Menopause changes more than hormones. It reshapes how the whole body works. In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz talks with gynecologist and certified menopause specialist Dr. Polly Watson about the deep links between hormone wellness and cardiovascular health. What really happens to the heart when estrogen levels start to shift? How early do those changes begin, and what can women do to protect themselves long before symptoms appear?   Dr. Druz and Dr. Watson unpack the science behind estrogen dominance and perimenopause through the lens of functional medicine, showing how hormonal fluctuations can influence everything from metabolism to muscle tone to mood. They share what the latest research tells us about hormone replacement therapy and why many long-held fears deserve to be reconsidered.    You’ll hear how small lifestyle changes (better nutrition, strength training, sleep, and toxin reduction) can restore balance and build resilience through midlife and beyond. Above all, this episode celebrates women’s empowerment in medicine and self-care, encouraging every listener to take an active role in understanding their hormones, advocating for informed treatment, and supporting long-term heart health with clarity and confidence.   Get Dr. Watson’s Estrogen Dominance handout by commenting “hormones” on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or TikTok.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Hormone Wellness and the Heart–Body Connection 06:58 How Menopause Impacts Cardiovascular Health 13:31 Understanding Perimenopause and Estrogen Dominance 25:44 Functional Medicine Foundations and Lifestyle Changes 39:39 The Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy 55:15 Women’s Empowerment Through Menopause Awareness   Links Schedule a Discovery Call Access Courses and Events Get Heartwell Toolkits Schedule a Business Meeting   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Visit the Holistic Heart Centers website Follow Holistic Heart Centers on Facebook Follow Holistic Heart Centers on X Subscribe to Dr. Regina on YouTube Follow Dr. Regina on Instagram Follow Dr. Regina on TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Your DNA carries powerful clues about how to protect your heart and extend your life, and modern genetics now makes it possible to turn that knowledge into action.   Dr. Regina Druz sits down with Dr. Sharon Hausman-Cohen, the co-founder of IntellxxDNA, to discuss how breakthroughs in genetics, genomics, and epigenetics are redefining personalized medicine and reshaping the way we think about heart health and longevity. Dr. Hausman-Cohen breaks down the difference between genetics - our inherited traits - and genomics, the complex network of gene interactions that work with lifestyle and environment to influence chronic disease risk. Using examples like hypertension and cardiac inflammation, she points out how understanding these genomic patterns helps clinicians create precise, individualized strategies for prevention and care.   Dr. Druz and Dr. Hausman-Cohen also uncover how epigenetics empowers people to change how their genes behave through nutrition, stress management, and daily habits. They discuss how IntellxxDNA translates this information into evidence-based guidance on diet, supplements, and medications, helping patients and practitioners address the root causes of illness instead of managing symptoms. The episode also goes into the science of longevity, revealing key genes such as CDKN2A, Lp(a), and Klotho that influence aging, inflammation, and cardiovascular strength - and how this knowledge can guide smarter, more personalized health decisions.   Rather than seeing genetic testing as fate, Dr. Druz and Dr. Hausman-Cohen present it as a roadmap for precision health, showing how a deeper understanding of your DNA can help you live longer, stronger, and healthier.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Unlocking the Genetic Blueprint for Heart Health 05:47 Genetics vs Genomics vs Epigenetics Explained 12:33 DNA Testing: Direct-to-Consumer vs Medical Genomics 19:10 Making Genomics Actionable with IntellxxDNA 27:43 Hypertension Genomics and the RAAS Pathway 43:24 Lp(a) Variant and Aspirin Risk Reduction 54:31 Top Five Heart Health Genes to Know 01:01:05 Longevity Genes and Personalized Prevention 01:06:20 Precision Health Takeaways for Heart Health and Longevity   Links Schedule a Discovery Call Access Courses and Events Get Heartwell Toolkits Schedule a Business Meeting   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Visit the Holistic Heart Centers website Follow Holistic Heart Centers on Facebook Follow Holistic Heart Centers on X Subscribe to Dr. Regina on YouTube Follow Dr. Regina on Instagram Follow Dr. Regina on TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Exercise can be medicine for the heart, yet most of us still struggle to fit it into daily life. Dr. Regina Druz sits down with exercise physiologist Dr. Jim Walter to explore how movement shapes cardiovascular health and why small choices matter more than we think. He introduces “move more moments,” simple ways to counter a sedentary lifestyle and build habits that actually last. How much activity is enough to lower risk? Could short bursts of physical activity make the difference that decades of research suggest?   Together, they look at exercise through the lens of physiology and integrative cardiology, connecting everyday actions to measurable outcomes like stronger VO2 max, better blood pressure control, and greater resilience over time. The conversation also points out resistance training, balance, and mobility as essential parts of health preservation, especially as we age. This is a thoughtful, practical take on what it really means to move with your heart in mind.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dr. Jim Walter’s Journey into Exercise Physiology 05:04 Exercise as Medicine for Cardiovascular Health 09:00 Move More Moments to Counter a Sedentary Lifestyle 22:14 Exercise Snacks, VILPA, and Daily Physical Activity 36:26 VO2 Max and the Power of Aerobic Fitness 40:23 Resistance Training, Balance, and Mobility 44:42 The Wide-Ranging Health Benefits of Exercise 48:01 Takeaways on Health Preservation   Links Schedule a Discovery Call Access Courses and Events Get Heartwell Toolkits Schedule a Business Meeting   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Visit the Holistic Heart Centers website Follow Holistic Heart Centers on Facebook Follow Holistic Heart Centers on X Subscribe to Dr. Regina on YouTube Follow Dr. Regina on Instagram Follow Dr. Regina on TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Pocket-sized ECG devices and advances in AI in healthcare are opening new possibilities in cardiology and giving patients practical ways to stay on top of their heart health. What once required bulky machines in hospitals can now be done from home, shifting how care is experienced and how patients connect with their doctors.   In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz talks with Dr. David Albert, cardiologist, inventor, and founder of AliveCor, whose innovations have made at-home heart monitoring a reality for millions of people. He shares how his path through medical technology and entrepreneurship turned an early idea into a global company, and why simplicity and accessibility have always guided his work.   The discussion points out how patient engagement leads to better outcomes, how innovation in ECG devices provides peace of mind, and how AI in healthcare is creating new opportunities for prevention. It’s a forward-looking discussion about where cardiology is headed and how technology and persistence can reshape care.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Episode Focus on Cardiology Innovation 03:20 Origin Story: The Spark Behind At-Home Heart Monitoring 07:05 From Cardiology to Entrepreneurship: Building Real-World Medical Technology 09:22 AliveCor Breakthrough: Pocket ECG Devices From Single-Lead to 12-Lead 12:43 Patient Engagement Drives Outcomes: Smartphones as the Remote Control for Heart Health 19:10 At-Home ECG in Action: Instant Answers for Palpitations and Peace of Mind 21:29 AFib Screening at Scale: Evidence, Hypertension Risks, and Modern Therapies 44:51 Who Should Get a Kardia Device: When to Use Single-Lead, 6-Lead, or 12-Lead 48:07 AI in Healthcare: Predicting Plaque Early - “Prediction Is Prevention”   Links AliveCor   Schedule a Discovery Call Access Courses and Events Get Heartwell Toolkits Schedule a Business Meeting   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Holistic Heart Centers Website YouTube Instagram Facebook X TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

What does it mean to be in a flow state? And why does it matter for both your health and your work? That question frames a wide-ranging conversation between Dr. Regina Druz and Dr. Lara Salyer that goes well beyond theory to ask how we can actually live and practice in ways that support creativity, resilience, and joy.   Dr. Salyer reflects on her own mindset shift from burnout in rural family practice to founding the Catalyst Studio, a space where women clinicians learn to design work that feels alive and aligned with their values. She and Dr. Druz talk about the science of flow and the reality of burnout, showing how one leaves the brain heavy and fogged while the other unlocks focus, energy, and joy. Flow is not random luck. It follows a cycle of struggle, release, immersion, and recovery, and recovery often decides whether the cycle can repeat. Together they ask: How do you notice the signals that flow is breaking down? What simple routines invite it back?   Dr. Salyer shares her AHA method (Anchor, Highlight, Activate) as a way to make choices that protect energy and create space for meaningful work. She and Dr. Druz describe the small shifts that matter most, from taking micro breaks to designing morning or evening rituals that cue the nervous system. They also point to the role of community in sustaining resilience and draw a striking comparison between flow and metabolic flexibility for the mind. By the end, listeners are left with a clear reminder that flow is not a luxury but a foundation for health, longevity, and a career worth loving.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcoming Dr. Lara Salyer 01:43 Burnout and the Journey Into Functional Medicine 04:57 Why Catalyst Studio Was Created for Practitioners 08:36 Burnout vs. Flow in the Brain Explained 10:57 The Four Phases of Flow: Struggle, Release, Flow, Recovery 14:03 Why Recovery Is Essential for Stress Resilience 20:02 The AHA Method to Prevent Burnout and Activate Flow 23:44 Flow Triggers and Flow Disruptors That Shape Performance 28:19 Trust, Community, and the Science of Flow Resilience 35:24 Curating Your Environment with Power Up and Power Down Rituals 48:31 Resources for Learning Flow and Creative Performance   Links 🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM Sign up for The Holistic Heartbeat newsletter Links in bio How to Avoid Statins Mini-course 5 Heart Tests You Must Check Now Chat with Holistic Heart Centers Get Heartwell Toolkit   Connect with Dr. Lara Salyer: Website   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Holistic Heart Centers Website YouTube Instagram Facebook X TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Lipoprotein(a) might be one of the most important pieces of the heart health puzzle that most people have never heard about.   Dr. Regina Druz sits down with cardiologist and lipidology expert Dr. Guy Mintz to discuss why this particle deserves far more attention in cardiology. Lipoprotein(a) is often left out of standard cholesterol tests, yet it is linked to early heart attacks, strokes, valve disease, and aggressive atherosclerosis. If lowering cholesterol only cuts cardiovascular risk in half, what explains the rest? Could Lipoprotein(a) be the missing factor that shapes a person’s long-term health?   The conversation looks closely at the science behind Lipoprotein(a), its genetic roots, and why doctors call it a “genetic tattoo.” You’ll hear why every adult should ask for this test, why family members of those with elevated levels need screening, and how new drugs in development may soon lower Lipoprotein (a) by up to 90%. Until then, heart attack prevention depends on various steps like lifestyle choices, aggressive cholesterol control, and in some cases, apheresis.   This episode encourages a broader view of heart health, one that goes beyond LDL cholesterol to include genetics, inflammation, and personalized care. What would change if you knew your Lipoprotein(a) level? How would that knowledge shape the way you approach prevention?   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Lipoprotein(a) and the Future of Heart Health 04:49 Why Lipoprotein(a) Raises Heart Attack and Stroke Risk 14:13 Genetics of Lipoprotein(a) and Family Screening 27:18 Should Lipoprotein(a) Be in Standard Cholesterol Tests 35:12 New Therapies to Lower Lipoprotein(a) 52:29 Residual Risk and Heart Attack Prevention   Links Schedule a Discovery Call Access Courses and Events Get Heartwell Toolkits Schedule a Business Meeting   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Holistic Heart Centers Website YouTube Instagram Facebook X TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most chronic diseases can’t be reversed until we address what’s happening in the gut, and Dr. Vivian Asamoah is here to explain why your microbiome is the missing link in true healing.   Joining Dr. Regina Druz, Dr. Asamoah shares how her journey from conventional gastroenterology to integrative and functional medicine began with a simple but powerful realization: prescriptions alone don’t solve chronic illness. Patients were tired of “forever medications,” and she was determined to find a better way, one that focuses on root causes, nutrition, and sustainable lifestyle shifts.   Together, they explore the microbiome’s profound influence on the body, connecting gut health to brain function, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. Dr. Asamoah breaks down how dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, can trigger inflammatory patterns that show up as Alzheimer’s, ADHD, irritable bowel syndrome, insulin resistance, and more. They also discuss the challenges of defining a “healthy microbiome,” revealing how factors like diet, environment, and even ancestry shape gut diversity.   One of the most urgent lessons from this conversation is the need to strip away common toxins, starting with alcohol, high-fructose corn syrup, and ultra-processed foods, that silently fuel liver disease and systemic inflammation. Dr. Druz calls out the persistent myth that moderate alcohol consumption is harmless, citing data that proves otherwise. The episode also sheds light on fatty liver disease as a widespread metabolic issue tied to gut health, not just liver function.   Dr. Druz and Dr. Asamoah’s conversation is a wake-up call for anyone ready to simplify their health journey, with actionable insights on how foundational habits, paired with mindful testing when needed, can shift the trajectory of chronic disease and restore true wellness.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcoming Dr. Vivian Asamoah 01:38 Dr. Asamoah’s Journey to Integrative Gastroenterology 04:06 Moving Beyond Prescriptions: The Shift to Functional Medicine 07:00 The Microbiome and Metabolic Liver Disease Explained 11:03 How Gut Health Drives Chronic Diseases Like Alzheimer’s and Heart Disease 19:02 What Stool Testing Reveals About Your Microbiome 26:27 Gut Microbiome, Hypertension, and American Heart Association Findings 32:57 Understanding Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) 36:01 The Gut-Liver Axis: A Critical Connection for Health 44:21 Advanced Liver Testing: Fibroscan and Elastography 47:39 Foundational Health Tips   Links 🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook Sign up for The Holistic Heartbeat newsletter: https://tr.ee/holisticheartbeat Links in bio: https://linktr.ee/drreginadruz How to Avoid Statins Mini-course: https://tr.ee/statins 5 Heart Tests You Must Check Now: https://tr.ee/hearttests Chat with Holistic Heart Centers: https://tr.ee/chatwithus Get Heartwell Toolkit: https://tr.ee/WPb9U1   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Holistic Heart Centers Website YouTube Instagram Facebook X TikTok Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Your dentist might be the first person to spot early signs of heart disease, and it might show up long before your cardiologist sees anything on a scan.   In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz sits down with her colleague, dentist Dr. Maria Sokolina, to talk about the oral systemic connection and why oral health should never be treated as separate from the rest of the body. They unpack how gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontal disease (often caused by bacteria like Bacteroides gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum) can quietly fuel inflammation that affects cardiovascular health, brain function, and even longevity. What might your gums be telling you about your risk for stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, or atrial fibrillation? Could that headache, dry mouth, or grinding habit be pointing toward sleep apnea or an airway issue?   Dr. Sokolina explains how signs like mouth breathing, snoring, bony growths, and tongue position often reflect bigger concerns like high blood pressure, cortisol imbalances, or gut dysfunction. She shares how tools like myofunctional therapy, oral appliances, and simple techniques, like her water test, can help uncover breathing patterns that impact heart health and nervous system regulation. She also touches on the role of saliva tests, acid reflux, LPR, GERD, and the early oral indicators of diseases like oral cancer.   This episode offers a different lens on dentistry, one that sees the mouth as a vital piece of the whole health puzzle. Dr. Druz and Dr. Sokolina also reflect on women’s health, hormone shifts in menopause, and the importance of understanding how inflammation, the vagus nerve, and the parasympathetic nervous system all fit together. Could your next dental exam reveal more than just cavities? Are the symptoms showing up in your mouth actually pointing to deeper issues with your heart, your brain, or your gut? And how might things shift if your dentist and doctor were working as a team? Dr. Druz and Dr. Sokolina’s discussion invites you to look closer and think differently about where health really begins.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Maria Sokolina 03:12 Gum Disease as a Marker for Heart Risk 08:40 Oral Bacteria and Systemic Disease 13:24 Sleep Apnea Clues Dentists Can Catch 20:45 Mouth Breathing, Nasal Dysfunction, and Heart Health 28:56 The Three-Minute Water Test for Nasal Breathing 38:15 Amyloid Plaque and the Mouth-Brain Connection 46:02 Treating Root Causes with Oral Appliances and Therapy 54:10 The Overlooked Connection Between Oral Health and Hormones   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Maria Sokolina: Myofunctional therapy and Sleep Quality Self-Assessment and Video Guide: https://drmariasokolina.com/myofunctional-therapy-and-sleep-quality-self-assessment/ Forbes articles: https://drmariasokolina.com/articles/   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Chronic symptoms don’t always need complex solutions, and your wellness journey doesn’t have to start with prescriptions. Dr. Myrto Ashe joins Dr. Regina Druz to talk about how simple, cost-negative health interventions can spark powerful change. A leader in functional medicine and author of The Simple Science of Wellness, Dr. Ashe shares her personal health journey—from managing asthma and joint pain to helping her child through chronic illness—by turning to holistic health practices like intermittent fasting, a gluten-free diet, and stress relief tools grounded in science. In this conversation, she breaks down easy health tips anyone can try, including the fasting mimicking diet (inspired by Dr. Valter Longo), journaling for brain health and emotional regulation, and the tapping solution, also known as emotional freedom technique, for anxiety and cortisol management. Together, she and Dr. Druz explore how lifestyle changes improve mind-body health, boost the immune system, and support everything from blood pressure to gut health and even autoimmune conditions. They also touch on lesser-known but high-impact strategies, like improving indoor air quality with an air filter to support heart health and cognitive function, and why preventative health doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. If you’re looking for natural healing, health transformation, or practical health hacks that fit real life, this interview is packed with wellness strategies that go beyond medicine and deliver lasting vitality. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dr. Myrto Ash’s Shift to Functional Medicine 04:26 Personal Health Transformation Through Diet 09:17 Patient Success Stories in Functional Care 16:17 The Simple Science of Wellness Framework 18:54 Fasting Mimicking and Intermittent Fasting 33:48 Journaling for Stress and Brain Health 38:56 Tapping for Anxiety and Emotional Balance 48:25 Air Filters, Microplastics, and Heart Health   Links Connect with Dr. Myrto Ashe:Dr. Myrto Ashe's Book, "The Simple Science of Wellness": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-simple-science-of-wellness-myrto-ashe/1146753541?ean=2940184347103 Simple Wellness newsletter: https://simple-science.beehiiv.com/ The Tapping Solution App: https://www.thetappingsolution.com/blog/tapping-solution-app/ James Pennebaker's Journaling Research: https://www.scribd.com/document/777792416/James-W-Pennebaker-Writing-to-Heal-a-Guided-Journal-for-Recovering-From-Trauma-Emotional-Upheaval-New-Harbinger-Publications-Incorporated-2004   Connect with Holistic Heart Centers: Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters   Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Your heart can show signs of distress without a single symptom, and sometimes, the trigger isn’t physical at all.   Dr. Alan Rozanski, a pioneer in nuclear cardiology and now a thought leader in integrative care, joins Dr. Regina Druz to explore how emotional and behavioral patterns can directly influence heart health and vitality. He shares the turning point that led him from high-tech imaging to psychosomatic medicine: watching a patient’s heart function visibly deteriorate, not during exercise, but while talking about stress.   That moment launched decades of research into how chronic stress, depression, and social isolation affect physical health, and why mindset matters just as much as metrics. Dr. Rozanski also introduces his six domains of optimal health: physical health, mental vitality, emotional mastery, social connectivity, stress management, and purposeful living. He explains how even the smallest shifts in any one of them can reignite energy and drive meaningful improvement across the board.   From gratitude to optimism to redefining what it means to feel truly well, Dr. Druz and Dr. Rozanski’s conversation challenges the traditional boundaries of cardiology and invites a more connected, human approach to heart health.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Heart Health and Integrative Cardiology 01:28 How Dr. Alan Rozanski Shifted from Imaging to Mind-Body Cardiology 11:35 Can Chronic Stress Disrupt Heart Function? 18:22 Depression, Inflammation, and Heart Disease 22:20 How Optimism and Gratitude Improve Cardiac Health 36:39 The Six Domains of Optimal Health Explained 49:34 Why Movement Is the Best First Step Toward Vitality   Links Connect with Dr. Alan Rozanski: Website: https://alanrozanski.com/six-domains-of-health/ Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most doctors focus on LDL. But your lipidome holds the real clues to your cardiovascular risk. In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz introduces a tool she uses with patients called “cholesterol marbles,” a hands-on way to see cholesterol not as good vs. bad, but as a complex network of particles with very different roles.    What does it mean if your LDL is high? What’s the role of VLDL or small dense LDL? And why do some people with “great” HDL numbers still end up at risk? Dr. Druz breaks down how these lipoproteins behave, how they form, and how they quietly drive cardiovascular risk. She explains the “40-30-20-10 rule” to help make sense of why LDL still matters, while also showing why markers like ApoB and non-HDL cholesterol may be even more useful. You’ll also hear why high HDL isn’t always protective, why small dense LDL is particularly dangerous, and how metabolic dysfunction, often tied to diet and insulin resistance, can shift your lipid profile in the wrong direction.   Whether you’re managing high cholesterol or simply trying to understand your lab results, Dr. Druz will change the way you think about cholesterol labs, and what you should really be asking for in your bloodwork.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 What are Cholesterol Marbles? 01:28 The Lipidome and Why It Matters 07:04 How VLDL Becomes LDL  09:02 The “40-30-20-10 Rule” for Lowering Heart Risk 17:02 Small Dense LDL Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk 26:00 HDL Cholesterol Functionality 29:04 Genetic Profiles and Lipid Pathways 33:03 Heart Disease as a Fundamental Process of Aging 35:35 Guidelines for Lipid Management   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Laughter and heart health might seem like an unlikely pairing until you hear the science behind it.   Dr. Regina Druz is joined by Dr. Sam Shay, a functional medicine doctor who also happens to be a stand-up comic. Together, they explore how humor therapy works on a biological level, from lowering stress hormones to improving blood flow. Could laughter help prevent heart disease? And what role does humor play in building trust between patients and practitioners?   Dr. Shay shares how comedy became part of his clinical practice after growing up in a family shaped by cardiovascular illness. He explains why humor rooted in truth can disarm fear, build connection, and shift a patient’s mindset, which are all crucial elements when it comes to healing.   This episode invites a different perspective on heart health, one where humor isn’t a distraction but a meaningful tool for connection, resilience, and recovery.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Heart Health and Humor 01:05 Personal Story and Family Heart Disease 04:05 Science Behind Laughter Therapy 08:57 How Humor Supports Cardiovascular Health 19:31 Practical Ways to Use Humor for Health 21:13 Humor in Clinical Practice 30:01 The Neural Harmony Model 38:00 Humor as a Tool for Truth and Connection   Links Connect with Sam Shay: Neurospicy Stand-Up Comedy Special https://youtu.be/auxjQWEGFCQ?si=rDl8KbDiqTRMLu7F   Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting: https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people scan their cholesterol panel and zero in on the LDL. But could there be a better indicator of risk hiding in plain sight?   In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz walks through the standard lipid panel (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides) and explains why the context behind the numbers matters more than the numbers alone. She breaks down what each marker can and can’t tell you, why fasting makes a difference, and how calculated values like LDL can be misleading if the test wasn’t done correctly.   Dr. Druz also challenges the outdated idea of “good” and “bad” cholesterol and introduces a smarter way to think about risk: by focusing on the full picture, including ApoB and a simple ratio anyone can calculate with basic labs. That ratio? Triglycerides divided by HDL. It’s one of the clearest signals of insulin resistance, and one of the most overlooked.   Using a real patient example, Dr. Druz shows how to interpret results in context and why statins may not always be the answer. Could your elevated cholesterol actually be a sign of metabolic dysfunction? And if so, what would it take to reverse it?   As part two of the Statin Overprescribing Solution series, this episode offers a practical way to rethink your lipid profile, and a clear path toward better heart health!   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Understanding the Lipid Profile 04:08 Cholesterol: Good, Bad, and Ugly 09:39 Importance of Fasting for Lipid Profile 14:05 Non-HDL Cholesterol and ApoB 21:21 Risk Categories: Low, Moderate, High, Very High, Extreme 32:00 Example Patient Case Study 40:09 Triglyceride to HDL Cholesterol Ratio 43:01 Insulin Resistance Indicator 46:03 Cardiometabolic Intervention   Links ASCVD Risk Estimator: https://tools.acc.org/ascvd-risk-estimator-plus/#!/calculate/estimate/ Reynolds Risk Score: https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/3932/reynolds-risk-score-cardiovascular-risk-women   Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holisticheartcenters  Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

When it comes to your kidneys, most people are told “nothing’s wrong” until it’s almost too late.   In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz sits down with Dr. Robin Rose to expose the gaps in traditional renal care and offer a proactive path to kidney success. Dr. Rose shares her personal story of facing kidney cancer, a dangerously low eGFR, and the lack of real solutions from conventional medicine. Instead of accepting a future of kidney failure, she built a new approach: Renology, the art and science of kidney success.   They break down why early monitoring of your eGFR matters, how kidney function connects to heart and vascular health, and why plant-based nutrition, toxin reduction, and stress management should be front-line therapies. Dr. Rose also introduces the emerging role of peptides and bioregulators in supporting kidney repair, after foundational lifestyle work is done.   If you’ve ever skimmed past your kidney labs without a second thought, this conversation will change how you look at your health. Protecting your renal function isn’t just about avoiding dialysis; it’s about optimizing vitality across your whole body, starting now.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Dr. Robin Rose and the Story Behind Renology 01:10 How Kidney Health Declines Without Warning 07:14 What eGFR Means for Kidney and Heart Health 15:20 Early Signs of Renal Trouble Doctors Miss 20:52 Rethinking Kidney Failure and Defining Success 25:11 How Peptides and Bioregulators Support Healing 30:24 Plant-Based Eating and Kidney Protection 39:39 The Overlooked Role of Acidosis and Toxins 45:11 Building a Personalized Kidney Health Plan 48:38 Why Early Intervention Changes Outcomes 49:26 How to Access the Renology Peptides Book   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Robin Rose: renologyiskidneysuccess.com   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters  Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people measure aging by wrinkles or energy levels but your arteries tell the real story.   Dr. Regina Druz kicks off a new series with the launch of the Statin Overprescribing Solution (SOS), a program designed to challenge the one-size-fits-all approach to LDL cholesterol. We’ve all heard that LDL is “the bad cholesterol,” but what does a high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level really mean? And is the goal always to lower LDL, no matter the cost?   In this episode, Dr. Druz invites listeners to reconsider long-held beliefs. She explains why measuring LDL cholesterol might not be enough information and how personalized testing can tell a much more complete story. Have you ever asked your doctor what causes high LDL cholesterol in your specific case, or whether saturated fat truly raises LDL cholesterol for you? This kind of nuance is missing from most traditional care.   Dr. Druz shares how tools like the LDL cholesterol goal level calculator and the HeartWell Toolkit can give you real insight into your individual risk. She also introduces the idea of age proofing, a way to assess and slow the aging of your arteries, rather than just tracking numbers on a chart.   Whether you’re trying to decide if statins are right for you, looking to better understand your lipid profile, or searching “LDL cholesterol Spanish” for resources in your language, this episode delivers practical, science-backed answers. It’s a must-listen for anyone ready to move past generic advice and into a plan that truly fits.   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introducing the Statin Overprescribing Solution (SOS) 02:12 What Is Age Proofing? 04:58 Cardiovascular Aging and Atherosclerosis 08:04 A Holistic Approach to Heart Health 16:59 Rethinking the Cholesterol-Centric Model 20:25 Precision and Personalization in Cardiology 25:52 Why Early Intervention Matters 27:27 Digital Biomarkers and Patient Monitoring 34:23 How to Estimate Your Cardiovascular Risk 39:05 Age Proofing Strategy in Action 46:52 HeartWell Toolkit: At-Home Testing for Lipid Profiles 49:54 Understanding Biological Age and Healthspan 52:00 AI-Powered Podcast Navigation with Notebook LM   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most women have been misled about hormone therapy. This episode sets the record straight on what’s true, what’s outdated, and what your hot flashes are really telling you.   Dr. Regina Druz is joined by hormone expert Dr. Lorraine Maita for a conversation that challenges long-held beliefs about hormones, bioidentical hormones, and the risks often associated with them. Together, they revisit the Women’s Health Initiative study and explain why its conclusions may no longer apply to today’s treatments or today’s patients.   What do hot flashes reveal about your heart? Are hormones and breast cancer always linked? And why does the timing and type of hormone therapy matter more than most people realize?   If you’re questioning what you’ve heard about hormones and the heart, or whether bioidentical hormones are actually safe, this episode brings clarity, context, and a smarter way to think about hormone health.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:30 Dr. Maita’s Path to Hormone Expertise 04:00 How Hormonal Therapy Became Part of Her Practice 07:40 The Women’s Health Initiative and Its Lasting Impact 13:40 Why Timing Matters in Hormonal Therapy 20:00 Common Myths About Hormones 21:00 Hormones and Breast Cancer 27:40 Hot Flashes and Heart Health 32:55 Rethinking Menopause 35:00 How to Assess and Personalize Hormone Therapy 43:00 Detoxification and Hormone Metabolism 46:45 Hormone Testing and Metabolites   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Lorraine Maita:  Course: Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Right for You? https://www.hrtforyou.com/hrt59937778 Courses and Coaching The Feel Good Again Institute https://thefeelgoodagaininstitute.com/ Medical Practice (NY, NJ,PA,FL) Vibrance for Life https://vibranceforlife.com/   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters   Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Your genetics might be the key to lasting weight loss. Dr. Phyllis Pobee knows firsthand how frustrating it can be to do everything “right” and still struggle with weight. In this episode, Dr. Pobee joins Dr. Regina Druz to discuss how genetics for weight loss plays a bigger role than most people realize. Could your genes for weight loss be working against you? And if so, what can you do about it?   From nutritional genetics to hormones like cortisol and estrogen, Dr. Pobee breaks down why weight gain—especially for women over 30—isn’t just about diet and exercise. She shares how understanding your genetic profile can help you make smarter choices about food, exercise, and stress management. They also dig into the rise of weight loss medications like Ozempic and whether they truly solve the problem or just mask deeper imbalances.   This episode challenges the idea that weight loss is simply about willpower. If you’ve ever felt stuck, Dr. Druz and Dr. Pobee’s conversation might be exactly what you need to move forward with a strategy that actually works for your body.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  03:57 Hormonal Interplay in Weight Management 05:11 Estrogen and Heart Disease in Women 07:07 Genetic Variations and Hormonal Imbalances 08:41 Cortisol and Stress Management 10:21 Circadian Rhythm and Eating Habits 12:15 Measuring Cortisol Levels 17:54 Effective Stress Management Techniques 20:47 Testing Cortisol Levels 26:00 Hormonal Changes in Perimenopause and Menopause 30:56 Estrogen Dominance and Genetic Influence 34:00 Caution with Hormone Replacement Therapy 37:18 Key Genetic Variations Women Should Know 42:19 Overstressing and Its Impact on Weight Loss 45:25 Integrative Approach to Weight Loss 49:37 Polygenic Risk Scores in Clinical Applications   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the U.S. for over a century, but could changing the way we eat make a real difference? Dr. Kim Williams thinks so.   In this episode, Dr. Regina Druz sits down with Dr. Williams from the University of Louisville to break down what to eat for heart health. They talk about the science behind the vegan diet, Mediterranean diet, and DASH diet, weighing the benefits of each. Dr. Williams makes a strong case for a whole food plant-based approach, pointing to research that links it to lower rates of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Dr. Druz, while not vegan herself, highlights the importance of personalized nutrition and the need to tailor dietary choices to individual health goals.   The conversation goes beyond food, touching on healthcare disparities, access to healthy options, and the role of AI in patient care. Dr. Williams shares how he’s using AI tools like ChatGPT to create personalized meal plans, making it easier for patients to follow heart-healthy diets without feeling overwhelmed. They also dig into community-driven solutions, from teaching kitchens to partnerships with local businesses, aimed at increasing access to fresh, affordable produce.   If you’re wondering whether your diet really impacts your heart or questioning how to make healthier choices that actually stick, this episode is packed with helpful insights you can use.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  01:00 The State of Heart Disease in America 03:55 Health Equity Initiatives at University of Louisville 05:04 Challenges in Inner City Health 07:02 Patient Stories and Health Disparities 10:03 Lifestyle Medicine and Prevention 12:32 Nutritional Advice for Heart Health 14:02 The Role of Time, Team, and Tools in Patient Care 16:20 Whole Food Plant-Based Diet and Heart Health 18:36 The Impact of Unhealthy Plant-Based Foods 20:15 Using AI for Personalized Nutrition Plans 27:09 AI in Medical Practice and Patient Education 30:01 Comparing Popular Heart-Healthy Diets 32:35 Misinterpretations of the Mediterranean Diet Study 35:07 Dr. Williams’ Personal Nutritional Journey 38:05 The Impact of Plant-Based Diet on Cholesterol 41:03 Statins and Plant-Based Diets in Practice 43:08 Patient Adoption of Whole Food Plant-Based Diets 45:03 Teaching Kitchens and Community Health Programs 48:43 Partnerships with Local Businesses for Healthy Eating   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Blood pressure readings can be misleading—are you really hypertensive, or is it just a case of white coat syndrome? Dr. Regina Druz sits down with Dr. Ellie Campbell, a primary care functional medicine doctor, to unpack the complexities of blood pressure, its role in cardiovascular risk, and why a single reading in a doctor’s office might not tell the whole story.   Dr. Campbell shares how a patient’s unexpected stroke reshaped her understanding of blood pressure management, leading her to investigate overlooked factors like inflammation and metabolic health. The conversation also covers why home blood pressure monitoring often provides a clearer picture than in-office readings, and how standard measurement mistakes can lead to unnecessary prescriptions.   For those questioning whether their numbers reflect reality, this episode offers a guide to tracking blood pressure correctly, recognizing the impact of lifestyle choices, and taking control of heart health before problems arise.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00  Introduction 01:03 The Importance of Cardiovascular Health 02:14 Dr. Ellie Kimball's Book on Hypertension 04:14 The Story of Dee and the Impact of Hypertension 08:45 The Connection Between Dental Health and Cardiovascular Events 10:55 The Silent Killer: Hypertension 14:07 Prevalence of Elevated Blood Pressure 17:45 Theories Behind Rising Hypertension Rates 19:40 The Role of Chronic Stress and Cortisol 24:50 Proper Blood Pressure Measurement Techniques 30:00 The Importance of Accurate Blood Pressure Readings 33:11 Understanding Blood Pressure Guidelines 39:49 Understanding White Coat Effect and Masked Hypertension 41:05 Home Blood Pressure Monitoring vs. 24-Hour Ambulatory Monitoring 44:40 Standardizing Home Blood Pressure Readings   Links Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Is your calcium score telling the full story of your heart health? Dr. Regina Druz unpacks what a coronary artery calcium score really means, how it relates to vascular age, and why even a seemingly low score can signal long-term risks.     Starting with a quick story of three men on a golf course comparing their calcium scores, Dr. Druz illustrates how numbers like 75, 220, or 3000 can mean very different things depending on age and overall health. Using insights from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, she explains how to assess whether your arteries are aging faster than you, and what that means for your heart.     The episode also tackles the role of cholesterol and the impact of statins in slowing, but not reversing, atherosclerosis. Dr. Druz points out a comprehensive approach to heart health, combining lifestyle changes, medication when necessary, and tools like the MESA calculator to track risk over time.     Dr. Druz encourages listeners to take control of their heart health, advocate for themselves, and use available resources to make informed decisions. Are you wondering, “How high is my calcium score, and what does it mean for me?” This episode has the answers.   Quotes “For you to own your heart health, you have to advocate for yourself and use some of the tools that were initially meant to be practitioner focused, but use it for yourself.” (05:18 | Dr. Regina Druz)  “What is the coronary age? It’s simply an age at which an average healthy individual has the same calcium score that a person of interest has.” (12:56 | Dr. Regina Druz)  “Accelerated atherosclerosis is essentially the aging of the arteries. Are your arteries aging faster than you? And for many patients, this actually is the case.” (26:22 | Dr. Regina Druz)  “Once a person has plaques in their arteries, whether it's coronary arteries or carotid arteries, we can certainly help them to slow down the progression and cause a regression, but we can’t completely reverse them.” (30:47 | Dr. Regina Druz)   Links MESA Coronary Age Calculator: https://internal.mesa-nhlbi.org/about/procedures/tools/mesa-score-risk-calculator Holistic Heart University Guest Access: https://holisticheartcenters.info/visit   Schedule a Discovery Call: https://go.holisticheartcenters.com/apply Access Courses and Events: https://holisticheartcenters.info/hearthealth Get Heartwell Toolkits: https://shop.holisticheartcenters.com/ Schedule a Business Meeting:https://calendly.com/heartcenters  🎉 NEW! Interact with Own Your Heart Health Podcast — on NotebookLM: https://holisticheartcenters.info/notebook   Connect with Dr. Regina Druz: Website: http://holisticheartcenters.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@reginadruzmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.reginadruz  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticheartcenters  Twitter: https://x.com/heartCenters Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm