The Simple Path To Health

Episode 13. Atherosclerosis in Young Adults: What to Do After a Positive Coronary Calcium Scan

In today’s episode, we address a question many people face: “I’m in my 30s or 40s, I feel healthy, but my scan shows coronary calcium or early atherosclerosis, what does this mean, and what should I do next?” We’ll walk through what a comprehensive medical evaluation looks like, which hidden risk factors may be at play, how to uncover them, and most importantly, how to slow or stabilize disease progression and, in some cases, even reverse it. My goal is for you to leave feeling informed and empowered. And while this conversation is primarily directed toward younger individuals, the content discussed today is relevant to individuals of all ages.Blog Post and References:https://kevinforeymd.com/ascvd/

Episode 12. The Toxic Food Hypothesis: Rethinking Chronic Disease, Nutrition, and Calorie Balance

In today’s episode we will be challenging the long-standing “eat less, exercise more” narrative by introducing The Toxic Food Hypothesis, a framework that shifts the focus from calorie counting and body weight to food quality and metabolic health. Inspired by Derek Thompson’s Plain English episode, “A Grand Unified Theory of Why Americans Are So Unhealthy,” we’ll explore how a food system dominated by highly processed products may be the true driver of chronic disease, affecting not only those with excess weight but also millions of lean individuals. We’ll examine why calorie-centric approaches fall short, the evidence behind improving diet quality without cutting calories, and why rethinking public health messaging may be the key to reversing America’s health crisis.Blog Post and References:https://kevinforeymd.com/toxic-food-hypothesis

Episode 11. Do Statins Influence The Risk of Dementia?

In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing one of the most frequently discussed, and often debated, topics in preventive medicine, do statins influence the risk of dementia? You’ve probably heard some express concern that statins can cause memory loss or increase the risk of dementia, whereas others may emphasize the ability of statins to protect brain health. So what does the science really say? In this episode, we’ll explore the role of cholesterol in normal brain health, theoretical mechanisms explaining how statin therapy may cause harm as well as potential neurologic protection. We will then transition to review high quality evidence from randomized clinical trial, mendelian randomization, and even studies investigating those with genetic abnormalities resulting is exceedingly low levels of LDL throughout their lifetime genetic studies. And then most importantly, how this translates into practical decisions for those seeking to promote longevity and reduce their likelihood of dementia.Blog Post and References:https://kevinforeymd.com/statins-dementia/

Episode 10. Beyond LDL: Why Remnant Cholesterol Deserves More Attention

In today’s episode, we will be diving into the topic of remnant cholesterol, a largely unknown and underappreciated risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Not only does remnant cholesterol contribute to heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease, it is now recognized as an independent risk factor of atherosclerosis, even when LDL-C and ApoB levels are considered optimal. In other words, having "good" ApoB and LDL cholesterol numbers doesn't eliminate the possibility of atherosclerosis, where remnant cholesterol is now recognized to account for a meaningful amount of this "residual risk."  Even more intriguing is the mounting body of research that suggests that remnant cholesterol may actually be a stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease than LDL-C itself, yet very few people are even aware it exists. Not only am I excited to share this topic with you today, but I’m also excited to share what you can do about it.Blog Post and References:⁠http://kevinforeymd.com/remnantcholesterol

Episode 9. Insulin Resistance: A Protocol for Prevention, Early Detection, and Reversal

In today’s episode, I will be discussing a comprehensive  overview of advanced testing and early identification of insulin resistance, but more importantly, evidence-based strategies to prevent and reverse insulin resistance. We will have an in-depth analysis of the comparative effectiveness of food and nutrition, aerobic exercise at moderate and high intensity heart rate zones, and strength training. We will also look into the effect of sleep duration, sleep quality, sleep fragmentation, and psychological health and their relationship to insulin resistance. Additionally, we will touch upon commonly utilized supplements and medications for overcoming insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Blog Post and References:http://kevinforeymd.com/insulinresistance