The Smart Woman's Guide to Heart Health

09/01/2026

The Third Edition of the DASH Diet for Dummies is here!

You've heard all about life hacks, expensive supplements, and fancy devices that promise better health.

But the truth is that good health depends on a healthy lifestyle. That's where the DASH diet comes in. DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, and it's backed by decades of medical research.

DASH has the power to lower your blood pressure by as much as a daily pill. It can also reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, dementia, and more. And that's with no supplements and three easy and delicious meals a day.

This book was co-authored with two experienced and highly respected dietitians: Rosanne Rust, MS, RDN and Cindy Kleckner, RDN, LD, FAND. It's available now wherever books are sold!

09/06/2024

Supplements are often marketed for heart health. But what's the science behind these popular products? In my latest article for GoodRx, we'll explore which supplements might help, which probably won't do anything for you, and which supplements might even cause harm.

Medications can be life-saving, but a dose of prevention can go a long way towards better health. Besides discussing 16 common supplements, I'll also share what steps you can take to naturally bring down your heart attack risk and limit your need for medications.

Can a vitamin lower your blood pressure or prevent heart disease? While the research is still out, here are heart health supplements that may help.

02/02/2023

This is one of the best evidence-based summaries of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that I have seen in the press. It's nuanced, but for many women, HRT is a reasonable choice.

Hot flashes, sleeplessness, pain during s*x: For some of menopause’s worst symptoms, there’s an established treatment. Why aren’t more women offered it?

01/29/2023

Do you have questions about Lipoprotein (a)? It's a lesser-known form of cholesterol that can have important implications for your health. Learn more in my recent article for GoodRx.com
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/high-cholesterol/lipoprotein-a-heart-disease

Lipoprotein (a) is a type of cholesterol linked to heart disease. Learn which factors contribute to increased lipoprotein levels and if you should get tested.

12/03/2022

Happy December! -

As we get closer to the end of the year, I want to express my gratitude to my wonderful yoga community. Thank you for joining me, and for sharing your inspiration and energy!

11/30/2022

Are you one of the millions of people who enjoy energy drinks? Ever wonder how they might impact your health? While most people can indulge occasionally, overdoing it could be harmful. My latest article on GoodRx.com is all about energy drinks, your blood pressure, and your heart health.
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/hypertension/do-energy-drinks-raise-blood-pressure

Researchers found that energy drinks can raise your blood pressure and lead to heart problems. Learn how long the side effects last and the potential health risks.

10/29/2022

Carvedilol and metoprolol are commonly used beta blockers, but there are important differences between the two. My latest article for GoodRx breaks it down into layman's terms. Of course, this is a general discussion, and not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your physician for more personalized advice and recommendations.

Carvedilol and metoprolol are beta blockers that can help treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation as well as protect against heart attack. Explore differences so you know which one is better for you.

04/09/2022

Stress can cause chest pain in many different ways. Sometimes it's simply due to tightening or strain in the muscles of the chest, back, or neck. Other times, GERD or other GI conditions can cause these symptoms. But stress also has a more deadly side, and in worst cases may contribute to heart disease. That's why it's important to take your symptoms seriously. See my article in GoodRx.com for more about stress, chest pain, and the importance of involving your physician or health care provider to help sort out the cause.

Chest pain is often a symptom during episodes of high stress, such as a panic attack. This is because the body releases greater levels of adrenaline and cortisol when you’re stressed. Learn more about the symptoms of chest pain and stress — and when you should seek treatment.