Episode 455: A Rare Disease to Know — ATTR Cardiomyopathy

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn dives into surprising results from recent medical research. The most eye-opening? Women recovering from a heart attack with relatively preserved heart function were found to have higher mortality risk when discharged on beta-blockers — a finding that challenges 40 years of clinical practice. Dr. Kahn urges listeners to discuss these results with their own healthcare teams. Other unexpected studies are highlighted too, including new insights on taurine, spermidine, meal timing, ketogenic diets, aspirin therapy, and even sugar substitutes.  Special thanks to igennus.com — use discount code DrKahn for savings.

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn shares the case of a patient at the Kahn Center diagnosed with ATTR cardiomyopathy, a serious disorder in which a protein (amyloid) infiltrates the heart and can be fatal. It is often associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy, and spinal stenosis. Fortunately, exciting new therapies are now available. Other topics in this episode include the latest cholesterol guidelines, niacin and mood, Galleri cancer screening, “inflammaging” in native cultures, beta-blockers after heart attack, menopause and aging, and inflammation in women. Thanks to Igennus.com — use discount code DrKahn.

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn reviews the latest research on men’s health, focusing on diet and prostate cancer. He highlights findings that support whole-food, plant-based diets and discusses the connection between prostate cancer, heart disease, and the cardiovascular risks associated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Other topics covered include plant-based diets and disease rates, the role of LDL cholesterol in soft plaque formation, TMAO in abdominal aortic aneurysms and kidney disease, periodontal disease and its impact on heart health, saccharin and cardiovascular risk, extreme physical activity and carotid plaque, and the effects of Tylenol use during pregnancy.  Dr. Kahn also reviews new research on cyclodextrin suppositories, a paper examining the impact of statins on blood sugar, and the potential role of TUDCA as a possible antidote.  Resources mentioned in this episode include the cyclodextrin paper available at www.atherocare.com/drjoelkahn and details on TUDCA at https://shop.drjoelkahn.com/catalog/product/view/id/17560/s/tudca-tauroursodeoxycholic-acid-60-capsules/. Special thanks to our sponsor Igennus.com, use discount code DrKahn for all products.

In this episode, Dr. Brooke Goldner shares her powerful story of overcoming a severe case of lupus using a nutrition protocol she created centered on green smoothies, plant-based omega-3s, and hydration. Today, she helps people with autoimmune conditions and heart disease through her Goodbye Lupus program, which she believes can trigger rapid cellular healing and transformation.

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down the latest guidelines for preventing and treating high blood pressure. He reviews the top 10 lessons from an important new medical article and encourages every listener to own a home blood pressure cuff, use it regularly, and aim for readings under 120/80. Along the way, he also discusses new research on Lipoprotein(a) myths, EMF exposure, cystatin C kidney lab tests, the Fasting Mimicking Diet and its impact on kidney health (prolonlife.com/drkahn), and the role of vitamin C in overall wellness. Thanks to igennus.com for supporting the show, with a special discount available using the code DrKahn.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn dives into the latest science proving that exercise isn’t just good for you—it’s essential. From brisk walking to hitting that magic mark of 150+ minutes a week, moving your body can protect your brain, your heart, and even extend your life. It’s a prescription you can’t skip. He also shares fresh research on coffee’s impact on blood pressure, how vitamin B3 and green tea support brain health, semaglutide’s potential to reverse aging, and a lab test (MVX) that can predict mortality risk. Plus, he looks at the surprising connection between french fries and diabetes, why CoQ10 may help lower diabetes risk, and how olive oil can improve cholesterol levels.  Thanks to Igennus.com — use code DrKahn for a discount.

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.