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National Academy of Osteopathy

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National Academy of Osteopathy

National Academy of Osteopathy offers on-site (at York University Heights) and online manual osteopathy programs. All OCPCC manual osteopaths are NAO alumni.

NAO is the largest school of osteopathy in the world with alumni in 72 countries. NAO owns OCPCC which has 380 clinics in 34 countries. NAO alumni enjoy annual average income of $150,000 which is $60,000 more than what other manual osteopaths make in Canada. We graduate successful manual osteopaths because we teach them everything we know about business management. NAO professor/president, manual

osteopath, naprapath & chiropractor, Dr Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD, offers more than 250 business lectures to NAO students. The financial success of NAO graduates has helped us expand the profession to 72 countries and become the largest provider of manual osteopathic education in world. Over half of the manual osteopaths in Canada (outside Quebec) are NAO alumni. NAO owns the Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada which has 380 clinics in 34 countries. Our alumni can join College of Registered Manual Osteopaths to become an RMO with the ability to join TELUS HEALTH which gives them direct billing privileges to most health insurers across Canada.

06/14/2026

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

06/13/2026

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

06/12/2026

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

06/11/2026

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

06/07/2026

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

06/04/2026

Volunteer Instructors Needed

We are excited to announce that more than 60 students have registered for our upcoming two-week practical classes in August—the largest class in the past 16 years!

To help ensure an excellent learning experience for everyone, we are inviting National Academy of Osteopathy alumni to volunteer as technique supervisors during the practical sessions. Whether you can assist for just one full day (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) or for the entire 10-day program, your support would be greatly appreciated.

As a volunteer, your name will be added to the NAO Faculty as a Technique Instructor. Your role will be to observe students as they practice techniques, help ensure they are performing them correctly, and provide guidance and corrections when needed. You will not be responsible for teaching the techniques, as that will be done by our instructors.

This is a wonderful opportunity to give back to the profession, assist fellow students, and gain recognition as part of the NAO instructional team.

If you are interested, please contact Maria at NAO for more information.

Please note that this will be the final large practical class of its kind. Beginning in 2027, we will offer four practical classes per year, instead of two, allowing for smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning experience.

Thank you in advance for your support. We look forward to working with you and making this our best practical class yet!

06/03/2026

We now have over 60 students registered for our upcoming two-week practical classes in August—the largest practical class in the 16-year history of the National Academy of Osteopathy!

Currently, we offer these practical classes twice each year. Our last session welcomed more than 50 students, and with enrollment continuing to grow, we have decided that beginning in 2027 we will offer four two-week practical sessions annually to better accommodate demand and provide a more manageable learning environment for our students.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting the York University Heights campus of National Academy of Osteopathy and was delighted to see our students in action. Their enthusiasm and dedication reminded me why I love what I do.

Later this month, I will be leaving Canada to visit three Caribbean islands for a series of meetings with mayors and government officials regarding the potential establishment of a medical school for the National University of Medical Sciences (Spain).

I expect to be away for about a month, but I look forward to returning in August to attend our practical classes and then welcoming a new group of students to the campus-based DOMP program in September.

Exciting times lie ahead for both NAO and NUMSS!

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

05/26/2026

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

05/21/2026

For some reason, I’m currently unable to send emails to Gmail accounts from [email protected]. I’m receiving a notice that, due to a high volume of emails, additional authentication steps (SPF, DKIM, DMARC, etc.) are required.

I’ve asked our IT technician to investigate and resolve this issue. In the meantime, if you use a Gmail address, please contact me from an alternative email or reach out to me privately via Facebook.

Thank you for your understanding.

Dr Shawn Pourgol

Address

375 Canarctic Drive, Suite 21
Toronto, ON
M3J2P9

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Website

http://www.nationalacademyofosteopathy.com/

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