After clients get their RMR measured with a BodyGem or MedGem indirect calorimeter, they receive a Daily Calorie Budget, which is based on their RMR, their activity levels and their weight loss goals.

Then to have success, they need to hit their Daily Calorie Budget on a consistent basis, to create an imbalance between Calories In and Calories Out, to lose weight effectively.

Balance Log was a software program that helped clients track their caloric intake, water intake and exercise.

BalanceLog was limited in that it was only for PC’s and not Apple computers.  And when Windows Vista was released and cause incompatibility issues, the best path was to create a new tracking system that would function online.

That new system has just been released and it’s called MiHealthLog.

It has an even larger database of foods and more features to make tracking caloric intake and exercise even easier, and since it’s online, there’s no compatibility issues.

Click here to find out more about MiHealthLog

The BodyGem and MedGem are both indirect calorimeters, that determine RMR – Resting Metabolic Rate, to help clients optimize their weight loss results.

Instead of estimating RMR, the BodyGem and MedGem scientifically measure a clients Metabolic Fingerprint, that is unique to them.

The BodyGem is designed for Personal Trainers, fitness facilities and Dietitians who don’t make insurance claims for their services.

The BodyGem displays RMR readings and works with the BodyGem Analyzer companion software.

The BodyGem System is a lower priced option, because it has no associated FDA-approval costs, so it helps you increase your profitability.

I specialize in helping Personal Trainers, fitness facilities and Dietitians, get a BodyGem to help optimize client weight management results and to increase profits.

The MedGem can only be sold to licensed clinicians because it is a  FDA-approval medical device.

The MedGem displays RMR and Resting Vo2 readings (for patient diagnosis, not to confused with Max VO2 testing)

Bariatric Doctors, Dietitians and other licensed clinicians may be able to make insurance claims using designated CPT codes.

Contact me for more details on the MedGem.

BodyGem Nutrition 101 Basics

Food is the fuel our body uses to enable us to carry out our daily activities. In simple terms, food is energy. There are over 45 nutrients that our body needs every day.

Some nutrients have energy (calories) and others do not, but both are important to our body. A basic understanding of nutrition can help you achieve your personal health, weight and lifestyle goals.

The objective of a proper diet is to meet the body’s energy and nutrient requirements, while achieving and maintaining a desirable body composition.

These daily requirements for calories and nutrients depend on a person’s age, sex, weight, health status, Metabolic Fingerprint and physical activity.

Macronutrients:

Nutrients that have calories are called macronutrients. These include:

Carbohydrate – Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy and include starches, sugars and fiber.

Fiber – Dietary fiber should be consumed daily to improve movement in the gastrointestinal tract, keep blood sugar levels moderate after eating and to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Fiber is found only in plant foods.

Protein – Proteins are made of amino acids. Proteins are necessary for growth, maintenance and tissue repair. Good sources of protein include meats, legumes and dairy products.

Fat – Fats supply energy, essential fatty acids, and are needed to help absorb vitamins such as A, D, E and K.

Saturated Fats: Tend to raise cholesterol. Found in high fat dairy products, higher fat meats, skin and fat of poultry, lard, palm and coconut oil.

Unsaturated Fats: Replacing foods high in saturated fats with foods high in unsaturated fats can help reduce cholesterol. There are two types of unsaturated fats: monounsaturated fats are found in canola oil, olive oil, peanuts and avocados; polyunsaturated fats are found in all other vegetable oils, nuts and high fat fish.

Trans Fatty Acids: Tend to raise blood cholesterol. The best way to identify these is to look for “partially hydrogenated” oils in the ingredient list of the nutrition facts label. Found in many commercial baked products (crackers, cookies), commercially fried foods (chips), and some margarines.

Cholesterol: Foods high in cholesterol tend to raise blood cholesterol; however, saturated fat may play a more important role in raising blood cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol comes from animal sources such as egg yolks, meat, poultry, fish, and high fat dairy products. It is important to monitor your cholesterol since it is directly associated with heart disease.

Micronutrients & Water:

Foods that do not contain calories include micronutrients and water. These include:

Vitamins – Do not provide energy because they do not contain calories, but they do help the body convert the food you eat into energy. This in turn is necessary for metabolism. Vitamins are abundant in vegetables and fruit. They can also be found in legumes, dairy products, eggs and meat.

Minerals – Play an important role in metabolism and are involved in the make up of the body’s structure.  They do not provide energy directly but are necessary for the body to function properly.

Calcium, iron and zinc are examples of minerals.

Water – Dissolves substances, lubricates our joints, and provides a way to transport nutrients and waste.

Microlife, Metabolic Fingerprint, MedGem and BodyGem are trademarks of Microlife, Inc.

To get more information:

• Review the BodyGem System information
• Call me directly at 303-808-2291
• Or leave a voicemail at 1-866-285-8296 and I’ll call you back

I wish you the best of health!

David Wilcoxson

BodyGem® Frequently Asked Questions

When should an RMR measurement be taken?

To obtain an accurate resting metabolic rate (RMR), the measurement should be done at least 4 hours after eating or exercise.

How often should I measure my metabolism?

If you are losing weight or participating in a fitness program that includes strength training, we suggest measuring your metabolism approximately every four weeks.

Monitoring your RMR will allow you to adjust your daily calorie targets if your metabolism changes. Repeat measurements should be performed at the same time of day under similar conditions.

Can I reuse the mouthpiece?

The mouthpiece are single-use items. They contain filter material to prevent cross contamination and should be disposed of after each measurement. Always use a new breathing attachment when performing a measurement.

How do I order new mouthpieces/nose clips?

You can order new mouthpieces and nose clips online by clicking on BodyGem Mouthpiece or through Microlife Area Representative David Wilcoxson at 303-808-2291

What does the reading on the BodyGem unit mean?

The number that appears on the LCD display of the Body Gem indirect calorimeter is your resting metabolic rate (RMR). RMR is the number of calories your body burns each day at rest and with little activity.  It can also be referred to as basal metabolic rate (BMR)

For many people, RMR can represent up to 75 percent of total metabolism. Lifestyle, activity and exercise make up the rest of total daily calories expended.

Your RMR measurement helps determine how many calories you should eat to maintain your weight management and fitness goals.

How accurate is the BodyGem measurement?

The BodyGem unit has been validated against the Douglas Bag method, the gold standard in metabolic Measurements and compared to other metabolic carts.

The BodyGem unit is as accurate and reliable as any indirect calorimeter system on the market. In several studies the BodyGem has repeatedly demonstrated an accuracy of 1-3% when compared to other standard reference systems.

The BodyGem’s portability makes measuring metabolism possible for most individuals and professionals.

What is metabolism/RMR and how does it relate to me?

Metabolism is the body’s process of combining nutrients with oxygen to release the energy needed for the body to function.

Metabolism is measured in calories and provides the total number of calories a person burns each day with little or no activity. Additional calorie needs come from lifestyle factors (how active you are in your daily life) and purposeful exercise.

Metabolism is different for each person and can change over time. Your metabolism is determined by your body composition (amount of muscle and fat), body weight, age, and gender.

The best way to learn your RMR is to measure it using the BodyGem device. Monitoring your metabolism over time will help you balance the calories you burn with the calories you eat. Weight loss or a change in body composition can lower your RMR.

I have lost weight. Why is my metabolism lower?

Metabolism is influenced by total body mass (your body weight). When you lose weight, your total body mass is lower and it takes less energy for your body to maintain vital functions.

By performing strength training exercise while you decrease calories, you may be able to maintain a higher metabolism. Keep in mind that a decrease in metabolism during weight loss is normal.

I exercise a lot and my metabolism has not increased. Why?

Aerobic exercise burns calories during the activity, but doesn’t have a significant effect on increasing your metabolism during the rest of the day.

Your metabolism temporarily increases after aerobic exercise while the body cools down, but this calorie burn is relatively low unless the exercise intensity and duration have been high. The calories you burned during aerobic exercise will help you balance the calories you eat.

Strength training burns fewer calories during the exercise, but can increase muscle, which will lead to an increase in metabolism.

Muscle is more metabolically active than fat and burns more calories to maintain at rest. Body fat burns very few calories.

You will have to do strength training several times a week to increase lean body mass and see the results in your metabolism. Try a combination of aerobic exercise and strength training to get the benefits of both!

I sometimes feel sleepy when I do my RMR measurement. Is it okay to sleep?

Metabolism is lower when you are asleep than when you are awake at rest. If you drift off to sleep during a BodyGem measurement, your measurement will be low and not truly representative of the number of calories you burn in a day at rest.

During a BodyGem measurement, relax and breathe normally, but do not fall asleep.

I did two BodyGem measurements and I got different results. What should I do?

Make sure you did both measurements under similar conditions and at the same time of day. Relax and breathe normally during the measurement.

Measuring your RMR is similar to measuring your blood pressure. Because your body is constantly changing, RMR may vary slightly from measurement to measurement.

Will smoking affect the RMR measurement?

Nicotine is a stimulant and will increase RMR. Refrain from smoking one hour before a measurement.

Any stimulant, including caffeine, some over-the-counter drugs and some nutritional supplements will temporarily elevate your metabolism.

Do I need to buy any software to use the BodyGem device?

No. All you need is the actual BodyGem unit, power supply, and the single-use mask or single-use mouthpiece and nose clip.

BodyGem Analyzer software comes with each BodyGem purchase to allow for developing accurate weight management plans for your clients..

I got an error message when trying to start the measurement/warm up the device.

To begin a BodyGem measurement, make sure the unit is plugged in and push the amber button on the top of the BodyGem device.

It is very important to leave the BodyGem device sitting upright on a flat surface, away from any forced air vents or fans, when you push the button and throughout the self-calibration period (while the amber light is flashing).

Do not pick up the BodyGem device until the unit beeps and the light begins flashing green.

I keep getting an air leak error when I take a measurement. How do I prevent this?

Make sure your mouthpiece is firmly attached to the BodyGem unit. The breathing attachment should fit snugly into the unit and be flush with the unit. The nose clip should completely close your nostrils and you should be breathing only through your mouth.

Relax and breathe normally.

When do I know the BodyGem device is calibrated?

To begin a measurement, press the amber button on top of the BodyGem device. The unit will calibrate, beep and the lighted button will begin flashing green.

You are now ready to begin the measurement. The measurement needs to begin within one minute after calibration is complete.

If the measurement is not started within this time, the lighted button will turn amber and you will have to push the button again.

How do I know the BodyGem device calibrated correctly?

The BodyGem device is designed to self-calibrate. If calibration is not completed, error message Er05 will appear in the LCD and the lighted button on top of the BodyGem device will turn red.

This message indicates the BodyGem device has detected a flow of air during the calibration and was unable to complete the calibration process.

If you continue to experience Er05 messages, contact Microlife at 1-800-968-1378.

What do I do if the BodyGem device does not calibrate correctly?

Remove the power cord from the side of the BodyGem unit and reinsert it.

Repeat the steps in the BodyGem User Manual, making sure there are no air vents nearby. If the BodyGem device continues to display an error message, try moving to another location to perform the measurement.

If for some reason you receive an Error 23 measurement, be sure the flowtube is completely flush with the BodyGem casing.

If you continue to receive an Error 23 contact Microlife at 1-800-968-1378

What if I cough or lose the seal around the mask or mouthpiece?

The lighted button on top of the BodyGem device will turn red, indicating you have an error. The error message Er04 will appear in the LCD, indicating the BodyGem device has detected an interruption during the measurement.

Remove the power cord from the side of the BodyGem unit, reinsert it, and then follow the steps to begin a new measurement.

How do I clean the BodyGem device?

If necessary, wipe outside surfaces of the BodyGem device with a soft, clean, dry cloth and soap and water.

Take care to avoid the round metallic sensors on the internal surfaces of the BodyGem device. Do not submerge the BodyGem device in water or allow water or any solution to penetrate the display windows, sockets, metallic sensors or openings on the product.

Do not attempt to clean and re-use the mouthpiece as these are single-use only items.

Can children use the BodyGem device?

If the mouthpiece fits comfortably on the child, it is possible to measure a child’s RMR. However, a physician or Registered Dietician should be consulted when making dietary recommendations for children.

For more information, click on BodyGem

During the month of December, we are giving away the new BodyGem Analyzer 4.0 or MedGem Analyzer 4.0 AND two 21-packs of mouthpieces, when you purchase four 21-packs of mouthpieces.

21-Packs of BodyGem mouthpieces and MedGem mouthpieces are normally $299 each.

BodyGem Analyzer 4.0 is normally $399.
MedGem Analyzer 4.0 is normally $499.

This adds up to a savings of $997 – $1,097

Call me to place your order today, to stock up for the upcoming January weight-loss rush.

David Wilcoxson
Microlife Area Representative
303-808-2291

BodyGem Technology Can Help You in the Battle of the Bulge

Ever wonder why your friend who is the same gender, age, height, and bone structure as you can “eat like a horse” and never gain a pound, and you gain 50 pounds just walking past the bakery?  It’s because people burn calories at different rates.

Metabolism, the rate at which we burn calories, plays a major role in weight loss and gain, and one of the keys to determining a specific weight-management strategy is knowing your own unique metabolism.

To put it simply, weight loss and gain is simple mathematics – If you take in more calories than you burn, you will gain weight, and if you burn more than you take in, you will lose weight.

Up to 60% of the U.S. population suffers from obesity, and it is one of the most frustrating and difficult conditions to conquer, leading to many life-threatening conditions like heart disease and others.

But now, technology has joined the weight loss battle with two new and exciting tools to help you know your personal metabolism and change your eating habits.

The BodyGem By Microlife

Whoever said “knowing is half the battle” was very correct.

We cannot decide how to approach our weight loss program without knowing how many calories our body burns each day at rest.

This rate, the metabolic rate, or RMR, often consists of up to 80% of the calories we burn daily! Because metabolism is unique to each person depending on age, activity level, diet, genetics, and current weight, it is important to determine your own metabolic characteristics in order to create a personalized program.

The Body Gem is operated by a simple breathing test. After this simple test, you will know exactly how your body uses the calories you put into it and you can then work with your competent health practitioner to devise a nutritional, exercise, and supplement program that will help you meet your individual weight loss goals.

BodyGem units are located around the U.S. at health clubs and nutrition centers, and a nominal fee ranging from $35 to $100 per reading is available at these places.

To get more information:

• Review the BodyGem System information
• Call me directly at 303-808-2291
• Or leave a voicemail at 1-866-285-8296 and I’ll call you back

I wish you the best of health!

David Wilcoxson
Microlife Area Representative

BodyGem by HealtheTech and BalanceLog by HealtheTech, were trademarks when HealtheTech, Inc. manufactured the BodyGem.  Now Microlife manufacturers and supports the BodyGem indirect calorimeter.

This article will compare the Microlife BodyGem with the Korr MetaCheck.

Both indirect calorimetry units measure RMR – Resting Metabolic Rate / BMR – Basal Metabolic Rate

Let’s start with validation.  Both indirect calorimeter devices have been validated against the gold standards of the metabolic rate testing, the Douglas Bag and the DeltraTrac Medical Cart, and have similar accuracy.

Filtration

The Korr Filter is in the device, so it doesn’t get changed with each client. The filter is replaced every 100 usages.

The Body Gem filters are in the disposable mouthpieces, so that each client breathes through a NEW filter.

Portability

The Korr MetaCheck is a box-type design and it sits on a desktop.

The BodyGem is a compact, hand-held design, and it comes with a carry bag to allow you to perform RMR measurements anywhere.

Body Fat Percentage

The Korr MetaCheck does not determine the clients body fat percentage.

The new BodyGem Analyzer 4.0 software determines the clients body fat percentage, which lets you track changes in your clients body composition.

Report Printing

The Korr Metacheck is designed to be used with their printer and paper.  Their preprinted paper is $20 per 100 sheets.  With 2 sheets per test, that’s an extra $.40 per test.

BodyGem Analyzer can be loaded on various computers and printed from any printer.  No special paper is needed.

Client Diet Tracking

Korr doesn’t offer a tracking program to empower clients to monitor their Daily Calorie Intake, to hit their weight-loss goals.

Microlife clients will be able to track their Daily Calorie Intake and other macro and micronutrients, with the soon to be released online MiHealthLog program.

Device Sensors

The Korr MetaCheck has a 1 year warranty and the sensors must be replaced every year at a cost of $225.

The BodyGem has 2 year warranty.

Mouthpiece Pricing

Korr mouthpiece tubes are $7 each.  The bacteria  filters are $6.25 each.

BodyGem mouthpieces with integrated filters are $9.50 each.

Device Pricing

The BodyGem System Kit is $700 less than the Korr MetaCheck System

To get more information:

• Review the BodyGem System information
• Call me directly at 303-808-2291
• Or leave a voicemail at 1-866-285-8296 and I’ll call you back

I wish you the best of health!

David Wilcoxson

Korr and MetaCheck are registered trademarks of Korr Medical Technologies, Inc.

A BodyGem RMR* measurement will tell you how many calories you burn at rest, which can be 65-75% of your total daily calories.

It’s all about the calories: managing your weight is dependent on being in control of the amount of food (calories) you eat each day. But how do you accurately determine how much food (calories) that is?

Stop guessing and personalize your plan with the missing link – An accurate measurement of your Metabolic Fingerprint, which can be measured with a BodyGem device.

Metabolic Rate
Your Metabolic Rate is the number of calories your body burns each day with little or no activity, and accounts for the majority of total calories your body burns.

An accurate BodyGem test will put you in control of your weight, and you will know the precise number of calories you can eat each day to successfully reach your goal.

Is my Metabolic Rate GOOD or BAD?
Unlike other health assessments (blood pressure or cholesterol for example), there is no such thing as a good or bad, high or low metabolism. It is, however, unique to you.

Two similar individuals can follow the same diet and exercise routine and have dramatically different results. This is why it is important to have your Metabolic Fingerprint measured.

Your Resting Metabolic Rate – RMR accounts for the majority of calories your body burns each day. An accurate measurement gives you the missing link that will put you in control of managing your weight.

How can I change my Metabolism?
Two of the largest determinants of your Metabolic Fingerprint are your weight and body composition (muscle weight vs. fat weight).

As your weight decreases, it is likely that your metabolism will decrease too. This is a normal response to the body’s loss of weight and reduced calorie needs to support it.

On the other hand, body composition, or the amount of lean muscle mass you have, impacts metabolism too.

It is possible to increase your metabolism by building lean muscle mass, which requires more calories for your body to support. Keep in mind, building lean muscle mass requires intense strength training.

Cardiovascular exercise burns calories during the exercise session, but will not influence changes in metabolism. Both types of exercise are keys to successfully managing your weight.

Which diet plan should I follow?
The type of diet plan you choose should be based on your preferences, needs, and advice of your physician or nutrition counselor.

Once you select the plan that’s right for you, it’s simply a matter of managing your daily calorie intake to your unique calorie budget.

Can I increase the number of daily calories I can eat by exercising?
Physical activity is an important factor in reaching weight goals, maintaining weight and is beneficial to overall health and fitness.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.

Whether you take an extra walk around the block, or do an intense workout at the gym, each activity burns additional calories. You can decide whether to take in additional calories to compensate for those burned or whether to let the extra burned calories contribute toward faster weight loss.

Should I have my Metabolic Fingerprint measured again?
Talk with your health or fitness professional about your personalized plan, and determine the date for a re-measurement appointment.

Since your metabolism will change as you lose weight or increase lean muscle mass, it’s important to re-measure to avoid those frustrating plateaus.

As your body sheds pounds, it needs fewer calories to support itself, so schedule your subsequent measurements to stay on track.

After you reach your weight goal, you should obtain a final Body Gem measurement so you know how many calories you should eat to maintain your new weight.

Remember, the keys to successful weight management is to personalize your daily plan, and then stick to it. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to reaching your goal.

For more information on the BodyGem indirect calorimeter, click on BodyGem

RMR stands for Resting Metabolic Rate, and it is also referred to as metabolism rate, base metabolic rate, basal metabolic rate or BMR.

The BodyGem is now manufactured and supported by Microlife Home Medical Solutions.
The BodyGem by HealtheTech was originally development by HealtheTech Inc.

HealtheTech Inc who developed the BodyGem by HealtheTech, MedGem by HealtheTech, and BalanceLog by HealtheTech brands, was purchased by Microlife Home Medical Solutions in 2006.

You can read the HealtheTech Press Release.

Microlife Home Medical Solutions now manufacturers and supports the BodyGem, MedGem, along with BodyGem Analyzer software and MedGem Analyzer software.

To get more information:

• Call me directly at 303-808-2291
• Or leave a voicemail at 1-866-285-8296 and I’ll call you back

I wish you the best of health!

David Wilcoxson

Your Basal Metabolic Rate or BMR is the number of calories your body burns each day with no activity.

Your total daily metabolism includes your BMR, and the additional calories burned by your lifestyle, such as work activity levels, exercising, digestion, and home activity levels.

Understanding your unique metabolism and how to keep it revved-up can help you reach your fitness and weight-management goals more effectively.

Most of us know that your metabolic rate decreases at a rate of about two to three percent per decade after the age of thirty.

The reason for this decline has more to do with losing muscle mass than it does with aging, so developing strategies to maintain your muscle mass can help keep your metabolism in high gear.

Experts say that strength training of any type can increase the number of calories your body burns by as much as 7 percent a day.*

One pound of lean muscle burns 2 to 4 times more calories than fat which can have a significant impact on trimming down and becoming more fit.

Muscle occupies about 30% less space than fat, so even if you’re not losing weight, you may see a dramatic difference in the way you look and feel.

Impr0ving your lean body mass to fat mass ratio is an important component of enhancing your overall fitness.

Improving your body composition means burning calories through exercise – both cardiovascular and strength training.

You also burn calories through daily activities such as working and doing household chores.

Did you know your body also burns a significant number of calories each day just to stay alive?

The calories you burn to maintain normal body functions such as breathing, keeping your heart pumping and your brain working is is know as your Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR), also known as Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR).

Your RMR accounts for the vast majority of calories you burn each day, up to 75%.

Other Factors That Can Increase Metabolism

• Certain hormones can increase or decrease metabolism.
• Certain supplements can increase or decrease metabolism.
• Caffeine Increases RMR.
• Pharmaceuticals – Prescription and OTC drugs can increase or decrease RMR.

Cardiovascular training has acute increased calorie burning effects but does not significantly contribute to a chronic increase in RMR.

In other words, your metabolism increases during cardiovascular exercise, but returns to normal short after you’re done.

Whereas weight training increases your muscle mass, so even when you’re not exercising, you’re metabolism is elevated.

Factors That Can Decrease Metabolism

Weight loss causes a decrease in RMR, which is why it is important to continually monitor RMR during weight loss.

As you lose bodyfat, your metabolism will decrease, which is fine if you adjust your calorie intake to match the decrease in calorie need.

Caloric restriction – Eating too few calories will cause a decrease in RMR.  And this is a very important point.

Your bodies mission is to preserve your life, not lose body fat. So if you restrict your calorie intake too much, it will take measures to reduce your metabolic rate, so that you don’t burn as many calories.

Your body will seek to preserve it’s ‘long-term energy‘, which is fat, and it will get it’s calories by robbing your muscles of protein.

Think about what happens when people go on a calorie-restricted diet, they condition their body to operate on fewer calories.  Then when they stop their diet and eat what used to be their ‘normal‘ calorie intake, they actually gain weight.

Repeat this process over and over through yo-yo dieting, and you can continually  reduce your metabolic rate, which makes it even more difficult to lose weight in the future.

So the key to successful weight management is to feed your body enough ‘quality’ calories to provide for it’s metabolic requirements, while creating an imbalance between ‘calories in‘ vs. ‘calories out‘.

When you hit this ’sweet spot’, your body will determine that it’s needs are being met, so that it is more likely to let go of excessive body fat.

The best way to know how many calories to eat each day is to get your RMR – Resting Metabolic Rate measured with a Body Gem indirect calorimetry device.

For more information, click on BodyGem.

* Souce: ‘Resting Energy Expenditure, Body Composition, and Excess Weight in the Obese.’ Gary D. Foster, et al., Metabolism, Vol.3, No. 5 (May), 1988. pgs. 467-472.