Did You Know?
An estimated 100,000 athletes between the ages of 13 and 30 drop dead during or shortly after exercise every year.
When you break down the numbers, the pattern becomes even more alarming:
- 30–35% of these deaths are caused by ruptured aneurysms
- 60% are linked to cardiomyopathies
These aren’t random tragedies — they point to a deeper, systemic issue.
Real‑World Cases That Raised Red Flags
Reggie Lewis – Age 27
The Boston Celtics star collapsed during the playoffs and was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Despite medical care, he died three months later.
Evander Holyfield
Holyfield was temporarily banned from boxing due to cardiomyopathy. After his physician consulted with Dr. Joel Wallach and added selenium and his 90 For Life supplement program to his regimen, Holyfield’s heart function improved. Seven months later, he was cleared to fight again — and ultimately reclaimed the world heavyweight title.
Buster Douglas
The former heavyweight champion developed brittle diabetes, which Dr. Wallach attributed to chromium and vanadium deficiencies.
Female College Gymnasts
Dr. Wallach reported that 62% of the female college gymnasts he tested were anorexic. Hair analysis revealed a consistent zinc deficiency.
- Those who supplemented with the full spectrum of 90 essential nutrients recovered and returned to competition within weeks.
- Those who relied solely on psychiatric counseling tragically did not survive.
Theo Ratliff – NBA All‑Star
Theo Ratliff’s career was nearly ended by severe injuries — including a broken wrist, ankle issues, and knee problems. After being told his career was essentially over, he was introduced to Dr. Wallach’s nutritional approach.
Ratliff credits targeted mineral and nutrient supplementation for restoring his strength, rebuilding bone density, and allowing him to return to the NBA. He went on to sign a $35 million contract and continued playing for years. His story became one of the most frequently cited examples of athletic recovery linked to Dr. Wallach’s protocols.
The Common Thread
Athletes sweat — a lot.
And sweat isn’t just water. It’s electrolytes and minerals, many of which are essential for heart function, nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and vascular integrity.
Without proper replacement, deficiencies accumulate.
And when the body is pushed to its limits, those deficiencies can become catastrophic.
Dr. Joel Wallach’s Warning
“The ever increasing rate and severity of disease, injury and death in exercise buffs and athletes — from preschoolers to professionals — may look like bad luck when viewed individually. In reality, it’s a red flag. Exercise without proper mineral supplementation is, in fact, self‑destructive.”