The Cholesterol Lie — Dr. Joel Kahn, Dr. Niki Davis / Plant Based Support PODCAST #3

Heart disease is still the leading cause of death—but much of it is preventable. ❤️🌱

In this episode of the Plant-Based Support Podcast, Dr. Nikki Davis sits down with Dr. Joel Kahn, board-certified cardiologist and leader in plant-based preventive cardiology, to break down how a whole food, plant-based diet and lifestyle medicine can dramatically reduce heart disease risk.

Together, they explore why preventive cardiology matters, which cardiac tests and markers everyone should understand, and how genetics like lipoprotein(a) can influence heart health—even in people who eat well and exercise. Dr. Kahn explains advanced testing methods, the difference between soft and hard plaque, and why early awareness is key to long-term wellness.

Whether you’re vegan, plant-based, or simply focused on heart disease prevention, this conversation offers clear, practical insights to help you take charge of your cardiovascular health.

Key topics covered

❤️ Plant-based diet and heart health

🌱 Preventive cardiology and lifestyle medicine

🩺 Cardiac testing and early detection

🧬Lipoprotein(a), ApoB, and genetic risk

🥗 Nutrition, wellness, and heart disease prevention

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Plant-Based Living and Heart Health

03:00 The Impact of Plant-Based Diet on Cardiovascular Disease

05:46 Personal Journeys and Family Health History

08:50 Understanding Cardiac Testing and Markers

11:35 The Importance of Lipoprotein(a) and Genetic Factors

14:51 Advanced Testing for Heart Health

17:38 The Role of Niacin in Heart Health

20:20 Apolipoprotein B and Its Significance

23:29 Soft Plaque vs. Hard Plaque in Heart Disease

26:09 Conclusion and Community Support

🌱 ABOUT OUR PODCAST

The Plant Based Support Podcast features conversations with clinicians, members, researchers, and leaders in the plant-based movement. Our mission:

Support. Educate. Empower.

Together, As One.

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