Dr. Matt McAllister
Asst Professor, Department of Health and Human Performance
Research Areas:
Methods to mitigate physiological effects of stressors in high-stress occupations (e.g., firefighters, law enforcement). Impact of nutraceuticals and dietary modification on markers of health and performance. Impact of dietary or exercise interventions on metabolic/oxidative stress induced by caloric dense feedings.
Background
Dr. McAllister leads the Metabolic and Applied Physiology (MAP) Lab, where he researches the physiological effects of stressors and ways to mitigate these effects in high stress occupations, such as firefighters and law enforcement. Dr. McAllister received his BS in Health and Human Performance from the University of Memphis, an MS in Exercise Science from the University of Memphis, and a PhD in Nutrition from Mississippi State University.
About Faculty Fellows Projects
Dr. Matt McAllister investigated the relationship between markers of stress and cardiovascular disease in professional firefighters. His Faculty Fellows project supported biomarker analysis as well as an extensive outreach campaign to fire stations across Texas and a well-attended webinar to disseminate his findings about the importance of fitness testing in this community.
Research Impact Highlights
Advanced biomarker research identified cardiorespiratory fitness as a critical factor in reducing cardiovascular disease risk among firefighters, helping inform wellness practices and fitness testing initiatives across fire departments.
Heart Health Matters
Biomarker insights reveal how fitness reduces cardiovascular disease risk in high-stress fire service environments.
Fit to Fight
Cardiorespiratory fitness plays a critical role in lowering cardiovascular risk and improving firefighter performance under stress.
Stronger, Safer Crews
Research shows that better fitness and stress management can significantly improve firefighter health outcomes.
Featured Media
The webinar drew participation from across Texas, with attendees joining from San Antonio, Austin, San Marcos, Midland, Longview, Houston, Lewisville, College Station, Hutto, Abilene, Arlington, Waco, Denton, and El Paso.
Featured Publication
Dr. McAllister participated in the first campus-wide Health+Resilience Research Network meeting to share his research with the TXST community.
McAllister, M. (2022). A holistic approach to health, immunity, and post COVID-19 rehabilitation. Health+ Resilience Research Network, San Marcos, Texas.