ISSUE 138
5 WAYS ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS IMPACT YOUR HEALTH PG 33
A HEART AND PASSION FOR PATIENT CARE AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. SHAGHAYEGH TAVASSOLI PG 36
A healthy heart will give you the courage to face and overcome any challenge in life. - J AY O L S H A N S K Y
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TEAM EDITOR IN CHIEF Brianna Connors
PODCAST C O O R D I N AT O R Justin Miller
SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Lauren Rider
C R E AT I V E DIRECTOR Aviana Roth
MARKETING DIRECTOR Derek Archer
GRAPHIC DESIGNER A d a r a Wr i g h t
LEAD JOURNALIST Riley George
D I G I TA L M E D I A DIRECTOR H a n n a h To w n e s
PROJECT C O O R D I N AT O R Lillian Myers
CONTRIBUTORS Adreana Mendez, Emma Palmberg, Gaye Newton, Gentry Shannon, Ionuț Raicea, Louisa Emhof, Luke Argue, Merald Ayson, Nathan Pipkin, Yuko Tabasa
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Leading a healthy, well-balanced life is a challenging undertaking for many of us. New advancements in lifestyle or nutrition come to life daily, and the busy rhythm of our lives often prevents us from keeping up with what’s fun and fresh. Here at Top Doctor Magazine, we are on a mission to bring these advancements to your attention and become a source of inspiration for those who want to live their lives to the fullest. Our contributors will constantly keep you up to speed with fresh, entertaining, and reliable content, from nutrition and travel to lifestyle choices! We hope that our handpicked ideas will guide you towards selfrealization, self-improvement, and willingness to help those around you better themselves.
CONT 09
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21
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Top Heart Healthy Foods
Video Games and Heart Health
Getting to Know Atrial Fibrillation with Dr. Saima Karim
Vapes that Include Nicotine May Create a Higher Risk for Blood Clots
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5 Ways Romantic Relationships Impact Your Health
A Heart and Passion for Patient Care: An Interview with Dr. Shaghayegh Tavassoli
ENTS Your heart is one of the most important muscles to strengthen. pg 63
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51
59
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Could Your Period be an Indicator of Your Heart Health?
Alcohol & Heart Health
A Higher Intake of Whole Grain Could Reduce Cardiovascular Problems
Exercises to Strengthen Your Heart
Top HeartHealthy Foods WORDS BY ADREANA MENDEZ
Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 138
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D
o you ever find yourself struggling to decide what to eat? It can be challenging, especially when striving to make healthier decisions. Some foods also benefit different parts of your body more than others. For example, your heart benefits from various foods: green
leafy veggies, whole grains and fish, to name a few. Whether you’re looking for
something to munch on while watching television or hoping for something more substantial, here’s a list of the top heart-healthy foods and their benefits.
LEAFY GREEN VEGGIES
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Many of these vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Green veggies have vitamin K, which prevents blood clotting in the arteries. Doctors recommend eating vegetables like spinach and kale since they are high in nitrates, which studies have determined to reduce blood pressure and improve cell function in blood vessels. Green vegetables were shown to lower your risk of heart disease, with studies showing a 16% decrease of heart disease the higher your leafy vegetable intake.
WHOLE GRAINS If you are a pasta fan, do not fear! You don’t have to stop eating pasta in order to keep your heart healthy; switch to whole grain pasta! Whole grains, such as farro, quinoa and barley, are a great source of fiber and help regulate blood pressure. Fiber reduces LDL, which is the bad cholesterol that leads to heart complications. Many studies show that eating three more daily servings of whole grains was associated with a 22% lower risk of heart disease.
BERRIES These tasty fruits are full of antioxidants like anthocyanins, which protect against the oxidative stress and inflammation that cause heart disease. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries improve cell function in the blood vessels, decrease blood clotting and reduce LDL cholesterol. Berries are delicious snacks, and you can easily incorporate them into any dish. Throw them on top of some pancakes, granola, or just snack on them and reap the benefits!
FATTY FISH & FISH OIL Fish like salmon, mackerel and herring are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are healthy fats that decrease heart rhythm disorders and lower triglycerides and blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends about two servings of salmon or other fish rich in fats each week. If you can’t eat that much fish, try taking fish oil daily. It has the Omega-3 you need to decrease your risk of heart disease and keep your heart healthy!
NUTS Are you looking for something to snack on? Nuts are a great snack due to their nutritional value! They’re great sources of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats. Studies show that eating about 1.5 ounces of daily almonds can reduce belly fat. Walnuts are also full of fiber and magnesium, copper and manganese, and eating them reduces “bad” LDL cholesterol by up to 16% and lowers blood pressure. The bottom line is that nuts are both heart-healthy and delicious!
DARK CHOCOLATE Chocolate? You may be surprised, but dark chocolate is a healthy snack that can boost your heart health. Studies show that eating dark chocolate twice a week can have a 32% decrease in calcified plaque clotting arteries, while eating dark chocolate five times a week has a 57% decrease in heart disease. So if you were looking for another excuse for a sweet treat throughout the day, here’s a heart-healthy snack for you.
LEGUMES Beans, peas and lentils are filling foods that do not contain cholesterol, making them a heart-healthy choice. Legumes have folate, iron, antioxidants and magnesium, which help lower blood pressure, and are rich in fiber which decreases blood sugar levels and rids the body of toxins and cholesterol. Try beans paired with whole grain rice for your next delicious meal that will make your heart happy!
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A PARTING REMINDER Next time you walk into your kitchen uncertain about what to snack on, make a heart-healthy choice. Try to eat nuts, green leafy veggies, chocolate or berries when you want a snack. If you’re looking to make a meal, try to eat fish, beans and whole grains. These healthy choices will ensure a strong heart and a healthier version of you!
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VIDEO GAMES AND HEART HEALTH WORDS BY LUKE ARGUE
ideo games are becoming increasingly popular, to the point where video game consoles are now found in almost every household. However, you may not know that video gameplay can be hazardous to your heart health, depending on how much time video game addicts spend playing video games. As a result, playing too many video games can result in problems with obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Video Games Allow Sedentary Behavior Video games are one of the most popular forms of entertainment worldwide. They are enjoyed by people of all ages and have been around for decades. However, video games are not just a form of entertainment — they can also be addictive and have adverse effects on our health. One such effect is encouraging sedentary behavior. Video games lead to inactivity or sedentary behavior because they allow gamers to become sedentary as they do not require physical engagement. Gamers can sometimes play for hours on end, reducing their physical activity. According to the American Heart Association, such sedentary behavior is always harmful to you and increases the risk of death from all causes. Sedentary behavior has been linked with many health problems like obesity and heart disease.
Video Games and Obesity Obesity is a severe result of video games fostering inactive behavior in children and others. If this sedentary behavior is allowed to grow, the player may become obese over time. Because video games occupy a person’s time and attention, that person is less likely to go outside and engage in physical activity. Researchers have found that video games and TV could double a child’s risk for obesity. Furthermore, this increased risk for obesity creates a greater risk to the child’s heart health as children who develop obesity become at risk for heart conditions later in life.
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Video Games Can Trigger Heart Conditions Video games and heart health don’t just stop at obesity, though. Studies have also shown that video games can lead to heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) in young people. A study of three children from the ages of 10 to 15 found that pre-existing heart conditions could be triggered during intense video gaming. When a person plays video games for an extended time, the increased concentration and excitement can cause the heart rate to spike and irregular heartbeats to develop. This can be dangerous in children with underlying heart conditions and lead to cardiac arrest.
“When a person plays video games for an extended time, the increased concentration and excitement can cause the heart rate to spike and irregular heartbeats to develop.” Video Games Can Increase Blood Pressure In addition to heart arrhythmias, video games have also been linked with increased blood pressure levels. When a person plays video games for an extended time, that person’s heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, causing a dangerous increase in blood pressure and leading to heart attacks and strokes. According to a study from the National Library of Medicine, video games increase the systolic blood pressure and heart rate of young men. Due to this increase, it’s possible that playing video games could affect the future heart health of players.
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Tips for Parents to Keep Their Children’s Hearts Healthy While video games can negatively affect our health, video games do not have to be harmful if gamers take breaks throughout gaming sessions, engage in physical activity and monitor their video game playing habits. Video games and heart health have been linked for some time now, with obesity and heart arrhythmias being the most common conditions associated with video gaming. Obese children are more likely to develop heart conditions as adults, so parents should watch video game playtime and video game habits to ensure that video games don’t harm children’s hearts as they grow up. Here are some tips for parents to help keep their children hearts healthy:
• Limit gameplay time to no more than two hours a day. • Encourage your child to take breaks every hour and get up and move around. • Make sure your child engages in daily physical activity. • Have gaming sessions with your child and be involved in playing. • Discourage your child from playing video games if they have any underlying heart conditions.
A Parting Reminder Video games can have many adverse effects on our heart health. They can lead to obesity, inactivity, heart arrhythmias and increased blood pressure. While video games can be entertaining, it is essential to be mindful of their risks to our health. So gamers, please play video games responsibly.
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GETTING TO KNOW ATRIAL FIBRILLATION WITH DR. SAIMA KARIM WRITTEN BY YUKO TABASA
C
leveland native, Dr. Saima Karim, is a cardiologist and electrophysiologist practicing at the Cleveland Metro Health Center. She attended medical school at Ohio University and did her fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic.
When she’s not listening to irregular beating hearts, she
likes listening to harmonious symphonies at local recitals and playing
outdoor sports with her son.
What’s an Electrophysiologist and What Do They Do? Electrophysiology is a subspecialty of cardiology, which is defined as the internal medical specialty concerned with disorders of the heart. Electrophysiologists primarily focus on testing and treating problems that involve irregular heart rhythms, or what we call arrhythmias. “It’s [an electrophysiologist] someone who specializes in arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation,” Dr. Karim explains. She has been specializing in the atrial fibrillation study and treatment for five years already, as part of her career as an electrophysiologist in Ohio.
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What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation may also occur in patients who exercise excessively. One study found that young men and joggers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted that by 2030, around 12.3 million Americans will be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. Dr. Karim explains atrial fibrillation is an irregular rhythm that originates from the heart’s left or, in some instances, from its right chamber. Atrial fibrillation can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. Additionally,
the
irregular
rhythm
occurs in brief episodes, or it may be a permanent condition.
Who is at Risk? There is a broad range of medical conditions that may be comorbid with atrial fibrillation. According to Dr. Karim, individuals with existing alveolar diseases, thyroid diseases and cardiovascular diseases have a high chance of developing atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is often experienced during acute episodes of respiratory failure, which often need to be managed (Vahdatpour et al., 2020). Dr. Karim explains that acutely or critically ill patients with thyroid problems at the
the disease (Aizer et al., 2009). However, Dr. Karim reassures us that while atrial fibrillation may develop among athletes, they are less likely to get strokes compared to other patients.
How Does COVID-19 Affect Patients with Atrial Fibrillation? Respiratory illnesses have a high chance of developing arrhythmias. “A lot of people do develop it acutely when they’re in the hospital,” Dr. Karim says. “They may even have it at home and not know that they’re having symptoms.” If you suspect that you may have atrial fibrillation, consider looking for these symptoms: • Irregular heartbeat • Heart palpitations (rapid, fluttering, or pounding) • Lightheadedness • Extreme fatigue • Shortness of breath • Chest pain
hospital are likely to develop atrial
“The key is early recognition,” Dr. Karim
fibrillation. However, so are patients who
advises. “Making sure that we recognize
have recently undergone heart surgery.
the symptoms earlier, [and] try to address
Fortunately, some studies show that this
any risk of stroke that there is. It’s very
is preventable when utilizing appropriate
important.”
prophylactic therapy (Maisel et al., 2001). Other candidates for developing these conditions are patients who suffer from sleep apnea and individuals who have a previous related medical history in their family tree.
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have an increased risk of developing
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted that by 2030, around 12.3 million Americans will be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.”
The Future of Atrial Fibrillation Management
has mentioned atrial fibrillation ablation to be “reasonably good” and “successful, (...) especially in monitoring patients over the long term”. The treatment uses minor burns or freezes to cause some scarring
Dr. Karim was excited to share with Top Doctor Magazine the latest innovations in the management of atrial fibrillation. “What used to happen a lot of times when people had atrial fibrillation, we just used to control their rates and observe them and how they did over time,” Dr. Karim said. “But more and more literature is
coming
out
[regarding]
treating
patients that are symptomatic with atrial fibrillation earlier in life, [which] prevents them from having problems.” She explains that the latest technology can now eliminate atrial fibrillation, which has
on the inside of the heart to help break up the electrical signals that cause irregular heartbeats. However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The future of atrial fibrillation management and prevention has seen promising research and technological advancement. “The technology is evolving and we’re developing newer tools,” Dr. Karim said excitedly. “Compared to a decade ago, there has been a huge technological change. I predict that ten years from now, it’s going to look entirely different again.”
been beneficial for patients. Dr. Karim
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“The future of atrial fibrillation management and prevention has seen promising research and technological advancement.”
Current medical research and development have changed radically in the field of atrial fibrillation. With these new advancements, Dr. Karim is hopeful that the new treatments will address atrial fibrillation head-on. She advises, though, that prevention is still better than cure. Having a healthy balanced diet, quitting tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight and a moderate amount of exercise are the best ways to prevent atrial fibrillation from occurring early in your lifetime.
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Nicotine THAT I NC LU D E
M AY C REATE A HI GHER RI S K F O R BLO O D C LO TS W O R DS BY LO UI S A E M H O F
Vaping is often used as an alternative to traditional cigarette smoking or as an attempt to quit smoking entirely. Although it sometimes helps people quit smoking, vaping can be detrimental to your health. Recent studies show vapes that contain nicotine increase users’ risk of blood clots, hypertension and potentially strokes. Due to the negative impact of nicotine on the body, it may be more beneficial to stick with products proven to be effective at helping people quit without the added health risks.
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NICOTINE IN VAPES LEADS TO HEALTH RISKS Although vapes are marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking they have their own set of risks, especially when your vape includes nicotine. At a recent meeting of the European Respiratory Society International Congress, researchers presented their findings on the adverse health effects of nicotine-based vape products. The presented research showed nicotinebased products immediately increase users’ risk for the
HOW NICOTINE-BASED VAPE CAUSES BLOOD CLOTS Inhaling nicotine causes your body to release an over-
number of blood clots, among other health concerns.
abundance of the adrenaline hormone into your blood.
The researchers also found that the study’s subjects
or-flight” response and increases your heart rate, blood
saw an increase in heart rate and blood pressure and a decrease in the functionality of smaller blood vessels. The process of your blood flowing through your body unobstructed by constricted vessels or blood clots is essential to nearly every part of your health. The adverse health effects of vaping with nicotine products are similar to traditional smoking with cigarettes, destroying the belief that vaping is a healthier alternative to traditional smoking. In addition, the study did not find the adverse effects found on otherwise healthy participants using nicotine-based vape products in other healthy participants who vaped without nicotine. This led scientists to conclude nicotine in the vape directly causes the risk of increased blood clots.
Adrenaline makes your body activate its natural “fightpressure, and breathing. Blood clots form when nicotine is introduced to the bloodstream because nicotine changes the surface of the blood platelets (minuscule, disc-like components essential to blood clotting). Once nicotine’s influence has morphed these platelets’ structures, it is much easier for them to group together and cause blood clots. In addition, these clots are expedited by the damage that nicotine deals to the lining of blood vessels. Damaged vessels increase the likelihood of the formation of blood clots.
EFFECTS OF NICOTINE ON THE BODY Aside from the increased risk of blood clots, nicotine has various adverse effects on the human body. A comprehensive government-funded study compiled the results of nicotine use on the body to communicate the negative impact of nicotine-based vape products as well as traditional cigarettes. Nearly every part of the body can be affected, from the cardiovascular system to the reproductive system. The longer and more often nicotine is used, the worse the accompanying consequences.
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“BLOOD CLOTS FORM WHEN NICOTINE IS INTRODUCED TO THE BLOODSTREAM BECAUSE NICOTINE CHANGES THE SURFACE OF THE BLOOD PLATELETS.”
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Nicotine affects several organs and systems throughout
increased risk of heart failure, stroke, and kidney
the body. It creates a dependency on the chemical,
disease. The male and female reproductive systems are
which leads to nicotine addiction. Studies show nicotine
also affected by nicotine use, decreasing fertility and
dependence can even be passed down to children through
affecting hormone levels in both.
the maternal or grand maternal line. Additionally, studies have found nicotine is as addictive as cocaine or heroin. At the cellular level, nicotine can make changes to individual cells, creating a higher risk of cancer. Cancer is the proliferation of cells at an uncontrolled rate. When nicotine is introduced to the body, it can stimulate this increased rate of cell proliferation consistent with the early, formational stages of cancer. Your eyes can also be affected by nicotine. Nicotine promotes pathology in the retina as well as overall degeneration. Other effects of nicotine use include decreased effectiveness of your immune system and
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A PARTING REMINDER It is essential to be aware of the health risks that accompany vaping. Our team at Top Doctor Magazine hopes you will come away from this read with some refreshed knowledge on the risks of vape products that contain nicotine. Avoiding nicotine products can be one of the best ways to maintain or improve your health today. For more tips on living a healthy lifestyle, make sure to check out our lifestyle blog!
5 WAYS ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS IMPACT YOUR
HEALTH WORDS BY YUKO TABASA
e’re no strangers to love. You know the rules, and so do I! Rick Astley, with his famous “Never Gonna Give You Up,” was totally right. None of us are strangers to love.
2: ROMANTIC LOVE LOWERS HEART DISEASE RISK Couples
in
happy,
healthy,
loving
relationships have been observed to have
Whether it be giving love, receiving love
healthier hearts and a lower risk of heart
or making love, we’ve all been at a point
disease. As it turns out, being in love
where we are interested in another human
reduces our stress responses and allows
being enough to call it love.
us to enjoy the pleasures that life has to
From this feeling called love, romantic
offer more often.
relationships emerge and can influence our
Moreover, if you have a supportive and
lives in many ways. Let’s explore five ways
loving partner, you’re more likely to listen
romantic relationships can impact your
to them when they tell you to quit your bad
heart health.
habits like smoking and excessive drinking or when they tell you to take your medication
1: ROMANTIC LOVE IMPROVES BLOOD PRESSURE
or see the doctor. Having someone look out for your health will, of course, lower your risk for heart disease as well.
One of the most significant benefits of having a healthy romantic relationship is the whenever you’re with your significant other.
3: NATURAL CARDIO FROM BEING IN LOVE
Hormones such as oxytocin, endorphins
One of the best parts about having a
and vasopressin all flood your system.
significant other in your life is having your
These hormones, vasopressin especially,
heart pound or skip a beat whenever they
abundance of beneficial hormones you get
improve blood pressure, resulting in an
pass by or when you snuggle next to each
overall healthier circulatory system.
other after a long day. But did you know
When you have a healthy circulatory
excellent for your heart?
system, you can enjoy more out of life.
that the zap of electricity you feel is also
For instance, you can appreciate a less
Another fun way to keep your heart
restrictive diet and not feel bad about
pumping is getting intimate with your
getting dessert when you’re out on a
partner. Love-making with your significant
date with your significant other. You
other is incredibly healthy for your heart
can also enjoy vigorous activities like
because not only is it great cardio, but it
hiking outdoors without having trouble
also releases feel-good hormones like
catching your breath, which means
dopamine, adrenaline and norepinephrine
you and your partner can go on all the
afterward — all of which help your heart
adventures you want.
beat harder, faster and stronger. So go ahead and keep that heart rate up and the love meter high!
Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 138
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4: STRESSFUL RELATIONSHIPS ARE BAD FOR YOU
The immense emotional and mental
However, it isn’t all rainbows and
may eventually lead to heart failure.
butterflies
in
romantic
for the worst, it can cause stress for the parties involved. If this stress continues to accumulate over time, it can undeniably increase your risk for heart disease. Even small amounts of stress can trigger circulatory problems such as poor blood flow. In addition, prolonged exposure to stress and increased cortisol levels can increase the risk of strokes. A toxic relationship doesn’t only affect your mental and emotional health, but it affects your physical health as well. Remember to find a partner that will listen and communicate with you whenever turbulence hits your relationship.
5: BROKEN-HEART SYNDROME As corny as it may sound, the brokenheart syndrome is a real thing that can happen when a romantic relationship ends on a gigantically negative note. Broken-heart syndrome, or medically known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy, can occur when an individual undergoes a sudden shock or acute anxiety. The mental and emotional stress of having one’s heart broken can affect one in a
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it difficult for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. A severe case of this
relationships.
When romantic relationships take a turn
dangerously physical way.
stress can result in this disease, making
“Couples in happy, healthy, loving relationships have been observed to have healthier hearts and a lower risk of heart disease.” So maybe romance and your physical heart do involve each other after all! Taking care of your heart does not always mean just exercise and physical activity, but rather taking care of it emotionally as well. Romantic love impacts your heart health just as much as exercise, so be sure to take care of your emotional well-being this love season!
A A HEART AND PASSION
FOR PATIENT CARE: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. SHAGHAYEGH TAVASSOLI WORD S BY IONUȚ RAIC E A
A heart and passion for patient care — these are often
And she meant it. Between her current work at the UMMA
repeated, trite words bound to be a part of every
Community Clinic and raising five children, Dr. Tavassoli
doctor’s creed. But when backed by a staunch belief
could make even Hercules and his 12 labors seem small.
in one’s mission, they become an endless reservoir of
And, to make it more challenging, she’s excited to welcome
determination, resilience and dedication. Mix all of these
the New Year by starting her own private practice!
ingredients and not just a superhero, but a supermom will rise, ready to achieve excellence on all fronts.
“I’m one of those people who, if you tell me something’s
Dr. Tavassoli works in the patient care field, with an
emphasis in mostly family medicine and Federally
Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Her job has painted a
not possible, I’m very motivated to make it possible,” Dr.
troubling portrait of the relationship between medicine
Shaghayegh Tavassoli, a Family Medicine Specialist in
and uninsured or underinsured patients, which
Los Angeles, California, shared.
emphasizes the irony of how the former are more likely to receive medical care than the latter.
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“I prefer preventative medicine. I strive to keep my patients healthy so that we avoid any long-term diseases for as long as possible. I’m there to coordinate everything and reach out to the specialists to piece together the entire patient’s profile like a puzzle. I am the patient’s medical home,” - D R . S H A G H AY E G H T AVA S S O L I
AN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER, BUT IN MEDICINE Dr. Tavassoli turned her passion for medicine into a career path in the blink of an eye. From playing nurse with dolls, she exchanged a lively interest for a journey into family medicine. “I realized that in family medicine, you can do a little bit of everything, and you can take it pretty much as far as you want; you can see pediatrics, you can see geriatrics, you can even deliver babies,” she explained. But the key factor behind Dr. Tavassoli’s choice resides in her usage of family medicine as a holistic approach towards patient care. “I prefer preventative medicine. I strive to
“You take a car in for oil changes to make sure everything’s running and working smoothly, but we don’t do that for our own bodies,” she said. Instead of taking our bodies to the doctor for an annual tune-up, we allow factors such as stress, poor sleeping habits and anxiety to wreak havoc and cause medical issues in our bodies without our knowledge. High-stress levels in our early years can turn into chronic health conditions as adults. “As stress levels go up, your body makes more stress-related hormones like cortisol. And this increases your blood sugar, you won’t be sleeping well and your blood pressure can go up. A whole myriad of things can go wrong. But if you come in for a physical, we can have a conversation and, if needed, I can refer you to a behavioral health specialist to teach you
keep my patients healthy so that we avoid any
how to keep that stress under control instead
long-term diseases for as long as possible. I’m
of waiting for it to just wreak havoc on your
there to coordinate everything and reach out
body,” she explained.
to the specialists to piece together the entire patient’s profile like a puzzle. I am the patient’s medical home,” Dr. Tavassoli said.
CARING FOR OUR CARS MORE THAN OUR BODIES Although medical issues take their time creeping up on our bodies, only a handful of people understand the value of preventative care. And it’s enough to look at the timing of our visits to the doctor to notice this
Unfortunately, as Dr. Tavassoli remarked, being insured is no longer enough to keep an eye on your health. Often, underinsured or uninsured patients, who don’t qualify for specific treatments, steer clear of medical bills, thus hindering preventative care right off the bat. So, is there a solution for such patients? Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) utilize outstanding efforts and resources to serve the underserved.
concerning behavior. More often than not, patients skip annual visits, only to show up at the doctor’s office when the damage has already been done.
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WORKING IN A FEDERALLY QUALIFIED HEALTH CENTER The Health Resources & Services Administration defines FQHCs as “community-based health care providers that receive funds from the HRSA Health Center Program to provide primary care services in underserved areas.” Such centers allow Dr. Tavassoli and her peers to treat patients from low-income areas (who frequently cannot afford comprehensive insurance plans) and receive equal treatment without discrimination. “Regardless of what their insurance is, or even if they don’t have insurance, all
to her instincts and conduct a thorough investigation on his cardiac health. “We did an immediate EKG on him; he was in complete heart block. So we immediately sent him to the emergency room, and they took him to the OR that same day and put a pacemaker in. This was all within a matter of hours. When he came back, he said, ‘You literally saved my life,’” Dr. Tavassoli joyfully
“Regardless of what their insurance is, or even if they don’t have insurance, all patients get the same treatment from me. I give them the same attention and try to give them the same care that I would for any other patient.”
patients get the
- D R . S H A G H AY E G H
same treatment
T AVA S S O L I
from me. I give them the same attention and try to give them the same care that I would for any other patient,” Dr. Tavassoli said. Going to an FQHC becomes vital for people who cannot afford insurance. Dr. Tavassoli shared a story of a patient who could not seek treatment for his cardiac issues after having lost his insurance. Entering her office for a physical turned out to be a lifesaver for this patient. “I noticed that his heart rate was very, very low, very, very low. And I said, ‘Have you had any heart issues?’ And he said, ‘Yes, I had a cardiopulmonary arrest,’” she explained.
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Luckily, Dr. Tavassoli was quick to listen
recalled. Even as she’s busy starting her own practice, Dr. Tavassoli finds enough time to dedicate to her FQHC patients. Such are the bonds between her and these underserved patients, whose honest gratitude is Dr. Tavassoli’s only reward, that she cannot let go of them.
“I’m still keeping two half-days at the clinic because I can’t walk away from those patients,” Dr. Tavassoli confessed.
“NOT IN IT FOR THE MONEY” Patient care does not only focus on the present but also tends towards the future. For that reason, Dr. Tavassoli’s new practice will serve both as a center for excellence in family medicine and as a starting point for her children who are already showing interest in their supermom’s mission.
Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 138
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MUCH MORE THAN SIMPLY TREATMENT DEDICATED FAMILY MEDICINE IN LOS ANGELES, CA With every patient that walks into the Beverly Hills Medical Institute, Dr. Shaghayegh Tavassoli’s primary goal is to build a relationship that will last a lifetime. Her services are strategically centered around comprehensively treating the individual, not just the symptoms.
• PATIENTS LOVE THE GENTLE APPROACH AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL • CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR THE CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER • CURATED INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT PLANS JUST FOR YOU!
Learn more
(310) 688-8080
“It’s harder and harder to start your own practice and have someone to guide you along the way. If any of my children want to go into the medical field, I can be there for them with the up and running office,” she said.
A PARTING REMINDER Sacrificial
stories
commitment,
from
selflessness
doctors and
of
humility
are the ones that encourage others the most. Thankfully, there are doctors like
Such selfless work, both in and outside the
Dr. Tavassoli, who teach us how everyone
office, expects only a grateful “thank you” in
deserves the same patient care, regardless of
return, which is a testimony to Dr. Tavassoli’s
circumstances! For more information about
compassion and humility.
Dr. Tavassoli and her mission, please visit her
“People randomly show up to my house or call
website by scanning the QR code below.
me with medical issues, and I’m okay with that. I encourage my friends to come, and if I can help, then I will do it. I’m definitely not in it for the money,” she said.
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WORDS BY ADREANA MENDEZ
ARE YOU HAVING PERIOD STRUGGLES?
M
aybe you find yourself sitting in bed in agony, wondering why your cramps hurt so badly. Or
perhaps you wonder why your periods have been so irregular. Rest assured that these thoughts are not just confined to you.
Women worldwide have period struggles. Your period pains may offer a look into what’s going on in your body, specifically as it relates to heart health.
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WHAT DOES YOUR PERIOD HAVE TO DO WITH YOUR HEART HEALTH?
Some other signs of heart disease occur when women have increased chest pains during their periods. One medical journal reported that women with less
Your period can indicate how healthy your heart is. Having regular periods is a sign of good overall health. Irregular periods, heavy periods or severe cramps can be due to hormonal disturbances, stress, weight gain or under-eating, unhealthy lifestyle practices or a combination of all. Long and irregular cycles are linked to heart issues like cardiovascular disease. Period issues are not uncommon, but regardless,
they
should
be
treated
urgently. Irregular periods signal that not everything may be right in the body. For example, they can be caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome, otherwise known as PCOS. While PCOS is primarily due to hormonal issues such as excess male hormone levels in women, there seems to be a correlation between PCOS and a sedentary lifestyle and hypertension. Many studies show that when women miss menstrual cycles due to low estrogen levels, their blood vessel function is low. This is an early sign of heart disease. Estrogen has long been known to be essential for protecting a woman’s heart and is continually being studied. Still, researchers believe this can provide insight into how menstrual imbalances can negatively impact younger women’s
estrogen circulating in their bloodstream often have low blood flow to the heart. A clinical study conducted by the Oregon Health and Science University sought to determine why a regular menstrual cycle is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The researchers determined that the estradiol and progesterone hormones, common to periods and the normal processes in the follicle, are related to “good” and “bad” cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Some studies have also found correlations between the age women had their first period and their risk for heart disease. One study found that women who had their first period around age 13 had: • 27% more hospitalizations or deaths due to heart disease; • 16% more hospitalizations or deaths from stroke; and • 20% more hospitalizations with high blood pressure or deaths due to complications. Additionally, studies found that women whose cycle increased in length two years before their final menstrual period were healthier after menopause.
cardiac health.
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47
Ensure exercising, eating well and resting to provide better care for yourself, and it will show in the often painful but beneficial period.
WHAT TO DO TO HELP YOUR HEART?
A PARTING REMINDER
If you are concerned about your period
period, make sure to alert your doctor.
and want to secure your heart health, and your menstrual health, there are several things you can do. First,
exercise
frequently!
Research
shows that performing aerobic exercises, resistance training and stretches several times each week can decrease heart complications. Second, remember to eat healthy foods! Foods such as nuts, green leafy veggies, chocolate, berries, fish, beans and whole grains provide Omega-3 oils and other vitamins that decrease cardiovascular issues. Remember to talk to your doctor if you want further information on the best approach to keeping your heart healthy.
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If you notice anything odd about your While not all period issues are signs of more significant health issues, any issues you might have can be quite telling of your overall health — especially your heart’s health. As research shows, the more frequent your periods are, the lower the risk is for heart disease. Ensure exercising, eating well and resting to provide better care for yourself, and it will show in the often painful but beneficial period.
WHOLE A H I G H E R I N TA K E O F
GRAIN COULD REDUCE C A R D I OVA S C U L A R PROBLEMS BY NATHAN PIPKIN
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51
I
f you found out that there was a simple way to fight against the world’s leading cause of death simply by changing your diet, would you do it? Recent research indicates that people who eat more whole
grains have a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Read on if you’d like to find out how such a small dietary change can lead to a better quality of life!
AM I AT RISK FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE? Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally. The term “cardiovascular disease” covers numerous medical issues that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease, congenital heart disease, irregular heart rhythm and heart attacks. While cardiovascular illnesses accounted for 32% of global deaths in 2019, it is equally important to note that lifestyle changes can prevent most of these issues! We should also recognize that cardiovascular disease affects all groups of people, no matter their race. It’s a risk for almost half of Americans, with some statistics suggesting that 45% will have at least one heart diseaserelated issue in 2035. Nor does heart disease discriminate based on gender as it continues to be the leading cause of death for both men and women. Aside from the whole grain question, which we’ll discuss shortly, there are five primary risk factors that we should look out for. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are the first two. Smoking, the third, is controllable and avoidable with healthy lifestyle decisions. Other dangers include obesity and physical inactivity. Finally, heart disease is also a greater concern for individuals with diabetes, but proper management of glucose levels can mitigate this risk.
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HOW SHOULD I CHANGE MY DIET? Adding whole grains to your diet is a big way to fight against cardiovascular disease. To be more specific, the study from the Journal of Nutrition found that three servings of whole grains per day provided the maximum benefit. Individuals who ate that amount of whole grains saw healthier waist size, blood pressure and blood sugar. Why? Because whole grains contain fiber and heart-healthy nutrients, which are eliminated when grains are refined. In the words of Dr. Caleigh Sawicki, who contributed to the Journal of Nutrition study, there are multiple elements of whole grains that contribute to our health. “The presence of dietary fiber in whole grains can have a satiating effect, and the magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants may contribute to lowering blood pressure. Soluble fiber, in particular, may have a beneficial effect on post-meal blood sugar spikes,” she says. What can we do with this research? First, we have to know what whole grains to look for to plan grocery lists, so here’s a shortlist of grain products to choose from: whole-wheat flour, 100% whole-grain bread, highfiber cereal, oatmeal, and whole-grain pasta. The least healthy grain products include white bread, biscuits, egg noodles, and buttered popcorn. Another great way to improve your diet is to control your portion size. It sounds obvious at first, but in day-today life, it can be hard to remember that taking seconds, using large plates, or eating until you feel full are all ways to accidentally overeat. If you check serving sizes and use smaller plates, consuming the right amount of food will become very easy.
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The last piece of nutrition advice we’ll leave you with that will also be beneficial in fighting cardiovascular disease is choosing low-fat protein sources! Knowing what types of protein to look for can make a world of difference to your physical health. The most beneficial options include eggs, fish, skinless poultry and soy products. Items you should limit or avoid include sausage, bacon, breaded meats, and full-fat milk.
A PARTING REMINDER Many of these dietary and lifestyle changes will be difficult for some, but we all owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to take responsibility for our health. If you’re at risk for cardiovascular disease, take a moment to ask yourself, ‘How can I integrate healthy portions, more whole grains, and more healthy protein into my diet?’ Carefully planning out your grocery lists for each shopping trip and paying attention to your portions at each meal will make a huge difference when it comes to taking care of yourself properly.
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ALCOHOL & HEART HEALTH HOW MUCH DOES IT ACTUALLY AFFECT YOUR HEART? WORDS BY LUKE ARGUE
S
pecial events like birthdays, holidays, graduations and other celebrations are often met with alcohol consumption. Many even believe that some of this may be good for the heart. You may have heard the saying, “A glass
of wine a day keeps the doctor away.” This saying refers to the perceived health benefits of drinking alcohol,
especially red wine. Alcohol consumption is typical in our society. Indeed, most people consume at least a little alcohol throughout the year, especially around the holidays and special events and celebrations. However, are the health benefits of alcohol just an urban myth, or are they based on science?
BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH ALCOHOL The common wisdom of alcohol’s health benefits may not be entirely misplaced. Alcohol has some association with improved health. According to Harvard Health, alcohol can increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, which keeps LDL (bad) cholesterol from clogging arteries by moving it to the liver, where it’s broken down and removed from the body. Thus, some alcohol consumption may protect against harmful cholesterol levels. In this way, alcohol can improve heart health by preventing the clogging of arteries. However, there is much more to alcohol’s association with good cholesterol than meets the eye.
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DOUBTS SURROUNDING ALCOHOL’S HEART BENEFITS The association between alcohol and a healthier heart is doubtful. While some studies have indicated an association between alcohol and health benefits, some of these effects might be related to the lifestyles of the people involved in the studies. According to Heart&Stroke, area of residence, education level and income heavily influence our health. So while some studies have associated alcohol with good cholesterol, that likely tells us more about what kind of people experienced the benefits from drinking alcohol. Furthermore, while red wine may contain antioxidants and flavonoids that can reduce the risk of heart disease, the American Heart Association noted that they could also be found in grapes and blueberries. Indeed, the positive effects of alcohol are much better attained through safer living habits such as a controlled diet and regular exercise, which allow one to experience alcohol’s benefits without its risks.
DANGERS OF DRINKING Regular alcohol consumption can have many adverse effects on your heart’s health. These negative effects are hazardous with excessive drinking. Excessive drinking is defined as binge drinking, i.e., consuming four to five drinks on any occasion, or heavy drinking, which is 8 drinks a week for a woman and 15 for a man. Such drinking can be extremely dangerous. As the CDC notes, excessive drinking can lead to stroke, cancer, liver disease, heart disease and high blood pressure in the long run. You are also at risk of violent episodes, poisonings and other injuries in the short run. Thus, whether it’s spread over a week or contained to a single evening, excessive drinking can very seriously harm one’s heart health.
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“As noted by Harvard Health, a 2018 study observed the drinking habits of almost 600,000 people without heart disease, and found that people who had 10 or more drinks per week died one to two years earlier compared with those who drank five drinks or fewer per week.”
If this doesn’t convince you that alcohol can harm
However, for those that already partake in alcohol
your heart, how about the effects of alcohol on our
consumption, the CDC recommends that men limit
life expectancy?
themselves to two drinks a day, and women limit
As noted by Harvard Health, a 2018 study observed the drinking habits of almost 600,000 people without heart disease, and found that people who had 10 or more drinks per week died one to two years earlier compared with those who drank five drinks or fewer per week. The study also found that having 18 drinks or more per week cut life expectancy by four to five years. So while alcohol may have some potential health benefits, the risks incurred by frequent consumption outweigh them.
HOW TO DRINK SAFELY Is there a way to safely consume alcohol, or are we forced to abstain entirely from it? The answer
themselves to one. But the CDC’s biggest tip for safe and moderate drinking is remembering that more rather than less alcohol consumption is always worse for your health.
A PARTING REMINDER In summary, the wisdom surrounding alcohol’s health benefits for your heart is more of an urban myth than science. While some studies have shown an association between alcohol consumption and better cholesterol, such benefits can be gained without taking the risk that alcohol consumption brings. The best way to protect your heart is to abstain from alcohol or very carefully limit its consumption.
may not be what some hope, but the CDC has clear guidelines on alcohol consumption. The CDC recommends that those who are not currently drinking should refrain from drinking.
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EXERCISES TO STRENGTHEN
YOUR HEART
Y
WORDS BY ADREANA MENDEZ
ou find yourself wanting to exercise, but you don’t know which exercises benefit
each part of your body. We can fix that.
Your heart is one of the most important muscles to strengthen, but it can be hard to know where to start.
Johns Hopkins exercise physiologist Kerry J. Stewart, Ed.D says, “Aerobic
exercise and resistance training are the most important for heart health.”
We have some tips and tricks to help you learn about the benefits of
strengthening your heart and the tricks
for performing these different exercises.
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WHAT IF I DON’T EXERCISE?
AEROBIC EXERCISES
Regularly exercising your heart can reduce health
These exercises improve circulation. Some simple
complications. Your heart is a muscle that needs to
aerobic exercises you can perform to get that heart
be constantly strengthened against potential health
pumping include swimming, running and walking.
issues. Heart disease, type two diabetes and cancer
Many doctors suggest performing these activities for at
are just a few harmful consequences of a sedentary
least 30 minutes each day to increase your heart rate.
lifestyle. Staying heart-healthy by exercising and eating healthy foods can reduce your risk for heart complications.
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SWIMMING This is a great exercise to perform if you want to do something less tiring than running and still increase your heart rate. Studies show that swimming can reduce coronary heart disease in women by 30 to 40%. Swimming also reduces the risk of diabetes. Just swimming for about 30 minutes three times each week can burn approximately 900 calories, reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes by 10%. The best swimming exercises include breaststroke, freestyle and butterfly stroke.
RUNNING Running is a fabulous way to get your heart pumping! Before running, start with some simple stretches and then walk to warm up. If you’re a rookie runner, alternate between walking and jogging. Make sure to drink plenty of water when exercising, so take a water bottle with you if you can. To run correctly, make sure you stand up tall, engage your core and glutes, swing your arms and step lightly. Remember to take deep breaths, so you don’t grow exhausted quickly. Once you find your rhythm, you’ll be running like a pro and taking care of your heart while you’re at it!
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WALKING It’s a simple activity you can do every day! You can walk at a normal pace or try speed walking, which is a great way to increase your heart rate. Just buy a good pair of shoes to support your weight, and you’re ready! To make walking even more fun, you can listen to some music, get lost in thought, admire the scenery (whether inside or outside) or listen to a podcast.
“Studies show that swimming can reduce coronary heart disease in women by 30 to 40%.”
RESISTANCE TRAINING This keeps your heart healthy and keeps your weight under control. Resistance training helps reduce body fat, a risk factor for heart disease. In addition, studies indicate that combining aerobic exercise and resistance work may help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
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WEIGHT TRAINING A general rule of thumb is exercising for at least two nonconsecutive days per week. Try working out with free weights (such as hand weights, dumbbells or barbells), weight machines or resistance bands. Other exercises include pushups, squats and chin-ups.
“A general rule of thumb is exercising for at least two nonconsecutive days per week.” STRETCHING Stretching is another simple exercise that can be done everywhere, depending on the stretch. While it doesn’t directly boost your heart, stretching is vital to the other exercises that maintain heart health and help build your musculoskeletal foundation. Stretching before and after exercise ensures you aren’t pulling any muscles or straining any parts of your body. It’s also excellent for cooling down after a particularly intense workout. Imagine weight training and aerobic exercise in one day! Your muscles will surely need a good stretch after that! Hamstring stretches and lunges are great places to start.
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A PARTING REMINDER Your heart is a crucial muscle that needs to be constantly exercised. If you want to decrease the risk for any diseases or disorders associated with the heart, try to perform aerobic exercises, resistance training and stretches several times each week. Have fun pumping your heart!
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“If the home is a body, the table is the heart, the beating center, the sustainer of life and health.” - SHAUNA NIEQUIST
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