The hottest Cardiovascular Health Substack posts right now

Higher seed oil intake (measured by linoleic acid) is not linked to worse health and is associated with lower long‑term mortality and better markers like lower inflammation and healthier lipids.
Most anti‑seed‑oil arguments rely on mechanistic, animal, or cherry‑picked evidence and are inconsistent; high‑quality human studies and trials don’t support the claim that seed oils are harmful.
Using stronger methods and measurements (plasma biomarkers, propensity matching, doubly‑robust estimation) removes signals of harm and fails to confirm mechanistic worries like raised arachidonic acid, oxidative damage, vitamin E depletion, or clotting—while saturated fat shows worse associations.

The trial data for Semaglutide (Wegovy) for cardiovascular risk reduction was manipulative and lacking in transparency, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and data sharing.
The study demographics were concerning, with a lack of diversity and representation, particularly skewed towards white men, older participants, and those with existing heart disease.
The actual cardiovascular risk reduction with Semaglutide was much lower than claimed, highlighting issues with study design, data presentation, and potential overemphasis on specific demographics in the results.

The expanding GLP-1 drug family shows potential for treating obesity with new triple agonist drugs.
Clinical trials with G-agonists reveal reductions in major cardiovascular events and heart failure symptoms.
GLP-1 drugs have shown promise in treating early type 1 diabetes, cognitive function, alcohol use disorder, and more.

Shoveling snow can suddenly overload the heart because it combines heavy arm work, breath-holding, and cold air that raise blood pressure and heart rate.
Large studies link heavy snowfalls to spikes in heart attacks and cardiac deaths, especially in men and people with underlying risk factors.
If you have heart disease or risk factors, arrange for someone else to remove the snow. If you must shovel, go slowly, dress warmly, push or use a snowblower instead of lifting, and stop immediately for chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or other warning signs.

Lower blood pressure targets are beneficial for heart health, brain health, and overall mortality.
More stringent blood pressure goals may require lifestyle changes or additional medications.
SPRINT findings showed benefits for all age groups, regardless of other health factors.

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A recent study found no increase in cardiovascular risk with testosterone therapy for men with low T levels.
Make sure to confirm low T levels before starting testosterone therapy.
Weight loss and exercise can help alleviate symptoms related to low T without the use of testosterone therapy.

Menopause hormone therapy can be safe and beneficial when prescribed appropriately, considering individual risks and benefits.
Estrogen doesn't cause breast cancer for the majority of women; the benefits of hormone therapy often outweigh the risks.
Women going through menopause should have open conversations with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about hormone therapy.

ApoB is a crucial biomarker linked to cardiovascular health.
High levels of ApoB can lead to atherosclerosis, affecting brain function.
Managing ApoB levels involves dietary adjustments and understanding genetic factors.

First study to find micro/nano plastics in atheroma plaque with significant link to poorer health outcomes
Plastics are pervasive and harmful, found in various body tissues and linked to health issues like cancer and premature births
Urgent need to address plastic pollution - focus on reducing single-use plastics and transitioning away from fossil fuels

Blood levels of vitamin K mainly reflect recent intake rather than long-term nutritional status. Testing the carboxylation status of vitamin K-dependent proteins is a more accurate way to assess vitamin K status.
Clotting disorders are a significant concern, so tests for vitamin K-dependent clotting factors are well-established. These tests prioritize clotting function over other aspects of vitamin K's role.
The most common marker for vitamin K status in research studies is the carboxylation status of osteocalcin, reflecting vitamin K status in bone. A promising future marker is desphospho-uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein for assessing vascular health.