This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn dives into a new study showing that many Americans have a “heart age” older than their actual age — and what that means for your long-term health. He breaks down 5 online heart risk calculators that can help you assess your chances of heart attack and stroke.

Plus, Dr. Kahn weighs in on the ongoing cholesterol and egg debate, reviews new heart medication data, and shares research on spirulina’s potential to lower blood pressure.

For more, check out the blog post: 5 Heart Calculators to Know Your Risk Assessment 

Special thanks to igennus.com — use discount code DrKahn at checkout.

In modern cardiology, toxins like microplastics and PFOS have emerged as significant risks to heart health. Although they’re often referred to as “forever chemicals,” therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been shown to dramatically reduce their levels in the body.

Dr. Paul Savage and mdlifespan.com are leading the way with advanced clinics that offer comprehensive programs combining education, testing, and therapy to address the toxic exposures affecting our hearts, brains, immune systems, and more.

This week, Dr. Kahn discussed a new paper about the power of a Zero Score Calcium CT Scan in people without symptoms but concerns for soft plaque (non-calcified) in those with symptoms. Generally, patients with symptoms are better tested by Coronary CT Angiograms (CCTA), optimally with FFR and Cleerly Software analysis. He provides case studies from the clinic.

Other topics include plant diets for Crohn's Disease prevention, the goal of 7,000 steps a day, Lipoprotein(a) and stroke, heart and brain risk control benefits, strategies to avoid weight gain, and erythritol and heart disease. 

Thanks to Igennus.com and the discount code DrKahn.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Kahn dives into a fascinating new discovery in cardiovascular science — a molecule called ImP, produced by gut bacteria, which may play a role in the development of atherosclerosis. While we’re still a ways off from clinical tests and treatments, Dr. Kahn offers actionable steps you can take now to support your heart health.

Also on the menu: a surprising conversation about the President’s ankles, a head-to-head comparison of the ketogenic and plant-based diets when it comes to cancer risk, how whole grains affect gout, and the benefits of Tai Chi for better sleep. 

Big thanks to igennus.com — use discount code DrKahn for savings.

In this special bonus episode, Dr. Joel Kahn welcomes the legendary Dr. Michael Greger—founder of NutritionFacts.org and bestselling author of How Not to Die.

Together, they explore how a whole food, plant-based diet can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. They also dig into the surprising downside of statin medications and their link to rising blood sugar levels, as well as whether stents truly help outside of emergency situations like heart attacks.

It’s an eye-opening conversation packed with science, practical tips, and a fresh look at how we approach heart health.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Kahn revisits the powerful role exercise plays in overall health and its ability to extend your “healthspan”—the years you live free from chronic disease. He puts a unique spin on the topic by exploring two recent studies on the benefits of wearing weighted vests, both during workouts and throughout the day, for supporting weight loss maintenance.

Shorter topics this week include the link between excess weight and postmenopausal breast cancer risk, as well as the often absent warning signs before a first heart attack. 

Special thanks to igennus.com for supporting the show. Use discount code DrKahn to save on your next order.

This bonus episode features wellness entrepreneur and sprout advocate Doug Evans, diving into the surprising heart-health benefits of one of nature’s simplest superfoods: sprouts.

Learn how seeds—packed with essential nutrients—can be transformed into a fresh, living food source right in your own kitchen. Sprouts support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, and Doug shares just how easy it is to get started.

Plus, hear about The Sprouting Company and their all-in-one system, which includes organic seeds, sprouting jars, a helpful guidebook, and a companion app to help you grow your own health.

This week, Dr. Kahn reviews a strange and increasingly common condition affecting nearly half a million Americans: Alpha-Gal Syndrome, also known as red meat allergy. First described in 2009, this syndrome can cause serious allergic reactions and is often misdiagnosed—despite the fact that a simple blood test can confirm it.

The condition is triggered by bites from certain ticks, most notably the Lone Star Tick. Because many vitamins, medications, and medical products contain animal-derived components, reactions can even occur in medical and dental settings. Learn more at PillClarity.org. 

Short topics this week include: whole grains for lower blood pressure, lifestyle approaches to prevent atrial fibrillation, the fasting-mimicking diet and exercise for reversing prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, and new trends in U.S. heart disease statistics.

Thanks to Igennus.com and the discount code DrKahn.

This week, Dr. Kahn presents new research highlighting the growing concern that microplastics are showing up in our water, soil, and even our bodies. Emerging evidence suggests they may contribute to a range of disease states. A surprising finding: a strain of bacteria found in kimchi may help counteract BPA exposure—another great reason to include fermented foods in your diet.

A number of quick-hit topics are also covered, including leafy greens for artery health, plant-based diets and sexual health, the potential benefits of hot tubs, the connection between loneliness and heart health, the role of dietary niacin, and how plant-based eating supports weight loss. 

Thanks to igennus.com and the discount code DrKahn.

This week, Dr. Kahn discussed two patients at the Kahn Center who were referred for cardiac bypass surgery (CABG) but have chosen to pursue a science-backed, yet rigorous, program of lifestyle and medication. Dr. Kahn discussed the new CENTURY study, which demonstrated that "comprehensive" care over five years in heart patients significantly improved outcomes and helped avoid CABG.

Dr. Kahn goes on to review shorter topics including a new video by Valter Longo, Ph.D. (WATCH HERE), conflicts in research on meat, outcomes on statin Rx medications, black vs. sweet coffee, low-fiber and red meat diets on heart plaque, and the Sit-to-Stand test. 

Thanks to igennus.com and the discount code DRKAHN.