Category: Metabolic Health

  • CAC Header

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

——

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/

  • Header

Achieving Optimal Metabolic Health: Criteria and Strategies

By Stephen Fitzmeyer, MD

Metabolic health is an essential component of overall health, and it is crucial to understand the criteria necessary to achieve optimal metabolic health. An individual is considered to have optimal metabolic health if their markers meet the following levels: A1C less than 5.7%, blood pressure lower than 120/80 mmHg, waist circumference of 0.5 or less, triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL, and HDL cholesterol 60 mg/dL (1.6 mmol/L) or above.

On the other hand, an individual may be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome if they fail to meet three of the above criteria. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It is estimated that over one-third of American adults have metabolic syndrome, emphasizing the need to address this issue.

To achieve optimal metabolic health, a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical interventions is necessary. The strategies to improve metabolic health include regular physical activity, healthy dietary choices, maintaining a healthy weight, smoking cessation, and managing stress. Additionally, medical interventions such as medication management of blood pressure and blood glucose levels may be necessary for some individuals.

Incorporating these strategies into daily life can significantly improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. It is essential to work with healthcare providers to establish personalized goals and develop a plan to achieve them. Regular monitoring of metabolic markers is also crucial to ensure that the interventions are effective.

In conclusion, achieving optimal metabolic health requires a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle modifications and medical interventions. By meeting the criteria outlined above and incorporating strategies to improve metabolic health, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and improve their overall health and well-being.

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/

Scroll to top