One of the best explanations of our bad-nutrition cycle and resulting health epidemic.

Dr. Dwight Lundell, a heart surgeon with over 25 years of experience and more than 5,000 open-heart surgeries, discusses the true causes of heart disease:

  • Inflammation as the Root Cause: Contrary to the traditional focus on elevated blood cholesterol, Dr. Lundell identifies chronic inflammation in artery walls as the primary cause of heart disease. Without inflammation, cholesterol would not accumulate in blood vessel walls.
  • Dietary Misconceptions: He criticizes long-standing dietary guidelines that promote low-fat diets and the use of polyunsaturated oils, stating that these recommendations have led to increased consumption of processed carbohydrates and omega-6 oils, contributing to chronic inflammation.
  • Impact of Processed Foods: The shift towards processed foods, rich in sugars and omega-6 fats, has resulted in an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, exacerbating inflammation and increasing the risk of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
  • Role of Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Excessive intake of omega-6 fats, prevalent in processed oils, disrupts the balance with omega-3 fats, leading to the production of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines.
  • Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates: High consumption of sugars and refined carbohydrates spikes blood sugar levels, causing glycation of proteins and subsequent inflammation in blood vessel walls.
  • Recommendations for Prevention:
  • Dietary Changes: Adopt a diet rich in fresh, unprocessed foods, emphasizing proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats like olive oil and butter.
  • Avoidance of Harmful Foods: Reduce intake of omega-6-rich oils and processed carbohydrates to decrease inflammation.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate regular physical activity and stress management techniques to support overall cardiovascular health.

Dr. Lundell emphasizes that addressing chronic inflammation through dietary and lifestyle changes is crucial for preventing and managing heart disease.

Source: https://www.sott.net/article/242516-Heart-Surgeon-Speaks-Out-On-What-Really-Causes-Heart-Disease