Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn

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.