Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn

This week, Dr. Kahn discussed a case study involving a 30-year-old man with newly discovered, very high cholesterol. The implications of heart disease in young adults—backed by a recent paper from the CARDIA study group—suggest that early intervention, beginning with lifestyle changes, should be offered, along with follow-up lab testing. The Portfolio Diet plan would be a strong starting point on the journey toward a more plant-based diet. Other topics covered include the risks of diet soda, the health impacts of being a night owl, coffee consumption for atrial fibrillation patients, the role of genetics in longevity, plant-based diets for kidney health, and red light therapy for brain illness and trauma.  Thanks to getfreshDRKAHN.com for the $1 offer on a bottle of fresh-pressed olive oil from some of the finest estates. EXTENDED SHOWNOTES:  Dr. Kahn also touched on several additional topics during the episode. He discussed olive oil tasting and shipping, encouraging listeners to sign up before the current shipment from Italy ends and explaining how tasting fresh olive oil helps assess quality. Red light therapy came up in the context of brain injury, including a study showing potential benefits from nasal exposure in college athletes with repeated head trauma. He also mentioned advocacy efforts to promote routine coronary calcium scoring starting at age 45. Several studies on diet and longevity were reviewed, including research showing that plant-forward diets are associated with better kidney health and that genetics may account for up to 50% of longevity—though lifestyle choices still matter greatly. Dr. Kahn also covered caffeine and heart rhythm, noting research where coffee consumption was linked to fewer episodes of atrial fibrillation, while diet soda was associated with a higher risk of dementia. Finally, he discussed sleep patterns, citing data suggesting that night owls face higher cardiovascular risks than early risers.

In this bonus episode, Dr. Kahn sits down with his longtime friend TJ Robinson, founder of the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club and self-described "olive oil hunter." TJ has made it his life's mission to track down the freshest, highest-quality extra virgin olive oils in the world — often straight from small producers in Europe and South America — and get them shipped to the U.S. as quickly as possible. The conversation dives into what most people don't realize about olive oil: how freshness impacts flavor, health benefits, and antioxidant levels, and why the oil sitting on a grocery store shelf may not be doing your heart any favors. TJ explains how he sources each harvest, what separates truly exceptional olive oil from the rest, and why timing is everything when it comes to preserving polyphenols and taste. Dr. Kahn and TJ also discuss why extra virgin olive oil remains one of the healthiest dietary staples available, especially for cardiovascular health, and how consumers can avoid misleading labels and outdated products.  Listeners can sample the latest Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club release for just $1 shipping by visiting getfreshDRKAHN.com .  If you prefer to watch the conversation, the full video interview is available on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=AZP64Au_j5M

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses a new report from the American Heart Association on the causes of heart-related deaths in the U.S., and the sobering reality that cardiovascular disease remains the nation's leading cause of death. Despite this, prevention and early detection continue to be underemphasized at the national level—meaning much of the responsibility still falls on individuals. Dr. Kahn also covers several shorter topics, including a response to the CSPI food pyramid, water quality on airplanes, Apple Watch detection of atrial fibrillation, why earlier meal timing is better, the vascular benefits of extra-virgin olive oil, and the cholesterol-lowering power of oats. Thanks to the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club, you can sample a bottle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for just $1 at getfreshDRKAHN.com. Registration is now open for Dr. Kahn's lecture on January 29, 2026 at 7:00 PM EST. Sign up HERE.

This week, Dr. Kahn dives into four new research papers on omega-3 fatty acids and their impact on heart and brain health. The discussion highlights several eye-opening findings, including reduced atrial fibrillation risk and improved cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Dr. Kahn also explains how omega-3 intake supports brain health and why the "right" dose depends on the specific condition being addressed. Food sources, fish oil, algae-based supplements, and ahiflower are compared as practical ways to reach optimal omega-3 levels.  Additional topics in this episode include newly approved AI software for early detection of heart disease, the role of statins in patients with type 2 diabetes, the science—and hype—around NAD+ boosters, and emerging data on Prolon fasting for Crohn's disease. Dr. Kahn also reviews concerning research on heart rhythm risks associated with high-intensity endurance exercise in athletes over the age of 50. As always, the episode blends cutting-edge research with real-world clinical insight to help clarify what actually matters for long-term heart health. Thanks to The Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club — get a bottle for $1 at getfreshDRKAHN.com.  More About This Episode This episode takes a deeper look at why omega-3 blood levels matter more than simply taking a supplement. Dr. Kahn reviews large population studies linking higher omega-3 levels to lower risks of atrial fibrillation, early-onset dementia, and major cardiovascular events, including in high-risk groups such as patients on hemodialysis. The key takeaway: testing omega-3 status and personalizing intake may be far more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach.  Beyond omega-3s, Dr. Kahn explores several timely and surprising topics, including AI-enhanced CT scan technology designed to detect silent heart disease without additional radiation, real-world data on statin benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes, and why costly NAD+ supplements may ultimately function as a form of vitamin B3. The episode also examines new evidence on fasting-mimicking diets for Crohn's disease and potential heart rhythm risks in high-level endurance athletes over 50. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Kahn emphasizes practical, evidence-based steps patients can review with their physicians, including omega-3 blood testing, coronary calcium scoring, and tailoring lifestyle and supplement strategies to individual risk factors.

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down the newly released USDA 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines and the surprising upside-down food pyramid they present. He explains how the final report differs from last year's Advisory Committee recommendations, including changes in committee membership and the influence of advisors with financial ties to the meat and dairy industries. Looking back at the original 1980 dietary guidelines, Dr. Kahn asks an important question: how much has really changed? His takeaway remains refreshingly simple—eat food, mostly plants, not too much. Short topics this week include urinary measurements of protein intake, optimal timing for surgery in dilated aortic roots, the cardiovascular risk of lipoprotein(a), and whether the science behind the Blue Zones truly holds up. You can order a bottle of olive oil for just $1 at getfreshDRKAHN.com. To join the next group ProLon fast, order your kit as soon as possible at prolonlife.com/DRKAHN. If you want it a touch shorter or more punchy for Apple Podcasts specifically, I can trim it another 10–15%.

Dr. Kahn kicks off 2026 by reviewing recent media reports on aspirin use and dosing for the prevention of cardiovascular events in the President of the United States. Much of the coverage overlooks an important factor: the relationship between aspirin dose and body weight. Dr. Kahn examines data from multiple studies suggesting that, in some cases, only higher-dose aspirin was effective in preventing cardiovascular events. As always, listeners are encouraged to discuss aspirin use and dosing with their own medical team. Additional topics this week include the health impact of carryout meals, kidney function and cystatin C, statin use in patients with diabetes, the risks associated with tramadol, cold drink–induced atrial fibrillation, and recent health reports involving Chevy Chase and Jelly Roll. Dr. Kahn also invites listeners to join an upcoming group 5-day PROLON Fasting Mimicking Diet, supported by dietitians and health educators. Order your PROLON kit now at prolonlife.com/drkahn to be ready to participate.

Tim Kaufman's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—an inherited condition affecting collagen that impacts the heart, joints, and tendons—Tim found himself in a dark place by 2011, struggling with food, alcohol, and painkiller addiction, compounded by morbid obesity. His inspiring recovery through a plant-based diet led him to complete the Lake Placid Ironman in 2024 while sustaining an incredible 200 lb weight loss. Tim shares his transformative story in his book Escape. Learn more about his journey at fatmanrants.com.

This week, Dr. Kahn shares his curated list of the top advances in heart research from 2025. He highlights key insights and perspectives from Drs. Kim Williams and Noel Merz, along with important updates from the American Heart Association. Dr. Kahn also reviews a newly published research paper on the 5-day Fasting Mimicking Diet (PROLON), including the first human evidence showing activation of autophagy. Learn what this could mean for metabolic and cardiovascular health. PROLON is available at prolonlife.com/drkahn. Thanks to tokuhealth.com/KAHN20 and their nattokinase product, Flow, for supporting the show.  Wishing everyone a healthy and happy holiday season and all the best in 2026.

This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn takes a fresh look at niacin (vitamin B3) therapy and its role in managing cholesterol and Lipoprotein(a). He reviews both classic and recent research, explains why many clinicians have moved away from niacin, and then walks through data that suggest it may still have value when used thoughtfully and selectively. Dr. Kahn also shares a real-world case study highlighting how niacin can be effective when carefully monitored. In the episode's shorter segments, Dr. Kahn covers a wide range of timely topics, including the relationship between orange juice and heart disease, the link between uterine fibroids and cardiovascular risk, and why achieving remission from pre-diabetes matters more than ever. He also explores research on polyphenol-rich Tartary buckwheat and its potential connection to slower aging, as well as new findings on statin use and muscle strength.  As always, the episode blends evidence-based medicine with practical insights you can apply to your own heart-health journey.  Sponsor:  Thanks to koyah.com/KAHN10 — check out their excellent product line and save with the code KAHN10.

This week, Dr. Joel Kahn dives into a timely topic: how cold weather affects heart health. He breaks down why snow shoveling can put extra stress on the heart, what warning signs to watch for, and the simple steps anyone can take to stay safe — especially when the risks can include sudden cardiac events. He also covers a grab-bag of fascinating updates, including new insights on Lipoprotein(a) and blood type, how kimchi may support immune health, what plant-based diets mean for muscle, the link between beer bellies and heart disease, and a look at President Trump's recent heart check-up.  Special thanks to therasage.com — use code DRKAHN20 for discounts on products like the TheraPro Pad, one of Dr. Kahn's go-to wellness tools.

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down new research on erectile dysfunction (ED) as an early warning sign—a "canary in the coal mine"—for heart disease and cardiovascular events, including mortality. He also discusses the emerging role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and highlights new findings suggesting that ED medications like Viagra and Cialis may reduce all-cause mortality and potentially lower the risk of dementia. Additional topics include the connection between sleep apnea and Parkinson's disease, how skipping breakfast may raise cholesterol levels, the impact of high-polyphenol diets on resting heart rate, tai chi for improving sleep, alternate-day fasting, updates on the Watchman device, and new approaches to treating carotid artery disease. This week, Dr. Kahn also highlights the Echo Flask—an elegant way to make hydrogen-rich water. You can order one at echowater.com for a discount.

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving week. In this episode, Dr. Kahn breaks down the latest science on eating for longevity and overall health. He covers everything from high-protein versus plant-based diets to antioxidants, high-fat diets and Alzheimer's risk, red meat and inflammation, and how vegan diets support a lower carbon footprint. Short topics this week include new data on smoking and mortality, the link between gum disease and erectile dysfunction, and emerging research on microplastics and their potential role in atherosclerosis.  Dr. Kahn also shares insights from three recent patients at the Kahn Center.  Thank you to tryauri.com/DRKAHN for supporting the show with their high-quality mushroom gummies and elixirs.

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.