What does cholesterol really have to do with heart disease?
Should you take a statin?
Should anyone?
In this episode, Dr. Leland Stillman welcomes Dr. Stephen Hussey for an in-depth conversation on cardiovascular health, coronary artery calcium scores, cholesterol, and the factors that influence long term heart health. They cover how cellular energy production, inflammation, metabolism, nutrition, and lifestyle contribute to cardiovascular function. They discuss how patients can better understand their test results and engage in informed conversations with their healthcare providers.
Here’s exactly what they discuss in this podcast:
How an abnormal coronary artery calcium score, elevated cholesterol, or a history of heart disease can leave patients wondering what their results actually mean and what steps to take next…00:40
Why cardiovascular health may depend on more than cholesterol levels alone and how cellular energy production fits into the broader discussion of heart function…02:40
How coronary artery calcium scoring can provide additional context when evaluating cardiovascular risk as part of a comprehensive clinical assessment…08:36
Why inflammation, metabolism, nutrition, and lifestyle factors are increasingly being explored for their role in supporting long term cardiovascular health…15:42
How Dr. Hussey explains the relationship between blood vessels, circulation, and overall cardiovascular function through an integrative medicine perspective…22:15
Why shared decision making is essential when weighing the potential benefits, risks, and uncertainties of cardiovascular testing and treatment options…31:47
How individualized nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and environmental factors may contribute to supporting heart health alongside conventional care…39:54
Why empowering patients with education and evidence based discussions can help them make informed healthcare decisions with their medical team…54:12
How simple lifestyle practices may have a meaningful impact on long term health when combined with a personalized, comprehensive approach to care…55:48
Why understanding the underlying drivers of cardiovascular health may change how patients think about prevention, resilience, and healthy aging…56:10
You can find Dr. Stephen Hussey at resourceyourhealth.com and @DrStephenHussey on Instagram.
Additional Resources
Books mentioned in this episode: “The Trouble with Medical Journals” by: Richard Smith and “Bad Science” by: Ben Goldacre
For Dr. Stillman’s latest article visit here
Want to take your health to the next level? Here are a few ways to deepen your knowledge and take action on your health:
Dr. Stillman’s 14 Day Reset.
Work with Dr. Stillman – Ready to optimize your health with a functional and integrative approach? Apply to be a patient at Dr. Stillman’s practice and get a personalized health plan tailored to your needs.
Stay Informed & Inspired – Subscribe to Dr. Stillman’s newsletter for exclusive health insights, podcast updates, and expert guidance on living a vibrant life.
Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!
This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
