In a recent episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones speaks with renowned cardiologist Dr. Joel Kahn about the importance of proactive heart health care. They discuss preventive cardiology, advanced testing, and lifestyle changes that can significantly impact heart health.

Key Takeaways

• Preventive cardiology focuses on identifying and managing risk factors for heart disease.
• A heart calcium CT scan is a crucial test for assessing heart health, especially for women starting at age 45.
• Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, play a significant role in preventing heart disease.
• Key supplements can support cardiovascular health.

What Is Preventive Cardiology?

Preventive cardiology is a specialized field that emphasizes the importance of preventing heart disease before it occurs. Dr. Kahn explains that this approach is often overlooked in traditional medical settings, where the focus tends to be on treating existing conditions rather than preventing them.

He highlights that many heart-related issues, such as high blood pressure and strokes, can be managed through lifestyle changes and advanced testing.

The Importance Of Heart Calcium CT Scans

One of the standout recommendations from Dr. Kahn is the heart calcium CT scan. This test is essential for identifying potential heart issues before they become serious.

• Recommended Age: Women should consider getting this test starting at age 45.
• Cost: The test typically costs around $100, which is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
• Procedure: It involves lying in a CT scanner for a few minutes, and it’s generally safe with minimal radiation exposure.

Dr. Kahn emphasizes that many people are unaware of this test, and it should be more widely recommended by healthcare providers.

Lifestyle Changes For Heart Health

Dr. Kahn stresses that lifestyle plays a crucial role in heart health. Here are some key lifestyle pillars he recommends:

1. Diet: A whole food, plant-based diet is ideal for heart health. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential. Even short bursts of exercise can be beneficial.
3. Sleep: Quality sleep is vital for overall health and can impact heart health significantly.
4. Stress Management: Finding ways to manage stress, whether through meditation, yoga, or other methods, is crucial.

Key Supplements For Cardiovascular Health

In addition to lifestyle changes, Dr. Kahn discusses several supplements that can support heart health:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Important for reducing inflammation and supporting heart function.
• Coenzyme Q10: Beneficial for energy production in cells and may help lower blood pressure.
• Garlic Extract: Shown to lower cholesterol and improve overall heart health.

Advanced Testing For Heart Disease

For those who may already have risk factors or a family history of heart disease, Dr. Kahn recommends advanced testing:

• Lipid Panels: To assess cholesterol levels and particle sizes.
• Insulin Resistance Tests: To evaluate metabolic health.
• Inflammation Markers: Such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, to assess inflammation levels in the body.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

The conversation also touches on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women, especially during menopause. Dr. Kahn notes that HRT can have positive effects on heart health when managed correctly.

Conclusion

Dr. Joel Kahn’s insights into heart health are invaluable for anyone looking to take charge of their cardiovascular well-being. By focusing on preventive measures, lifestyle changes, and appropriate testing, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease.

For more information on heart health and preventive cardiology, consider following Dr. Kahn’s work and exploring the resources available through The Root Cause Medicine Podcast.