Episode 467: Is Melatonin Use a Risk for Heart Health?

This week, Dr. Kahn provides details on presentations just made and published at the annual scientific meeting of the American Heart Association in New Orleans. Topics include a polypill for heart failure, coffee for atrial fibrillation, an oral PCSK9 inhibitor, beta-blockers after heart attacks, gene editing to lower cholesterol, and the use of PCSK9 inhibitors (Repatha) in a randomized trial of patients at risk for heart attack and stroke.  Dr. Kahn also reviews the role of lycopene in preventing prostate cancer (think tomatoes), colchicine in heart patients, the power of combining statins with ezetimibe, earlier mitral valve repairs, and new data suggesting that drugs like tadalafil (Cialis) may reduce the risk of death and dementia.  Dr. Kahn thanks tryauri.com/drkahn for their support and discount for listeners of Heart Doc VIP.

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down new research presented at the American Heart Association linking melatonin use to congestive heart failure. Should you be concerned? He shares his expert perspective. Also in this episode: aspirin use in diabetes, fruit's role in Parkinson's disease, how metformin affects exercise results, the impact of heavy metals like mercury on heart health, why daily walking supports "Life's Essential 8" for Alzheimer's prevention, new CCTA data proving the benefits of statins, and how marriage might influence aging.  Don't forget to sample some high-quality olive oil at getfreshdrkahn.com.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn reviews the latest advances in treating aortic and mitral valve disease. While prevention remains the cornerstone of heart health, not all valve conditions can be avoided — and many require medical or surgical intervention beyond lifestyle changes. Dr. Kahn brings you up to date on the newest valve therapies and what they mean for patients. Short topics this week include semaglutide's effects on the heart, the connection between gum disease and brain health, the media's role in shaping medical news, the healthiest antidote to sitting, stem cells for heart repair, the value of calcium scoring, and how fruits and vegetables can improve sleep.  Dr. Kahn also invites listeners to explore catchbio.com — the first cancer screening and prevention risk app. Use code DRKAHN to save 25% on the annual subscription. And don't miss out on high-quality EVOO from getfreshdrkahn.com — just $1 for shipping!

In this bonus episode, Dr. Kahn sits down with Dr. William Hsu, Chief Medical Officer at L-Nutra (Prolon) and former Harvard Medical School faculty member, for a fascinating look at how fasting can help put Type 2 diabetes into remission. Dr. Hsu explains why muscle mass is crucial for managing diabetes — it's where glucose gets absorbed — and how the Fasting Mimicking Diet (just five days a month for six or more months) can lead to incredible results. The program not only supports blood sugar control but also helps preserve muscle and target belly fat, which is exactly what you want from healthy weight loss. Check out the programs mentioned in the episode:  🔗 Prolon — prolonlife.com/drkahn 🔗 L-Nutra Health Metabolic Programs

This week, Dr. Kahn dives into new research linking plant-based diets to both a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and improved control in type 1 diabetes. (Fun fact: even eating one juicy mango a day can help with blood sugar control!) He also tackles the recent Consumer Reports headlines about lead in protein powders, explaining why the use of California's Prop 65 limits may have exaggerated the concern compared to what most health experts believe.  Finally, Dr. Kahn reviews new data on Lipoprotein(a) and heart health—including one fascinating study that connects risk levels to waist size.  This episode is brought to you by the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. Get your discount at getfreshdrkahn.com .

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn explores three advanced methods for cleansing the blood. He begins with apheresis, a medical technique that removes LDL cholesterol and Lipoprotein(a), and discusses new developments in access to this life-saving therapy. Dr. Kahn also breaks down two emerging treatments gaining popularity—EBOO (Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation) and TPE (Therapeutic Plasma Exchange)—and how they may play a role in improving cardiovascular health. In the second half, Dr. Kahn turns to the topic of cholesterol-lowering therapies like statins, emphasizing how long-term use and individualized risk assessment matter more than online debates suggest. He highlights tools such as the Mayo Clinic Statin Decision Aid, PREVENT calculator, and Astro-CHARM calculator to help patients and practitioners make informed decisions.  Thanks to the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club for sponsoring this episode. Visit getfreshdrkahn.com for a special offer.

This week, Dr. Kahn dives into the latest research on how healthy plant-based diets can benefit the body from head to almost toe — including lowering dementia risk, improving sexual health, reducing mortality, and supporting the planet. He also breaks down new studies showing the downsides of even one egg a day, the low testing rates of Lipoprotein(a), and why traditional heart risk factors still matter. Plus, hear how maintaining low cholesterol and heart-healthy habits starting at age 18 can dramatically improve long-term outcomes.  A packed episode filled with practical takeaways for your heart and overall health.

Connie Zack, co-founder of Sunlighten Sauna, joins Dr. Kahn to discuss the science and benefits behind infrared sauna and red light therapy. Sunlighten is the leading brand in "full spectrum" infrared saunas, designed to deliver maximum results even at lower temperatures. Connie explains how infrared sauna therapy can improve cardiovascular health and support healthy blood pressure—benefits that are well documented in clinical studies. She also explores the growing field of red light therapy (photobiomodulation), which offers additional wellness advantages and even includes FDA-approved applications.  This episode dives into how combining these two therapies can optimize overall health and recovery. You'll enjoy this insightful and practical conversation.

This week marks the 10th anniversary of the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity—thank you for being part of the journey! Dr. Kahn reviews important new Mayo Clinic data comparing causes of heart attacks in men vs. women under 65. The findings show that non-traditional causes are significantly more common in women. Because the study ended in 2018, neither COVID nor vaccine-related data were included. In addition, Dr. Kahn covers a range of timely health topics: Sucralose (Splenda) and cancer therapy Magnesium for hypertension Eating early vs. late in the day Hydration and survival The ongoing debate over whether meat promotes or protects against cancer deaths (spoiler: it does not) Thanks to Igennus.com—use discount code DrKahn for savings. And don't miss the group PROLON fast beginning October 5, 2025. Order your kit now at prolonlife.com/drkahn.

Dr. Monica Aggarwal, a practicing cardiologist and mother, experienced rheumatoid arthritis but was able to dicontinue using medications through the diet and lifestyle changes as she shares in her book Body on Fire. She later completed a randomized study of plant-based diets—with and without olive oil—showing that both improve outcomes compared to the standard American diet. An advocate for whole foods, she suggests choosing avocados and olives over the oils derived from them, while also recognizing supporting data for extra-virgin olive oil and avocado oil. Check out her book and listen to our conversation on this special bonus episode of Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn.