Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses two large new studies examining the role of routine coronary artery calcium CT scoring around age 61 and its impact on clinical outcomes. Dr. Kahn favors getting a first calcium CT score at age 45 or younger. One study found that potentially unnecessary statin use was three times higher when a calcium CT score was not available. Patients were also much more likely to follow their recommended treatment when calcium scoring results were available. The second study found that CT results led to a major change in therapy for one in five people. These are encouraging findings that further support the #TestNotGuess approach. Other topics include: Low cardiac risk at age 42 and long-term outcomes Working from home and prolonged sitting Piping-hot drinks and esophageal cancer Menopausal hormone therapy and heart risk The prevalence of omega-3 deficiency Ahiflower as an omega-3 supplement Blood pressure and dementia Gout and heart disease Thanks to Central Coast Live Foods . Use discount code DrKahn10 on Kraut Krackers and Trail Salad fermented crackers.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses the widespread disappointment following Novartis' announcement that its 8,000-patient HORIZON trial of a lipoprotein(a)-lowering drug failed to meet its primary endpoint. The news came as a major surprise and disappointment to patients eagerly awaiting access to this medication. No additional details have been released, and there is not yet a published paper to review. Dr. Kahn discusses the possible reasons the trial failed and what he plans to do moving forward. Other topics include lifestyle factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest, mindfulness for elevated blood pressure, hormone therapy and the female brain during menopause, the risks of off-label testosterone therapy in men, GLP-1 medications and lifespan, Mounjaro and cardiovascular risk, TMAO and brain atrophy, statins and reduced dementia risk, and the connection between adverse pregnancy outcomes and future cardiovascular disease. Dr. Kahn's new book, Don't Drop Dead , is available in print, audiobook, and Kindle formats on Amazon . Finally, thanks to WellBean and its amazing bean bars. Use promo code DrKahn15 to save money on your order.

Dr. Kahn interviews Anurag Singh, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer of Timeline Nutrition , whose research has focused on urolithin A, a compound produced from nutrients found in pomegranates. Nearly 20 years of research have resulted in more than 500 studies, 25 human clinical trials, and 80 patents related to this unique compound, which is available in powders, capsules, and even gummies. Research suggests that urolithin A may safely support mitochondrial renewal and muscle strength. Timeline Nutrition was also selected as a finalist in the $101 million XPRIZE Healthspan competition. Listeners can use the discount code KAHN10 to save on orders from Timeline Nutrition.

This week, Dr. Kahn reviews several important studies presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress. The REACT trial examined how often previously undetected atherosclerosis appears in the coronary, carotid, and femoral arteries. The results are startling and reinforce the importance of the #TestNotGuess approach to cardiovascular health. Dr. Kahn also discusses encouraging research showing how plant-based diets may reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Additional topics include: NT-proBNP testing for predicting future cardiovascular disease The connection between coronary calcium scores and dementia risk Hormone replacement therapy and dementia Dietary flavanols and Parkinson's disease Blood pressure medications that may help protect the brain Blood thinners for people with lower-risk atrial fibrillation Vitamin K2 and the progression of coronary calcification This episode is sponsored by delicious and healthy WellBean . Use discount code DrKahn15 at checkout.

This week, Dr. Kahn returns to one of his passion topics: educating young people about healthy lifestyles beginning in middle school and high school, if not earlier, and setting them up for a healthy future. A new study finds that the risk of heart disease and actual changes in the arteries are both common by age 23. It's a tragic reality. Other topics include dry cleaning and Parkinson's disease, amino acids and prostate cancer risk, meal timing and longevity, cooking classes and healthy diets ( PlantRN ), statins at age 80, exercise and the reversal of artery disease, lipoprotein(a) and heart disease, and alcohol versus healthy lifestyles in relation to the risk of sudden cardiac death. Thanks to WellBean for sponsoring this episode. Use the discount code DrKahn15 on delicious and healthy food bars made with legumes. They're my favorite snack.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses the triglyceride-to-HDL (TG/HDL) ratio and how this simple lab measurement can help predict insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and heart disease. It is also a marker of visceral fat and an easy, readily available way to add valuable risk information to your health journey. Dr. Kahn also discusses how genetics can influence the TG/HDL ratio. Other topics include tomatoes for the liver, tirzepatide for the heart, lifestyle for the heart, junk food and prostate cancer, belly fat and the heart, alcohol and the heart, and the power of climbing stairs. Thanks to our sponsor, WellBean. Their delicious bean-based bars make it easy to add more plant-based nutrition to your day. Visit wellbean.life and use discount code DrKahn15 to save on your order.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses new research showing that after just 4 weeks of eating a whole-food, plant-based diet, sophisticated measures of gene activity demonstrate a reversal in aging and a reduction in inflammation. In another study, the calorie advantage of a plant-based diet is discussed, with the equation H=N/C (Health = Nutrition/Calories) proving to be a useful reminder. Finally, athletic performance in college athletes eating plant-based or omnivore diets was equivalent, which is reassuring to many. Dr. Kahn and his wife will begin their 50th year of plant-based diets in September. Other topics include more conversation on advanced glycation end products, dietary protein, finerenone for the kidneys, the top 3 modifiable risk factors for dementia and heart attacks, red hair color and heart disease, Viagra and statins for the prevention of cancer metastases, and fatty liver disease. Thanks to our sponsor, WellBean , and the discount code DrKahn15 for sponsoring this week's episode.

This week, Dr. Kahn discussed new research on advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and cooking methods. High levels of AGEs promote many disease states and can be avoided with water-based cooking methods like steaming, boiling, and pressure cooking. Other topics include visceral fat loss and brain health, bitter hops extract for weight loss, the Planetary Health Diet, fructose in the diet and cancer growth, a failed study on inflammation, and the role of multivitamins in cardiac health. Thanks to the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club and the $1 offer at getfreshDrKahn.com .

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses new data from the amazing Valter Longo, PhD, and his colleagues regarding optimizing diet for both longevity and strong muscles. In a new publication, Dr. Longo used mouse models to show that animals fed a Longevity Diet, as described in his book, lived longer. However, when moderate amounts of methionine, an amino acid, were included in the diet, frailty was avoided. He then analyzed a dataset of 200,000 health professionals in the United States and found that those consuming the highest amounts of animal protein had double the risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as higher rates of obesity and hypertension, compared with those consuming more plant protein. You can learn more about Dr. Longo's L-Protein powder (with methionine) at prolonlife.com/drkahn . Other topics include PCOS and heart disease, aortic dissection, artificial sweeteners and memory loss, optimal medical treatment for high cholesterol, GLP-1 agonist use and hair loss, TMAO and the risk of atrial fibrillation, statins and better cognitive function in women, and how plant mitochondria may improve our own cellular function. Amazing. Thanks to the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. Learn more at getfreshDrKahn.com . Dr. Kahn's new book can be found here: amazon.com/dp/B0HBGJ4J59

In this bonus episode, Dr. Kahn interviews functional medicine specialist Ivan Rusilko about the importance of advanced lab panels. Together, they explore the full spectrum of cardiac lab testing, with a special focus on inflammation, insulin resistance, and how these markers can uncover hidden cardiovascular risk. If you are a health care practitioner, set up an account at accessmedlab.com . Mention the Heart Doc VIP Podcast when creating your new practitioner account to receive 50% off CardioPro™ Advanced Diagnostic Panels , providing unparalleled insights into patient health.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses the FDA approval of the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor, Lipfendra (enclicitide), taken as a 20 mg daily tablet. In a study of nearly 3,000 patients with elevated LDL cholesterol despite treatment with statins and, in many cases, ezetimibe, LDL-C dropped by more than 50% while Lipoprotein(a) levels fell by 28%, with an excellent safety profile. The medication is expected to retail for approximately $315 per month and will be available in pharmacies soon. A larger outcomes trial evaluating its impact on heart attack and stroke rates is currently underway. Other topics include oatmeal for diabetes, avocados for cholesterol, ketogenic diets and cancer, serotonin and heart valve disease, air pollution and cardiovascular events, and the relationship between sweetened beverages, fruit juice, and high blood pressure. Dr. Kahn also mentions the air filtration system he uses at home and in his office, available at: airdoctorpro.com Finally, thanks to this week's sponsor, the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. Learn more at getfreshDrKahn.com .

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn explores important new research showing how elevated inflammation, measured by Interleukin-6 (IL-6), may dramatically increase cardiovascular risk in people with high Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). He explains why IL-6 is emerging as an important biomarker and reviews the other inflammation tests he routinely uses at the Kahn Center, including hs-CRP, MPO, Lp-PLA2, NT-proBNP, fibrinogen, ferritin, the sedimentation rate, and the white blood cell count. Dr. Kahn also discusses Lilly's newly approved oral weight loss medication, the ABCDEF framework for cardiovascular prevention, the growing evidence linking erectile dysfunction and sleep apnea to heart disease, new research on cannabis use and coronary artery plaque, and intriguing early findings on creatine's potential role in supporting the immune system and anti-tumor activity. Finally, thanks to this week's sponsor, the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. Visit getfreshDrKahn.com to take advantage of their special introductory offer and experience the health benefits of fresh, polyphenol-rich olive oil.

Dr. Joel Kahn explores the latest science on supplements that may help slow or reverse atherosclerosis, building on a recent discussion from Simon Hill's The Proof podcast. He takes a closer look at the evidence behind vitamin K2, niacin, pycnogenol with centella asiatica, beta-cyclodextrin, and bergamot, explaining where the research is strongest and what it could mean for heart health. Additional topics include new research on nutrient deficiencies to watch for in vegan diets, the potential kidney risks of certain calcium channel blockers, the health benefits of onions, advanced plaque measurements from coronary CT angiography, the connection between periodontal disease and kidney disease, and how fasting-mimicking diets may improve gum health. Dr. Kahn also reviews encouraging early results from an emerging Lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapy that could reduce the need for lipoprotein apheresis. Dr. Kahn is leading a group PROLON fasting-mimicking diet beginning this Sunday, July 12, and continuing for five days. A PROLON kit is required and can be purchased at prolonlife.com/drkahn . The NextGen version is recommended. Finally, a giant thanks to this week's sponsor, Igennus. Learn more at igennus.com/drkahn .

This week, Dr. Kahn reviews important new research showing that the commonly prescribed antidepressant Prozac (fluoxetine) may disrupt cholesterol metabolism, injure the endothelium (the delicate lining of arteries), and potentially increase cardiovascular risk. He also examines growing evidence linking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and several common cancer therapies to endothelial damage, emphasizing that patients should always discuss the risks and benefits of these medications with their healthcare team rather than stopping treatment on their own. Other topics include new Harvard research showing that combining aerobic exercise, strength training, and less time spent watching television can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 60%; promising data on niacin for glioblastoma brain cancer; predicting statin-related muscle injury; the protective effects of plant-based diets against heart disease, dementia, and several cancers; tea consumption and lower cardiovascular risk; vitamin K-rich leafy greens and lung health; whole grains and breast cancer prevention; and the latest research on red meat, inflammatory bowel disease, and hypertension. Thanks to igennus.com/drkahn for this week's podcast sponsorship featuring their vegan Super B Complex.

Can a simple gratitude practice improve your heart health? This week, Dr. Kahn explores the growing science linking gratitude to better well-being, improved sleep, lower inflammation, and even enhanced cardiac function. He shares his own gratitude practices and offers practical ways to incorporate them into daily life. Also covered in this episode: how adherence to Life's Essential 8 is associated with longevity, even among the ultra-elderly; the importance of identifying cholesterol hyperabsorbers; the connection between obesity and cancer risk; the relationship between sleep apnea and Lipoprotein(a); why strength training is especially important for women; and the link between hypothyroidism and elevated homocysteine levels. Thanks to IGENNUS for their support of this episode, featuring their vegan Pro-Collagen Powder. Learn more at igennus.com/drkahn .

In this special 500th episode of Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn reflects on the personal and professional journey that shaped his 36-year career in cardiology and preventive medicine. From his childhood in Detroit and medical training at the University of Michigan to founding the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity, Dr. Kahn shares the mentors, experiences, and lessons that influenced his approach to patient care. He also reviews new research on heart disease mortality in the United States, vitamin K2 and coronary artery calcium progression, plant-based diets for chronic kidney disease, factors influencing carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and emerging advances in calcium scoring technology. Thank you to Igennus for sponsoring this milestone episode. Visit Igennus.com/DrKahn and use code DRKAHN for savings on their vegan-certified supplements.

In Episode 499, Dr. Joel Kahn explores the growing importance of apolipoprotein B (ApoB) testing as a powerful tool for assessing cardiovascular risk. He reviews new research highlighting why ApoB may provide a more complete picture of atherosclerosis risk than traditional cholesterol measurements alone and explains how it relates to LDL-C and Lp(a). Dr. Kahn also discusses several noteworthy studies in preventive medicine and longevity, including research linking GLP-1 medications to lower cancer risk, the potential DNA-protective effects of melatonin, and new findings on stroke and clot prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. Additional topics include the relationship between very low Lp(a) levels and diabetes risk, the benefits of organic produce for breast cancer prevention, Pilates training for blood pressure management, and the connection between processed meat consumption and gastrointestinal cancers. The episode concludes with a look at Endothelin-1 (ET-1), an important marker involved in vascular health and cardiovascular disease, along with a discussion of Vinia grape powder and its potential role in lowering ET-1 levels. Thanks to Igennus.com and their Triple Vitamin K Complex using the discount code DrKahn

Dr. Joel Kahn dives into a groundbreaking Phase 1 trial of Verve 102, a one-time intravenous gene-editing treatment that silences the PCSK9 gene to produce lasting LDL cholesterol reduction. Among 35 participants, the high-dose group saw LDL drop by 62% with mostly mild side effects — promising results, though Phase 2 and 3 trials and 15 years of follow-up still lie ahead. Also covered: updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines now starting at age 45, healthy lifestyle habits cutting mortality risk in cancer survivors by one-third, real-world weight regain data after stopping GLP-1 medications, why your B12 "normal" range may be too low, a blood test that may predict Alzheimer's years in advance, and a longevity preparedness tool from MIT AgeLab. Sponsored by Igennus — visit igennus.com/drkahn for 20% off.

In this episode of HeartDoc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn breaks down the newly released — but not yet fully published — results from the highly anticipated Triumph-1 study on retatrutide, an investigational weight loss medication that's already generating major buzz in the cardiometabolic world. The reported weight loss results at 80 and 104 weeks are remarkable, with side effects appearing consistent with other medications in this class, including semaglutide and tirzepatide. Dr. Kahn discusses what's known so far, what questions still remain, and why the full peer-reviewed publication is so important before drawing final conclusions on risks and benefits. FDA approval may not be far away. Other topics in this packed episode include the troubling rise in fatal heart attacks among younger adults, a modified Mediterranean diet linked to lower diabetes risk, the connection between food preservatives and heart disease, atrial fibrillation in athletes, nitric oxide's role in brain health, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular risk, and how the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 score may predict diabetes risk in women. Thanks to Igennus for sponsoring this episode. Visit their site and use promo code DRKAHN to save on high-quality supplements.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses Bryan Johnson's efforts to reverse his "biological age" and the 41 lessons he has shared along the way. These are valuable insights that Dr. Kahn largely endorses. Other topics include the sit-to-stand test; how PCOS can become PMOS; therapies for Peyronie's disease and PSA testing; plant-based diets and aging; plant-based diets during pregnancy; pregnancy complications; and the cardiac health of offspring. A big thanks to Igennus for supporting the podcast. Use discount code DrKahn to save on the BeKind line of plant-based nutritional products.