medical school in the Caribbean and would love your input! Which name do you prefer?

1️⃣ National University of Medical Sciences School of Medicine
2️⃣ National University of Medical Sciences College of Medicine
3️⃣ National University of Medical Sciences Faculty of Medicine

Please comment with 1, 2, or 3 and let us know why you chose it.
Your opinion matters and will help shape the future of our medical school!

"school" is commonly used in the US. "College" is used in US and is common in the Caribbean. "Faculty" is used in Canada, Europe, Africa and many of the commonwealth countries.

Thanks!

Free medical education through Medical Financial?

I started Medical Financial in Canada about 30 years ago, and today it is based in Panama. In the beginning, its purpose was simple—providing interest-free loans to people who needed treatment but could not afford it. Over time, it expanded to support students at the National Academy of Osteopathy, and later evolved into a venture capital arm that helped fund several of my projects.

Now, I’m planning to bring Medical Financial back to its roots—helping people move forward in life. We intend to offer interest-free loans to students who enroll in the MD program we are developing in the Caribbean. As you can imagine, the number of loans will be limited, with priority given to my students at National Academy of Osteopathy and National University of Medical Sciences.

Next month, I will be traveling to the Caribbean to meet with mayors and government officials. This initiative has the potential to create meaningful local employment while also supporting the regional economy by attracting students from around the world.

I have never believed in starting a business just for the sake of it. For me, it has always been about identifying real problems and offering practical solutions. Medical Financial is one of those solutions—helping those who dream of becoming physicians but face financial barriers.

In my experience, when you focus on solving real problems for people, success tends to follow naturally.

Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day