Episode 445: The Power of Exercise and Weighted Vests

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.

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses the experience at the Kahn Center with patients showing persistent levels of antibodies to the spike protein from either a COVID-19 illness, vaccination, or both. New data is presented, and treatment protocols are reviewed—while recognizing that more research is still needed. Short topics include fruits and vegetables for better sleep and healthy aging, yoga for the heart, the 30-year risk of heart disease, and EMF exposure and its impact on the heart. Thanks to igennus.com and the discount code DRKAHN for their full line of products.

This week, Dr. Kahn brings up the topic of the mind’s role in heart health. A randomized trial of Transcendental Meditation (TM) in patients at high risk for heart events over 5 years showed powerful benefits, including reduced CIMT thickness on ultrasound. He also discusses the role of hope in heart patients, and a trial that found statins did not worsen depression in those affected. Mindful eating is also covered, with data showing it’s linked to higher-quality, plant-based dietary patterns. Chew your food and be grateful. Shorter topics include pycnogenol for cellulite, diet drinks and diabetes risk, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and aging reversal, and the benefits of chickpeas, black beans, olive oil, and the Portfolio Diet for reducing heart deaths.  Thanks to igennus.com — use code DRKAHN at checkout.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn explores a groundbreaking new topic: predicting dementia before symptoms appear. Would you want to know if your brain health is at risk—even while your memory still feels sharp? New blood tests may offer insight, and the results could open the door to preventative strategies involving diet, sleep, exercise, and targeted supplements. Dr. Kahn also tackles several fast facts in the "hot topics" section: Is there a link between cell phone use and prostate cancer? Can EMF exposure during MRI scans contribute to disease? Does sugar intake—especially from sodas—actually increase your risk for type 2 diabetes? Plus, thanks to this week’s sponsor, Igennus, whose chewable Vitamin C supplement is available now with the discount code DRKAHN. Tune in for practical tips, intriguing science, and the power of knowing—before it’s too late.

In this special bonus episode of Heart Doc VIP, I’m joined by my friend and cohost of the Reversing Heart Disease Summit, Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo. A Metabolic Recovery Specialist and Founder of the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology, Dr. Ritamarie brings over 30 years of clinical experience to her mission of teaching "empowered self-care." She’s a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with advanced certifications in Acupuncture, Clinical Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, and HeartMath®. Her approach blends natural healing methods with cutting-edge science to create personalized wellness programs that support lasting metabolic and cardiovascular health.