Saturday, January 25, 2020

The Role Of Macronutrients

The Role Of Macronutrients In developed countries such as the UK, diets and lifestyles have changed dramatically since the end of the Second World War. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the principal cause of death among adult men and women accounting for approximately ninety four thousand deaths (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). The increase in the incidence of CVD is supported by evidence which suggests that the leading factors contributing to this condition are obesity, high blood pressure, psychological stress, poor cardiovascular system health, an unsuitable diet and tobacco and drug use (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; BBC heath website; De Lorgeril et al, 1999). 33% of all deaths are believed to be caused by CVD with developing countries hit the hardest (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003) It is possible too that the developing world which includes countries like China, India, some middle east countries, A frica and South America will suffer large effect sizes in the incidence of CVD in the future. Macronutrients that increase the risk of CVD Various fatty acids including LDL cholesterol (low density lipoprotein) sometimes called saturated fatty acids, have been highlighted by many types of study as increasing the incidence of CVD among samples of the populations tested (De Lorgeril et al 1999; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; BBC heath website, 2011). High blood cholesterol levels and CVD are strongly and positively correlated (BBC health website, 2011). Amongst these, myristic acid and palmitric acid have been found to increase the risk of CVD and are abundant in foods such as diary and meat products. Myristic acid is a common saturated fatty acid and can be found is foods such as coconut milk and butter oil as well as in animal fats. Palmitric acid is another saturated fatty acid and is commonly found in plant and animal fats as well as butter, cheese, milk and some meats. Trans-fatty acids are another risk factor for CVD and are found in the form of a monounsaturate and a polyunsatura te and have been found to increase LDL cholesterol (BBC health website, 2011). Folate (vitamin B9) and homocysteine (a  homologue the amino acid cysteine) have both been found to be risk factors for CVD (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). However, both folic acid and homocysteine may be a consequence and not a cause of conditions such as arthrosclerosis (De Lorgeril et al, 1999; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). High sodium content in the diet has been strongly correlated with CVD (De Lorgeril et al 1999; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; BBC heath website, 2011). High blood pressure associated with excessive ingestion of sodium salts has been shown in many studies to be a predictor of myocardial infarction and subsequently increases the probability of both types of stroke with the greatest risk being among the male obese populations (BBC heath website; De Lorgeril et al 1999; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). Macronutrients that decrease the risk of CVD Foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, fish oils have been found to be effective in reducing the risk of CVD (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; De Lorgeril et al 1999; BBC heath website). Polyunsaturated vegetable oils such as linoleic acid have been found to be promoters of low risk for CVD (De Lorgeril et al 1999; BBC heath website). Some fibres consist of polysaccharides and lignin which is a constituent of plant cells walls and aids water transport and structure. These types of fibre along with more traditional celluloses have been found to reduce the incidence of LDLs as part of a regular diet (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). Wholegrains are another type of fibre that has in clinical trials been found to reduce the risk of CVD, this type of fibre is abundant in the cereal crops. Antioxidants are found in fresh fruit and vegetable and have been suggested to reduce the risk of CVD (Diet, nutrition and the preven tion of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; De Lorgeril et al 1999; BBC heath website) however the evidence for this is not strong and the decreased risk of CVD may be due to other nutrients present in the food. For example, vitamin C, E and beta-carotene have all been studied for their potential positive effects on individuals at risk from myocardial infarction and stroke. The results of this research are as yet however inconclusive (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). Flavonoids are also present in many plants and display anti-allergic, anti-cancer, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). A negative correlation has been found between some flavonoids and incidence of CVD although methodological problems have been mentioned in such studies (Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). Potassium salts have been found in a number of cohort studies to be a protec tive factor in CVD an may measurably decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure (De Lorgeril et al 1999; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003). Some of these studies found an inverse relationship between risk of a stroke and potassium salt ingestion as part of a regularly monitored diet. The essential fatty acids such as omega-3 have been found to be conducive to the reduction in the risk of CVD for a number of reasons including reducing triglycerides (a VLDL) which is associated with high incidence of atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke (De Lorgeril, 1999). Omega 3 is an unsaturated fatty acid found in oily fish such as tuna and herring, other beneficial cardiovascular effects may be reduced blood clotting (helping to reduce aneurisms and other blockages) and possibly promoting heart beat regulation (BBC health website, 2011). Stanols and sterols are plant derived esters which have been found to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood supply of sample populations (BBC website, 2011). These types of esters can be found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes, and vegetable oils and may help to reduce previously high levels of cholesterol. Moderate levels of alcohol have been found in some studies to reduce the risk of CVD (BBC website, 2011). This beneficial effect however is based upon the consumption of the no more than the recommended daily limit for a person of a given weight, height and age (BBC website, 2011). Alcohol ingestion has been correlated with increases in the beneficial HDL cholesterol. Pathophysiological processes that occur in relation to macronutrients and CVD The major pathophysiological change that may occur in the human body in relation to macronutrients or lack of is cardiovascular disease which may also be associated with obesity and diabetes (Poirier et al, 2006). Atherosclerosis is a disease of the arterial system in which the arterial vessels become blocked due to a build up of the LDL fats (atheromas or atherosclerotic plaques) which accumulate inside the epithelium of the vessel walls thus reducing the blood flow and increasing the risk of infarction (Merck medical library, 2008). All the factors already mentioned above have been strongly linked to atherosclerosis (tobacco smoke, long term saturated fat ingestion, diabetes, lack of exercise, stress and excessive levels of cholesterol in the blood supply). The vital organs are particularly vulnerable (heart, kidneys brain) as well as some not so vital areas like the arteries of the legs. (Merck medical library, 2008; Poirier et al, 2006). Subtle repeated injury to the arterial sys tem appears to be the main developmental factor leading to atherosclerosis, the artery gradually becomes thicker and loses its elastic ability, this leads to a situation where the blood is restricted and the heart is placed under greater and greater pressure due to the resistance in the increasingly furred arteries (Merck medical library, 2008; Poirier et al, 2006). This effect can be compounded by obesity and diabetes which interfere with circulation and metabolism and may even lead to infection (Merck medical library, 2008; Poirier et al, 2006). Atherosclerosis can be recognised histologically when arterial walls creates endocrine signals that cause monocytes and T cells to accumulate within the affected artery. Monocytes and T cells move into the wall of the artery where they are signalled to turn into another type of cell, foam cells. Foam cells accumulate cholesterol and trigger growth of smooth muscle cells in the artery wall. These foam cells form patchy deposits and are cove red with a fibrous cap. Over time calcium accumulates in these plaques. Plaques normally form where the arteries branch and over time cause such a stress upon the cardiovascular system that it may suddenly fail (usually bought on by a combination of high blood pressure, bad diet and obesity) or a major blockage may form causing a stroke (Merck medical library, 2008; Poirier et al, 2006; Diet, nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases, WHO, 2003; De Lorgeril et al 1999; BBC heath website).

Friday, January 17, 2020

Snap Fitness

Snap Fitness ACC/566 July 16, 2012 David Kochevar Snap Fitness Executive Summary Owning a business is a dream for many people and one way to obtain that dream is to take advantage of a franchise opportunity. Work-out centers are a rapidly growing business. â€Å"Economically, the health club industry has proven to be recession-proof, averaging an 8% annual growth rate since the early 1990’s across all health clubs and gyms†(Snap Fitness, 2012). The following paper will reflect information concerning owning a fitness center and benefits to an individual who seeks to own a business in this industry.Individuals across the country who want to be fit often join fitness centers and most people want a no commitment month to month membership. Snap Fitness offers memberships such as this at a reasonable cost. The purpose of this paper is to describe Snap Fitness and identify cost-volume-profit analysis as well as break even analysis. Snap Fitness estimates each location will hav e $4,000 expense for fixed operating expenses and $2000 to lease equipment. In order for an individual looking to own a franchise such as Snap Fitness, in order to make a profit the business may only need 300 members.The paper will provide an estimate of variable costs, monthly sales in dollars and members will be identified to determine what is needed to achieve a target net income of $10,000 for the month. Five examples of variable costs for a fitness center will be identified and discussed. Lastly, the paper will discuss summarized information concerning purchasing a franchise and will conclude with a decision whether purchasing a fitness franchise is a wise decision or not. CVP AnalysisCVP (Cost Value Profit) Analysis allows an investor to determine if an investment is profitable and at what point the total revenues are equal to the total costs (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kieso, 2009). CVP are very basic analysis that provide a very quick and easy to ready snap shot analysis. CVP Analy sis for Snap Fitness contemplates the connection between the volume of members of the fitness center, the monthly fee (no annual contract is needed), the variable costs encored, and the fixed costs. Snap Fitness will assess no sales mix as sales cannot be mixed when only one service is offered (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kieso, 2009). Snap Fitness | |CVP Income Statement | |For the Month Ended June 30, 2012 | | |Total | |Sales (300 members X $26. 0 monthly fee) |$7,800 | |Variable costs |$1,800 | |Contribution margin |$6,000 | |Fixed costs (monthly operating expenses + equipment lease |$6,000 | |Net Income | $-0- |Variable costs Variable costs are the operating cost that varies in direct proportion to the quantity of units either sold are produced (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kieso, 2009). For the variable cost analysis it was assumed that the only fixed costs are the estimated monthly operating expenses of $4,000 and the equipment lease of $2,000 per month. In order to Break-even the Net income r esult for the below equation would be zero if the expenses and sales are equal. The newspaper assessed that the break even would be meet if 300 members paid a monthly fee of $26. 0 each. The newspaper theory was used to complete the sales data, but this data point should be considered a soft number as it is based off of a newspaper assumption. Break-even analysis uses the formula of Sales = Variable costs + Fixed costs + Net income (Kimmel, Weygandt, & Kieso, 2009). |Sales = |Variable costs + |Fixed costs + |Net income + | |$7,800 = |$1,800 |$6,000 |$0 |Monthly Sales Snap Fitness is only able to be successful and profitable as a company if they set their monthly sales goals to achieve. The set monthly sales goals are crucially needed to be set to insure the company’s has the ability to barometer to gauge. This will allow the Snap Fitness to verify cash flow and meet all of the company’s financial obligations. Snap Fitness is also able to use the information to verify t he sales team is meeting their individual and team goals and performance levels.Snap fitness is required to meet $17, 800 in monthly sales to meet the target net income of $10,000. Income amount of $10,000 will insure Snap Fitness will be able to make a profit for the investors and cover costs. For the sales team to make $17,800 they will need to sign-up additional 685 new members. The required sales to meet the $10,000 goal the Target net income formula will need to be used. Required Sales = Variable Cost + Fixed Cost + Target Net Income $17,800 = $1,800 + $6,000 + $10,000 Variable Costs Examples Variable costs are costs that vary in total directly and proportionately with changes in the activity level. If the level increases 10%, total variable costs will increase 10%. If the level of activity decreases by 25%, variable costs will decrease 25%† (Kimmel, Weygandt, and Kieso, 2009, p. 914). Variable costs for this type of franchise will rise as members join. Utilities are vari able costs and will fluctuate based on the amount of activity at the gym. Salaries for staff will also be a variable cost.Personal trainers’ salaries will be different than a sales associate, for example. If the location offers health and wellness programs, a registered dietician will more than likely be employed at the location. A new gym will have less staff in the beginning as opposed to an established gym. As more members join, additional staff will be added to accommodate customers. Taxes and insurance will naturally fluctuate. Insurance is necessary to ensure the business has coverage in the event a customer is injured and to protect the building itself (damages, fire, accidents).As the equipment is consistently used, repairs or replacements will be necessary. These repairs or replacements are a variable cost and will more than likely increase as the business grows and more customers utilize the facility and equipment. In relation to variable costs, business owners will find having knowledge of marginal distribution will help evaluate business performance. Marginal distribution can be calculated as follows: Marginal contribution = Marginal contribution per unit * Number of units sold Marginal contribution per unit = Selling price – Unit variable cost The marginal contribution is the difference between total revenue and totals variable costs and explains how changes the operating profit as changing the number of units sold† (Busan and Dina, 2009, p. 103) . Franchise Opportunities The decision to start a business can sometimes be very difficult due to all of the work associated with planning and implementation. Franchises opportunities are the happy medium to business ownership. A franchise is when an individual or a group has established a right to market a company’s goods or services within a specific area. In a franchise opportunity a rand/ image has already been established for a company as well as products. The owner(s) is r equired to pay an initial fee to start the business while a percentage of the monthly sales have to be paid back to the company. For example anytime fitness, McDonalds, and Subway are all example of franchise operations. Establishing a fitness center has a minimum initial contribution of $80,000 however if the owner(s) are military veterans discounts will be offered. The initial covers equipment, demographics help, a secure surveillance system, customer tracking data, and a well together fitness plan and package.Snap Fitness also offers a financing program which helps with the initial investment cost. Once the agreement has been signed the franchisee is provided with all the benefits and perks. Training is also provided at the corporate headquarters and an advertising plan is in place to help attain new clients. The franchise fee is a set fee that does not increase with sales. Franchise’s make business ownership simplified because the leg work has been done already. However, the negatives are yes a percentage of the sales have to be sent to the franchisor.Understanding the benefits of franchises compared to small business ownership will help make decisions easier about which operation works best. Conclusion As we see franchising a fitness center is a very beneficial investment for individuals or groups looking to operate a business. As an investor it is important to have a concept as to which ownership and entity type works best for them. The breakdown of the variable cost and the break even analysis gives great insight in regards to how the business would need to operate on monthly bases.These key equations are imperative to business operation but it also helps predict future earnings as long as goals are achieved. A franchise opportunity has many perks with a limited amount of risk involved so understanding how things work is beneficial. Snap Fitness offers the ability to open a franchise with great support and package benefits throughout the whole pr ocess. Fitness and health is a great industry because American is trying to be more health conscience. References Anytime Fitness. (2012). Retrieved from http://www. anytimefitness. com/franchise-opportunitiesBusan, G. , & Dina, I. (2009). Using cost-volume-profit analysis in decision making. Annals Of The University Of Petrosani Economics, 9(3), 103-106. Kimmel, P. D. , Weygandt, J. J. , & Kieso, D. E. (2009). Accounting: tools for business decision making (3rd ed. ). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database. Snap Fitness (2011) About Snap Fitness. Retrieved from Snap Fitness (2011). http://www. snapfitness. com/corporate/about Snapfitness. com (2012). Fitness Franchise Opportunity. Retrieved from http://www. snapfitness. com/corporate/franchise-opportunities

Thursday, January 9, 2020

Mtv Essay - 1033 Words

MARINA OREB 13000069 CRST1 ESSAY – OPTION 1 (MTV) MTV can be defined as â€Å"a cable and satellite television channel which broadcasts popular music and promotional music videos.† (oxforddictionaries.com.n.d.). Launched on August 1st 1981, MTV’s programme started out by helping musicians gain exposure through music videos. This helped TV audiences connect with music by new means. As MTV became more recognised, the network branched out by creating new means of entertainment. MTV has remained relevant by continuously adapting throughout its existence to meet their audience’s entertainment requirements. (International MTV and Globalisation). Originally MTV concentrated on rock music and played classical artists such as the ‘Police’. The†¦show more content†¦MTV responded to the demands of their market which has helped them advance and be in the position they are in today. Today, MTV posts networks in over 30 languages in over 130 countries which points out its successfulness in catering for their audience. MTV has succeeded in becoming an undeniable influence, not only in their music but in popular culture as well. (MTV, 2013). Popular culture can be defined as â€Å"The knowledge of current or up-to-date events. It can refer to music, television, film, sports, and anything in the public domain.† (reference.com.n.d.). MTV operates globally and one may argue that MTV shapes their audience tastes however in present times the public has vast options and therefore can easily dictate by choosing the channel that best suits their tastes and wants. MTV’s power to adapt to change has worked to their advantage as they have been able to capture their target audience throughout their existence. MTV was first to establish principles of popular culture. MTV became an iconic presence in popular culture, inspiring visual media culture. 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