Photo: Scott Francis of Montefiore Einstein
A whole-food, plant-based diet can be an effective tool for managing heart disease. This is the consensus of numerous published scientific studies, including the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and his 2023 clinical trial of participants. A healthy vegan diet can lower your cholesterol in just a few weeks. However, finding a cardiologist who is knowledgeable about applying WFPB nutrition to their practice can be difficult. Fortunately, a small number of innovative heart clinics specialize in just that, using plant-based diets and other lifestyle strategies (along with medications and procedures as needed) to treat heart disease. ) is seriously incorporated. If you or a loved one is concerned about cardiovascular health and interested in healing through nutrition, check out these innovative US clinics.
Montefiore Cardiac Wellness Program
Montefiore Medical Center’s Cardiac Wellness Program has been helping patients live healthier lifestyles for more than 10 years at our Bronx location. Last year, this innovative program opened a clinic in Manhattan. The program consists of office visits where patients receive personalized guidance on transitioning to a whole foods, plant-based diet and making other heart-healthy changes, as well as explaining the science behind plant-based nutrition. , consisting of virtual educational sessions that provide time for Q&A. . It will be led by Robert Ostfeld, M.D., director of preventive cardiology at Montefiore. His passion for plant-based nutrition earned him the nickname “Dr. Ostfeld.” Kale,” as he was known among his medical students. Ostfeld said he is incredibly satisfied with the heart health program. “Patients saw improvement in chest pain, weight loss, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and improved erectile function,” Ostfeld said. “We literally have patients who feel better in our office and cry tears of joy.” To schedule an appointment, call 212-324-4222. Learn more about.
south denver heart center
Since our founding in 1977, South Denver Cardiology Associates has championed an integrative approach to cardiology that combines aspects of Western and Eastern medicine. Their holistic philosophy shines through at the Heart Center in Littleton. Designed with relaxation in mind, the facility includes an outdoor maze for meditative walks and offers yoga and tai chi classes, as well as massage therapy, in addition to a cardiac rehabilitation clinic. This state-of-the-art clinic offers a comprehensive Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation (ICR) program that teaches patients how to adopt plant-based cooking and eating techniques, safe exercise techniques, and a healthier mindset. is teaching. In addition to the Heart Center, South Denver Cardiology Associates has several offices around the Denver area with a staff that includes a registered dietitian who specializes in the WFPB diet. Learn more about.
Khan Cardiac Longevity Center
On a mission to help people live as long as possible, plant-based cardiologist Dr. Joel Kahn has treated tens of thousands of heart patients over the past 25 years. At his heart clinic in suburban Detroit, Kahn offers the ultimate in heart diagnostics. This is a thorough one-on-one assessment in which he assesses various aspects of a patient’s cardiovascular health to determine an individualized treatment plan. Additional services at the clinic include carotid medial thickness (CIMT) ultrasound, advanced testing, calcium scores, genetic testing, and nutritional counseling. Learn more about.
Esselstein Cardiology Program
Widely considered the birthplace of coronary artery bypass surgery, Cleveland Clinic has been at the forefront of heart care for the better part of a century. It’s no surprise, then, that this renowned institution is at the forefront when it comes to researching the effectiveness of nutrition in treating heart disease. In the 1980s, the clinic allowed Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr., MD, to conduct groundbreaking research that paved the way for modern plant-based exercise. Cleveland Clinic is now home to the Esselstyn Cardiology Program. This 6-hour-a-day intensive program educates on the science of whole-food, plant-based nutrition and promises to help patients make healthy changes in all aspects of their lives. Participants will be provided with a healthy vegan lunch and will go home with session recordings, study materials, and a plant-based cookbook. Learn more about.
Ornish lifestyle medicine
Through his clinical practice and groundbreaking research, Dean Ornish, MD, shows that lifestyle changes can reverse even severe heart disease without drugs or surgery. I have proven that. His program proved so effective that Medicare created a new benefit category to cover it. Ornish Lifestyle Medicine is his 9-week program of 18 online live classes covering how to eat better, move more, reduce stress, and build a strong support network. Participants will receive sensors that track heart rate, weight, and blood pressure. Activity mats and exercise props. He delivers two weeks worth of healthy plant-based breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks to your doorstep. Notably, Ornish Lifestyle Medicine is reimbursed by Blue Shield of California, Aetna, and other private insurance companies in addition to Medicare. Learn more about.
To learn more about whole food, plant-based eating, check out our Plant-Based Primer. For meal planning support, check out Forks Meal Planner, FOK’s easy weekly meal planning tool to help you stick to a healthy plant-based diet.
