Category: CAC

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CAC: The Ultimate Test for Assessing Health and Why You Need One Now!

By Stephen Fitzmeyer, MD

Introduction

In the realm of healthcare, staying proactive and prioritizing preventive measures is key to maintaining optimal health. The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring test has recently emerged as a groundbreaking tool in health assessment, providing invaluable insights into cardiovascular health. This article highlights the significance of CAC as the ultimate test for assessing health and emphasizes why individuals should consider getting one now to safeguard their well-being. Additionally, we’ll explore how patients can easily obtain a CAC scan for themselves.

Understanding CAC Scoring

The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring test employs non-invasive computed tomography (CT) scans to detect the presence and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. By quantifying the amount of calcium present, it calculates a CAC score, effectively gauging the overall burden of atherosclerosis in the arteries. This score serves as a crucial predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), empowering individuals to take preventive action.

The Urgency of CAC as a Health Indicator

  1. Early Detection of Silent Risks: CAC scoring enables early detection of potential cardiovascular issues, even before symptoms manifest. By identifying calcified plaque deposits, healthcare professionals can determine an individual’s risk of experiencing a heart attack or developing coronary artery disease (CAD). Seeking a CAC test now can help unveil hidden risks and prompt timely interventions to prevent disease progression.
  2. Personalized Risk Assessment: Unlike traditional risk assessment tools, CAC scoring provides a precise evaluation of atherosclerosis. Through quantitative analysis, it offers a more accurate estimation of an individual’s risk of developing CVD. Obtaining a CAC score now empowers healthcare providers to devise personalized treatment plans tailored to an individual’s level of risk, enabling timely interventions and better health outcomes.
  3. Empowerment for Lifestyle Changes: CAC scoring serves as a powerful motivator for individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. Witnessing the presence and extent of calcified plaque acts as a visual reminder of the importance of positive changes in diet, exercise, and stress management. By getting a CAC test now, you can proactively take charge of your health, making informed decisions and fostering long-term adherence to beneficial lifestyle modifications.
  4. Preventive Measures for Long-Term Health: CAC scoring facilitates proactive preventive measures by categorizing individuals into different risk groups based on their CAC scores. This allows healthcare providers to implement appropriate treatments and interventions to reduce the risk of CVD. Taking action now, based on your CAC score, can significantly improve your long-term cardiovascular health and well-being.

How to Obtain a CAC Scan

To obtain a CAC scan, you can follow these steps:

  1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your interest in getting a CAC scan. They will evaluate your medical history, risk factors, and overall health to determine if a CAC scan is appropriate for you.
  2. Referral and Imaging Facility: If your healthcare provider determines that a CAC scan is necessary, they will provide you with a referral to an imaging facility or radiology center equipped to perform the scan.
  3. Schedule the Scan: Contact the recommended imaging facility and schedule your CAC scan appointment. They will provide you with any necessary instructions, such as fasting requirements or medication restrictions before the test.
  4. The CAC Scan Procedure: During the CAC scan, you will lie on a table that moves through a CT scanner. The scan is quick and painless, typically taking only a few minutes to complete.
  5. Results and Follow-up: Once the scan is complete, the radiologist will analyze the images and calculate your CAC score. Your healthcare provider will then review the results with you. They will explain the implications of your CAC score, discuss any necessary lifestyle modifications or medical interventions, and develop a personalized plan to mitigate your cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring test is a powerful tool for assessing cardiovascular health and preventing future complications. By identifying silent risks, providing personalized risk assessment, motivating lifestyle changes, and enabling proactive preventive measures, CAC scoring empowers individuals to take control of their well-being. To obtain a CAC scan, consult your healthcare provider, obtain a referral to an imaging facility, schedule the scan, and discuss the results and follow-up plan with your healthcare provider. Take the proactive step towards optimizing your health and consider getting a CAC scan now. Your heart and overall well-being will thank you for it.

CAC Score

After undergoing a CAC scan, you will receive a CAC score that falls within a specific range. Here are the general ranges and their corresponding meanings:

  1. CAC Score of 0: A CAC score of 0 indicates the absence of detectable calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. This suggests a very low risk of cardiovascular events, and individuals in this range often have a favorable prognosis.
  2. CAC Score of 1-99: A CAC score between 1 and 99 indicates the presence of mild calcification in the coronary arteries. This range signifies a low to moderate risk of cardiovascular disease, and it is an opportunity for individuals to implement preventive measures to reduce the progression of plaque formation.
  3. CAC Score of 100-399: A CAC score between 100 and 399 represents the presence of moderate calcification in the coronary arteries. This range suggests a significant risk of cardiovascular disease, and it necessitates more aggressive preventive strategies and medical interventions to reduce the risk of future complications.
  4. CAC Score of 400 or Higher: A CAC score of 400 or higher indicates extensive calcification in the coronary arteries. This range represents a high risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. It necessitates immediate and intensive medical interventions, including lifestyle modifications and potential medication therapies, to mitigate the risk and prevent further progression.

By understanding the range of CAC scores and their implications, individuals can work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan that addresses their specific risk level.

To obtain a CAC scan, consult your healthcare provider, obtain a referral to an imaging facility, schedule the scan, and discuss the results and follow-up plan with your healthcare provider. Take the proactive step towards optimizing your health and consider getting a CAC scan now. Your heart and overall well-being will thank you for it.

Author: Stephen Fitzmeyer, M.D.
Physician Informaticist
Founder of Patient Keto
Founder of Warp Core Health
Founder of Jax Code Academy, jaxcode.com

Connect with Dr. Stephen Fitzmeyer:
Twitter: @PatientKeto
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sfitzmeyer/

  • Chronic Inflammation

Are You One of the 88% of the the U.S. Adult Population suffering from Chronic Inflammation? Here’s what you should know to find out and fix it.

By Stephen Fitzmeyer, MD

Introduction: Chronic inflammation is a silent yet powerful contributor to various health problems. It serves as a warning sign of underlying conditions such as metabolic syndrome, poor diet, and other chronic diseases. In this article, we aim to shed light on the detrimental effects of chronic inflammation and emphasize the significance of making positive lifestyle changes to prevent its progression and the onset of related health issues.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disorders, obesity, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and respiratory diseases. Understanding the significant impact of chronic inflammation on these chronic diseases highlights the urgency of addressing inflammation through lifestyle modifications.

Part 1: Chronic Inflammation and its Link to Metabolic Syndrome

Chronic inflammation is closely intertwined with metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that includes obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels. This syndrome sets the stage for chronic inflammation, fueling a vicious cycle. As chronic inflammation persists, it further promotes the development of metabolic abnormalities, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

Part 2: The Role of Diet in Chronic Inflammation

A poor diet plays a significant role in chronic inflammation. Consuming processed foods high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives triggers an inflammatory response within the body. Moreover, the excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids found in seed oils, commonly used in processed foods, promotes an imbalance in the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, further exacerbating inflammation. To reduce chronic inflammation, it is important to avoid seed oils such as soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, and cottonseed oil, and instead opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil.

Part 3: Inflammatory Markers to Assess Chronic Inflammation

If you suspect chronic inflammation, your physician may order specific blood tests to assess inflammatory markers in your body. These markers can provide valuable insights into the presence and extent of inflammation. Common inflammatory markers include:

  1. C-reactive Protein (CRP): Elevated CRP levels indicate systemic inflammation and can be indicative of various diseases.
  2. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): ESR measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube, which can be elevated during inflammation.
  3. Interleukin-6 (IL-6): IL-6 is a cytokine involved in the inflammatory response, and increased levels may indicate ongoing inflammation.
  4. Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α): TNF-α is another cytokine associated with inflammation, and elevated levels are observed in chronic inflammatory conditions.
  5. Fasting Insulin: Insulin resistance, often associated with chronic inflammation, can be assessed through fasting insulin levels.

Part 4: Taking Control: Lifestyle Changes to Combat Chronic Inflammation

The good news is that chronic inflammation is not entirely beyond our control. By making positive lifestyle changes, we can reduce its impact and mitigate the risks associated with it. Here are some key steps to consider:

  1. Adopting a Healthy Diet: By adopting a high-fat, low-carb diet rich in healthy fats, adequate protein, and non-starchy vegetables, you can reduce chronic inflammation, enhance your overall well-being, and enjoy a healthier and more vibrant life. Emphasize foods such as fatty fish, grass-fed meats, eggs, nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and non-starchy vegetables. Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and seed oils high in omega-6 fatty acids, as they contribute to inflammation.
  2. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to combat obesity, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce systemic inflammation.
  3. Stress Management: Chronic stress contributes to inflammation. Incorporate stress management techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises into your routine.

Conclusion: Chronic inflammation is a red flag indicating underlying health issues and the potential development of chronic diseases. Metabolic syndrome, poor diet, and other factors contribute to its persistence. By recognizing the role of chronic inflammation in these conditions, we can take proactive steps to address it through lifestyle modifications. Adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and avoiding seed oils are crucial in combating chronic inflammation and reducing the risk of associated chronic diseases.

If you suspect chronic inflammation, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can order specific blood tests to assess inflammatory markers in your body, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and fasting insulin. These tests provide valuable insights into the presence and extent of inflammation, helping your physician develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Don’t wait until chronic inflammation leads to more serious health complications. Take action now to protect your well-being and prevent the development of chronic diseases. Your health is your most valuable asset, and addressing chronic inflammation is a vital step in safeguarding it.

Remember, you are in control of your health. By making conscious choices and adopting a proactive approach, you can reduce chronic inflammation, improve your well-being, and lead a vibrant life. Prioritize your health, make informed choices, and embrace a lifestyle that promotes well-being. Understanding the connection between chronic inflammation, metabolic syndrome, poor diet, and chronic diseases empowers you to break free from this harmful cycle and achieve better health and vitality. Start today and enjoy the long-term benefits of a life free from chronic inflammation. Your body will thank you for it.

Author: Stephen Fitzmeyer, M.D.
Physician Informaticist
Founder of Patient Keto
Founder of Warp Core Health
Founder of Jax Code Academy, jaxcode.com

Connect with Dr. Stephen Fitzmeyer:
Twitter: @PatientKeto
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sfitzmeyer/

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Unlocking the Benefits of Vitamin K2: Clearing Arterial Calcium and Achieving a CAC Score of Zero

by Stephen Fitzmeyer

Introduction: Maintaining cardiovascular health is a top priority for many individuals seeking to lead a long and vibrant life. While regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial elements, recent research has shed light on the potential benefits of vitamin K2 in promoting arterial health. In this article, we delve into the role of vitamin K2 in clearing calcium from arteries, leading to the desirable achievement of a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score of zero.

Understanding the Role of Calcium in Arteries: Calcium is an essential mineral for our body, contributing to the formation and strength of bones and teeth. However, when calcium starts accumulating in arterial walls, it can lead to the formation of plaque, narrowing the arteries and hindering blood flow. This process, known as arterial calcification, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

Vitamin K2: A Key Player in Arterial Health: Emerging research suggests that vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in maintaining arterial health by effectively managing calcium levels in the body. Vitamin K2 activates proteins that shuttle calcium away from arteries and deposit it in bones, where it is needed. By doing so, vitamin K2 helps to prevent and even reverse arterial calcification.

Clearing Arterial Calcium with Vitamin K2: One of the most remarkable aspects of vitamin K2 is its potential to clear existing arterial calcium deposits. Studies have shown that by ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin K2, individuals with arterial calcification may experience a reduction in the severity of plaque buildup over time. This can lead to improved arterial flexibility and reduced cardiovascular risks.

Achieving a CAC Score of Zero: A coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is a measure of the amount of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries. A score of zero indicates no detectable calcium, which is considered an optimal outcome. While multiple factors contribute to achieving a CAC score of zero, including lifestyle choices and genetics, incorporating vitamin K2 into your routine may play a significant role in promoting arterial health and minimizing calcium deposits.

How to Incorporate Vitamin K2 into Your Routine: To maximize the potential benefits of vitamin K2, it is important to ensure an adequate intake of this nutrient. Vitamin K2 can be found in certain foods, including fermented dairy products, organ meats, and certain cheeses. However, for those who may have limited access to these sources or have dietary restrictions, vitamin K2 supplements are widely available and offer a convenient way to meet the recommended daily intake.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional: As with any dietary change or supplement regimen, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating vitamin K2 into your routine. They can assess your individual health needs, provide guidance on appropriate dosages, and help monitor the progress of arterial health through regular check-ups and assessments.

Conclusion: Achieving optimal arterial health and aiming for a CAC score of zero is a significant goal for cardiovascular well-being. While there are multiple factors at play, emerging research highlights the potential of vitamin K2 in promoting arterial health and clearing arterial calcium. By incorporating vitamin K2 into your routine and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can take proactive steps towards supporting your cardiovascular health and enjoying a life free from the burden of arterial calcification.

Author: Stephen Fitzmeyer, M.D.
Physician Informaticist
Founder of Patient Keto
Founder of Warp Core Health
Founder of Jax Code Academy, jaxcode.com

Connect with Dr. Stephen Fitzmeyer:
Twitter: @PatientKeto
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sfitzmeyer/

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Understanding the CAC Test and Achieving a Score of 0 with Ketogenic Diet and Intermittent Fasting

By Stephen Fitzmeyer, MD

Introduction:

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) test is a non-invasive test that measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. The test uses a CT scanner to detect calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which is an indication of the presence of plaque that can cause heart disease. A high score on the CAC test is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other related conditions. However, research has shown that a combination of a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting can help achieve a CAC score of 0, indicating optimal heart health.

CAC Test and Its Importance:

The CAC test measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries and is used to assess an individual’s risk of developing heart disease. The test uses a CT scanner to detect calcium deposits in the walls of the coronary arteries. These deposits are a sign of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart disease. The CAC score is a measure of the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, and a high score indicates an increased risk of heart disease.

Achieving a CAC Score of 0 with a Ketogenic Diet and Intermittent Fasting:

Research has shown that a combination of a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting can help achieve a CAC score of 0, indicating optimal heart health. A ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that promotes the use of fat as the primary source of energy. This diet has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL cholesterol levels.

Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating that involves periods of fasting and periods of eating. This eating pattern has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure, all of which can contribute to optimal heart health.

Studies have shown that a combination of a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting can help reduce the risk of heart disease and achieve a CAC score of 0. One study found that a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting for six months resulted in a significant reduction in the CAC score in participants with high initial scores. Another study showed that a low-carbohydrate diet combined with intermittent fasting for eight weeks resulted in a significant reduction in triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol levels.

Conclusion:

The CAC test is an important tool for assessing an individual’s risk of developing heart disease. However, a combination of a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting can help achieve a CAC score of 0, indicating optimal heart health. These lifestyle changes have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure. Therefore, incorporating a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting into your lifestyle can lead to optimal heart health.

References:

1. Lu DY, Lu TR, Jackson NC, et al. Effects of a ketogenic diet combined with exercise on the CAC score and atherogenic index of plasma in adults with overweight and obesity. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2021;14:3105-3116. doi:10.2147/DMSO.S326587

2. Ganesan K, Habboush Y, Sultan S. Intermittent fasting: the choice for a healthier lifestyle. Cureus. 2018;10(7):e2947. doi:10.7759/cureus.2947

3. Yokoyama Y, Takachi R, Ishihara J, et al. Association between a low-carbohydrate diet and coronary artery calcification in Japanese men and women: a cross-sectional study

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Author: Stephen Fitzmeyer, M.D.
Physician Informaticist
Founder of Patient Keto
Founder of Warp Core Health
Founder of Jax Code Academy, jaxcode.com

Connect with Dr. Stephen Fitzmeyer:
Twitter: @PatientKeto
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sfitzmeyer/

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