Heart Attacks are Preventable!

EP415: Inflammation—What, How, Why?

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. EP415: Inflammation—What, How, Why? - Summary Dr. Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist, author, and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode focused on inflammation and its role in chronic disease. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of what inflammation is, its causes, detection methods, and evidence-based strategies to reduce it naturally. Dr. Bishop emphasizes that while acute inflammation is beneficial for healing, chronic low-grade inflammation is linked to heart disease, Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and various cancers. Key Takeaways: Inflammation exists in two forms: acute inflammation (helpful response to injury with visible swelling and redness) and chronic low-grade inflammation (simmering in the background, linked to major diseases) Visceral fat (fat surrounding organs) is a major driver of inflammation; a prominent belly is a strong indicator of visceral fat presence, even in people who appear overweight elsewhere Multiple lifestyle factors trigger inflammation: highly processed foods, sedentary behavior, poor sleep, chronic stress, environmental toxins, and chronic infections like gingivitis High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HS-CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are accessible blood tests to detect inflammation; they're inexpensive and worth requesting from your doctor Sleep is critically important for reducing inflammation; prioritizing good sleep hygiene should be a foundational health practice Physical activity reduces inflammation by burning excess energy at the cellular level, preventing oxidative stress and free radical formation Anti-inflammatory nutrition includes fiber-rich foods, eating a variety of colored vegetables, omega-3 oils, and avoiding ultra-processed foods, excess sugar, and alcohol Stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness and breathing exercises significantly lower inflammation through reduced cortisol and adrenaline release Strength training helps reduce visceral fat and improve insulin sensitivity, providing dual benefits for inflammation management While steroids can reduce inflammation short-term, natural approaches like sleep, exercise, stress management, and dietary changes are sustainable long-term solutions without side effects Read more

EP414: Modern (Metabolic) Syndrome

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Episode Summary: Modern (Metabolic) Syndrome Dr. Auric Bishop, a cardiologist and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode focused on understanding and reversing metabolic syndrome—a modern health crisis affecting Australians, where someone suffers a heart attack every 20 minutes. Guest Warwick discusses metabolic syndrome as a warning system for serious chronic diseases rather than a disease itself, explaining its causes and providing actionable strategies for reversal. The episode aims to empower listeners to avoid developing metabolic syndrome by understanding its risk factors and making sustainable lifestyle changes. Key Takeaways: Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when three of five criteria are present: elevated waist circumference, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, and elevated fasting blood sugar. Insulin resistance sits at the core of metabolic syndrome, where cells throughout the body stop responding properly to insulin due to excessive carbohydrate exposure in modern diets. Visceral fat (fat stored around organs) is particularly dangerous and is linked to inflammation, higher blood sugar, elevated triglycerides, and reduced insulin response. Multiple lifestyle factors compound the problem: sedentary behavior, lack of exercise, sleep deprivation, chronic stress, and genetic predisposition all contribute to metabolic dysfunction. The primary intervention is reducing processed carbohydrates and adopting whole foods, with a Mediterranean diet approach being particularly effective. Regular physical activity is essential, but sustainability matters most—choose activities you genuinely enjoy to ensure long-term adherence. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can significantly improve insulin resistance outcomes. Stress management and quality sleep are critical, as chronic stress releases cortisol and glucose into the bloodstream, worsening metabolic dysfunction. Waist circumference (belt size) is a more honest and practical indicator of progress than weight scales. All recommended lifestyle changes—better nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, and improved sleep—address multiple aspects of metabolic syndrome simultaneously. Read more

EP413: Younger Sharper Stronger

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Episode Summary: EP413 - Younger Sharper Stronger Dr. Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist, author, and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode focusing on aging well and maintaining strength. At 60 years old, Dr. Bishop addresses the critical challenge of age-related muscle loss and explores how to preserve youth, mental sharpness, and physical strength through targeted health interventions. The episode emphasizes three key body systems—the brain, bones, and muscles—that require deliberate care as we age. Key Takeaways: Brain health is interconnected with cardiovascular health; managing blood pressure, inflammation, and metabolic health protects cognitive function and reduces dementia risk. Recent research demonstrates that lowering cholesterol levels, even with statins, reduces all-cause dementia, not just vascular dementia. Insulin resistance and poor metabolic health are linked to cognitive decline, with Alzheimer's disease sometimes referred to as "type 3 diabetes." Quality sleep is essential for brain health because it allows proteins that build up in brain fluid to drain away during sleep. Both aerobic activity and strength training are linked to improved long-term brain outcomes; combine these with a Mediterranean-style diet and adequate omega-3 oils (particularly DHA for brain health). Bone mineral density should be measured through a scan rather than guessed; hidden conditions can cause osteoporosis, making screening critical for anyone over 70 or with low-impact fractures. Load-bearing exercise, vitamin D, vitamin K2, magnesium, protein, and collagen are essential for building and maintaining bone density throughout life. Muscle loss (sarcopenia) leads to frailty, but strength training can be beneficial even into one's 90s, preventing loss of independence. Protein intake should be at least 1.5+ grams per kilogram of body weight daily; strength training sessions twice weekly combined with adequate protein supports muscle growth and metabolic health. Creatine supplementation and prioritized recovery/sleep enhance both brain function and muscle development; strength training improves insulin sensitivity, posture, balance, and mitochondrial health. Read more

EP412: Talking Psoriasis with Dr Foo and Dr Smith

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Episode Summary Dr. Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode with two expert guests: Dr. Fiona Foo, a general and interventional cardiologist from Sydney Cardiology Group, and Dr. Annika Smith, a consultant dermatologist specializing in complex inflammatory skin conditions. The episode explores psoriasis not merely as a skin condition, but as a systemic inflammatory disease with significant cardiovascular implications. Key Takeaways: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting 2-4% of the population, characterized by rapid skin cell turnover resulting in scaly, heaped-up skin typically on elbows, knees, and scalp. Psoriasis is a systemic disorder extending far beyond the skin, affecting the heart, joints (psoriatic arthritis in ~30% of patients), brain neurochemistry (depression and anxiety), and liver, with excess cardiovascular mortality due to increased atherosclerosis rates. Only 20% of psoriasis patients are aware of the relationship between their skin condition and cardiovascular disease, and time to diagnosis is often prolonged, delaying effective treatment initiation. Psoriasis is an independent cardiovascular risk factor equivalent to diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol, with patients experiencing up to 50% increased risk of heart attacks and presenting with cardiac events earlier than non-psoriasis patients. Patients with psoriasis commonly have multiple concurrent cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome, creating a compounding effect on cardiovascular risk. Early diagnosis and prompt commencement of effective therapy are critical for altering disease trajectory and preventing comorbidities like heart disease. Disease severity markers—including body surface area involvement greater than 10%, longer disease duration, and increased inflammation—correlate with elevated cardiovascular risk, independent of the extent of visible skin involvement. Risk calculators used by clinicians may underestimate cardiovascular risk in psoriasis patients since psoriasis is not factored into standard risk assessment tools, necessitating treatment of these patients as high-risk similar to diabetic patients. Anti-inflammatory medications including statins, colchicine, and monoclonal antibodies like canakinumab should be considered for psoriasis patients due to their potential to reduce inflammation-driven atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Lifestyle interventions including diet, exercise, and weight management are crucial as obesity creates a vicious cycle that worsens psoriasis severity and increases inflammation, further elevating cardiovascular risk. Read more

EP411: Gut Microbiome with Prof Talley Part 2

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Episode Summary Introduction: Dr. Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode with Professor Nicholas Talley, a distinguished gastroenterologist, epidemiologist, and researcher. This is part two of a discussion on the gut microbiome, expanding on the fascinating connections between gut health and systemic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease, with a focus on mechanisms like leaky gut and inflammation. Key Takeaways: The "leaky gut" phenomenon is now scientifically validated: damage to the gut barrier allows bacterial factors, food particles, and inflammatory molecules to enter the bloodstream, driving chronic diseases including high blood pressure and atherosclerosis rather than salt alone causing these conditions. A high-fiber diet is the most effective and evidence-based strategy to maintain microbiome health and diversity; commercial microbiome testing kits are generally unreliable and not worth the money. Probiotics have limited effectiveness because most organisms die before consumption and don't successfully repopulate the gut; a healthy diet provides far greater benefit than probiotic supplements. Prebiotics (like dietary fiber) are more beneficial than probiotics because they selectively promote growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful ones. Ultra-processed foods cause leaky gut and alter the microbiome in unhealthy ways; minimizing packaged foods and maximizing whole fruits and vegetables is critical for overall health. Antibiotics have significant long-term negative effects on microbiome diversity that can persist for months or longer, with multiple antibiotic courses potentially increasing risk of inflammatory bowel disease and other chronic conditions. The gut microbiome extends from the lips through the entire gastrointestinal tract (approximately 30 feet), meaning oral health issues like periodontitis can have systemic effects on cardiac health, as demonstrated by cases of atrial fibrillation resolving after gum disease treatment. Inflammation is a key driver of virtually all chronic diseases, from heart disease to cancer, making microbiome health crucial for disease prevention. Read more

EP410: Gut Microbiome with Prof Talley Part 1

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. EP410: Gut Microbiome with Prof Talley Part 1 Introduction Dr. Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode featuring Professor Nicholas Talley, a Distinguished Laureate Professor of Medicine at Newcastle University who is a gastroenterologist, epidemiologist, researcher, and author. The episode explores the gut microbiome—the trillions of organisms living in our digestive system—and its emerging role in affecting multiple aspects of human health and disease prevention. Key Takeaways: The gut microbiome consists of trillions of organisms and their associated genes that colonize our bodies at birth, primarily from our mothers and birth environment, with composition being influenced by delivery method (vaginal vs. cesarean section). Microbiome composition is shaped throughout life by diet, exercise, medications, and environmental factors, and these organisms release chemicals and metabolites that are absorbed by the body and affect functions beyond just the gut. Obesity is associated with reduced microbiome diversity, and while animal models show that manipulating the microbiome can lead to weight loss, this approach has not yet been successfully replicated in humans. The relationship between microbiome changes and disease follows a bidirectional "chicken and egg" pattern—body changes can alter organisms, and organism changes can affect the body, making causation difficult to establish. Fecal microbial transfer (FMT) and prebiotics/probiotics are being tested as therapeutic approaches, though most over-the-counter probiotics are ineffective; results vary significantly depending on which donor organisms are used. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treatment with FMT has shown mixed results, with some studies demonstrating dramatic symptom improvement while others failed, highlighting the critical importance of identifying the right organisms. Early research on FMT for Parkinson's disease is promising, with some trials showing significant improvements in disease symptoms, suggesting neurodegenerative diseases may become treatable through microbiome-based therapies. Oral bacteria can migrate to other parts of the digestive system where they don't belong; research has identified streptococcus from the mouth in the small intestine of patients with functional dyspepsia, suggesting misplaced organisms may drive disease. The microbiome field is complex because millions of organisms interact with each other and the body simultaneously, making it difficult to isolate which specific organisms drive particular health outcomes. Within the next 50 years, microbiome research may lead to cures for many diseases by identifying and treating the specific organisms responsible for disease development. Read more

EP409: 10 Good Things About Sauna

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Episode Summary Introduction: Dr Warrick Bishop, a cardiologist, author, and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, explores the surprising health benefits of regular sauna use. After a recent sauna experience on a boat in Tasmania's Derwent River, Dr Bishop dives into 10 evidence-based reasons why saunas are beneficial for overall health and longevity. The episode emphasizes how sauna use complements a heart-healthy lifestyle by addressing cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental wellness. Key Takeaways: Regular sauna users have lower risk of heart attack and stroke due to heat mimicking moderate exercise by increasing heart rate, circulation, and vasomotor response in arteries. Saunas lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with mild hypertension by improving endothelial function and promoting vasodilation. Sauna use improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, reducing insulin resistance and inflammation in the body. Post-workout sauna sessions accelerate muscle recovery and reduce soreness, potentially through improved circulation and increased growth hormone levels. Regular sauna use is associated with reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia through reduced inflammation, improved blood flow, and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Saunas induce heat shock proteins that repair damaged cells and protect against cellular stress, contributing to cellular resilience and longevity. Sauna use reduces chronic inflammation by lowering high-sensitivity CRP levels, an important inflammatory marker. Post-sauna core temperature drops trigger natural sleep signals, improving sleep quality and duration. Heavy sweating during sauna may help eliminate heavy metals and environmental toxins, though scientific evidence remains limited. Saunas reduce stress and improve mental clarity, with benefits including relaxation, rejuvenation, and improved cognitive function. Read more

EP408: Talking PEMF and Joint Replacement Surgery with Candice Johnston

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Podcast Summary: EP408 – Talking PEMF and Joint Replacement Surgery with Candice Johnston Introduction: Dr. Warwick hosts Candice Johnston, founder and CEO of Best Self, in a return appearance to discuss Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy and its applications in wellness and healing. The episode focuses on how PEMF technology can support bone healing, fracture recovery, and joint replacement surgery outcomes through non-invasive electromagnetic stimulation that mimics the Earth's natural electromagnetic field. Key Takeaways: PEMF therapy mimics the Earth's natural electromagnetic field (Schumann resonance at 7.83 Hertz) to counteract the harmful effects of artificial electromagnetic frequencies from modern technology like Wi-Fi and mobile towers. PEMF works by increasing cellular voltage and improving ion exchange, which enhances circulation, oxygen delivery, nutrient absorption, and hormonal distribution throughout the body. Research demonstrates that PEMF therapy can reduce fracture healing time by 40-60 percent and improved bone union rates by 80 percent in non-union fractures by stimulating osteoblasts and cell regeneration. PEMF devices are being offered for hire at OsteoStrong in Hobart for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery, particularly those at higher risk (elderly, diabetic, with osteoporosis, or previous steroid use). Best Self's new generation PEMF range uses a square waveform instead of the original sine waveform, delivering more stimulating and efficient energy to cells, though both offer similar benefits like relaxation and sleep improvement. PEMF therapy uniquely penetrates the entire body without recognizing material barriers, reaching cellular mitochondria to enhance ATP energy production at a deep biological level. PEMF therapy should complement rather than replace existing healthcare protocols such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medical treatments. Customers report significant anxiety relief, stress reduction, improved sleep quality, and reduced need for multiple healthcare appointments when integrating PEMF into their wellness routine. Read more

EP407: The Complexity of OSA with Kirk Huntsman

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. EP407: The Complexity of OSA with Kirk Huntsman Dr. Warwick hosts this episode featuring Kirk Huntsman, a businessman and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the sleep apnea space and connection to Vivos Therapeutics, a company developing devices for obstructive sleep apnea treatment. The episode explores the widespread prevalence, warning signs, and innovative treatment options for OSA, a condition affecting approximately one in eight people globally that can significantly impact cognitive function, quality of life, and longevity. Key Takeaways: Obstructive sleep apnea affects over a billion people worldwide (one in eight people) and can impact individuals across all ages, ethnicities, and body types, not just overweight middle-aged men as previously stereotyped. Moderate to severe sleep apnea significantly reduces life expectancy and quality of life, leaving patients never fully awake during the day and never fully asleep at night, preventing them from being "fully alive." Key warning signs of OSA include excessive daytime drowsiness, unrefreshed morning awakenings, restless sleep, snoring, specific neck measurements (17 inches in men, 14 inches in women), narrow upper palate, crooked teeth, and postural issues. Home sleep testing devices now make diagnosis accessible and convenient, eliminating the need for overnight stays at sleep clinics and allowing physicians to render accurate diagnoses from home-based data. Vivos Therapeutics develops oral appliances that non-surgically remodel the airway to address OSA at its root cause, potentially eliminating the need for lifelong CPAP use after 9-12 months of treatment. Two main types of oral appliance treatments exist: mandibular advancement devices (MAD) that reposition the lower jaw forward, and Vivos rehabilitation and restoration devices, which are the only FDA-cleared option for severe sleep apnea. Smartphone apps and wearable devices serve as valuable screening and monitoring tools but are not yet diagnostic-grade; they should prompt further evaluation with formal sleep testing. Treatment requires coordination between experienced medical physicians and specially trained dentists, as OSA is a complex, potentially life-threatening disorder requiring expertise and individualized care rather than simplified "plug and play" solutions. Modern home sleep testing technology and multiple treatment options make it feasible and important to request sleep testing as part of routine annual physical examinations. Read more

EP406: Dr Sara Tariq on Bias and Emotional Intelligence

Welcome to my podcast. I am Doctor Warrick Bishop, and I want to help you to live as well as possible for as long as possible. I’m a practising cardiologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and the creator of The Healthy Heart Network. I have over 20 years as a specialist cardiologist and a private practice of over 10,000 patients. Podcast Summary: EP406 - Dr. Sara Tariq on Bias and Emotional Intelligence Introduction Dr. Auric Bishop, a cardiologist and CEO of the Healthy Heart Network, hosts this episode featuring Dr. Sara Tariq, an internal medicine physician with over 20 years of experience and expertise in medical bias, women's health, and equality. The episode explores the critical topics of unconscious bias in healthcare, personalized chronic disease management, and emotional intelligence—all essential elements for delivering compassionate, effective patient care. Key Takeaways: Unconscious bias exists in all physicians despite training to heal and care; these biases are shaped by culture, upbringing, and environment but can significantly worsen patient outcomes, particularly affecting Black patients with cardiac conditions and other marginalized groups. The Harvard Implicit Association Test (Harvard IAT) is a free, validated self-assessment tool available online that helps healthcare professionals identify their own unconscious biases across multiple demographics including race, weight, gender, sexual orientation, and religion. Medical schools across the United States are implementing implicit bias workshops for both faculty and students to raise awareness and combat unconscious bias before it impacts patient care. Trust and genuine care form the foundation of effective medical relationships; patients are unlikely to adhere to treatment plans or engage in lifestyle changes without first believing their physician cares about them. Personalized chronic disease care requires viewing patients as equal partners in decision-making, empowering them through feeling heard and validated rather than simply prescribing treatment. Chronic illness triggers four major emotional experiences in patients: isolation, loss of function and identity, uncertainty about the future, and erosion of trust in physicians and healthcare systems. Language matters critically in medicine; describing conditions as "ticking time bombs" creates unnecessary anxiety and uncertainty rather than helping patients manage their emotional experience of illness. Patients experience chronic disease diagnosis similarly to grief, moving through stages of mourning for their lost health, requiring physicians to provide emotional support during this process rather than clinical detachment. Emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize and respond to emotions in oneself and others in real time—is an essential skill for physicians that directly improves patient motivation, adherence, and health outcomes. Read more