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Tag: Heart Health

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Advanced Heart Risk Predictor: Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring

Coronary artery calcium scoring is a medical test used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Calcium buildup in the arteries is a sign of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries and can cause heart disease.

Coronary artery calcium scoring is an important tool for identifying individuals who are at risk for heart disease. The test can help us doctors predict the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke and determine the best course of treatment. By detecting calcium buildup in the arteries, we can assess the severity of atherosclerosis and develop a plan to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

The test typically involves a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart and arteries. The CT scan takes images of the heart and arteries, which are then used to calculate the calcium score. The calcium score is a measure of the amount of calcium in the arteries and can range from 0 to over 400. The results of coronary artery calcium scoring can help us determine the risk of heart disease. A score of 0 indicates no detectable calcium, while a score of 1-100 indicates minimal calcium buildup. Scores above 100 indicate more significant calcium buildup and a higher risk of heart disease.

Coronary artery calcium scoring is an important tool for identifying individuals who are at risk for heart disease. By detecting calcium buildup in the arteries, we can assess the severity of atherosclerosis and develop a plan to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. The test can also help identify individuals who may benefit from preventive measures, such as lifestyle changes or medication, to reduce their risk of heart disease.

Think of coronary artery calcium scoring like a snapshot of your heart’s health.

It helps us see if there’s any buildup of calcium in your arteries, which can increase your risk of heart disease. By detecting calcium buildup early, we can help you take steps to reduce your risk and prevent cardiovascular events.

Here at Carolina Total Wellness we can order this scan for you alongside other markers to determine your risk of coronary artery disease.

If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and family history of heart disease or you are just interested in getting a scan, seek out one of our providers to get started on mitigating your risk of heart disease.

To schedule an appointment with one of our certified Functional Medicine Physicians, please give us a call. We are excited to partner with you on your journey to optimize your health and wellness through personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

919.999.0831

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LENTILS “THE POOR MAN’S MEAT”

Didem Miraloglu, MD, MS



 Lentils are known to be one of the most nutritious plant based proteins. Lentils date back to 8000 B.C where it was found on the banks of the Euphrates River, what is now northern Syria. There are many different preparation of lentils throughout the Middle East as well as the rest of the world. Each region adds part of its heritage where the lentil meal becomes richer and more flavorful.  Lentils are part of the legume family. Most of world’s lentil production comes from India and Canada. Lentils can lower cholesterol, and protect against diabetes and colon cancer. They are known as “Poor Man’s Meat”, since they are rich in nutrients and low in price. 1 cup of lentils provides 16 grams of fiber, 18 grams of protein, 38 mg Calcium, 40 grams of carbohydrates, 6.6 grams of iron , 71 mg of Magnesium and 0 gram fat. Since they are high in net carbs, they need to be avoided in a strict keto diet. With their low glycemic index, they are a good nutritional source for diabetics. There are brown,  green and red lentils. There are also those that are in between these colors. Here is one kind of Turkish recipe for red lentil soup. 

TURKISH RED LENTIL SOUP
 
INGREDIENTS:
 
2 cups red lentils
6-7 cups vegetable or meat stock
1 medium onion
1 medium carrot
1 tablespoon pepper/tomato paste
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon pepper flakes
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried mint
Salt to taste
Lemon juice
 
Wash the lentils and place in a pot. Slice the onions and carrots into small pieces and place in the pot with lentils.  Add stock and cook on medium heat until it boils. When it starts to boil add the paste and continue to cook for another 30-40minutes on low heat. Once all the ingredients are well cooked, use a hand blender to homogenize the soup.
 
Melt the butter or ghee in a small skillet, then add mint and pepper flakes. Stir for a minute then add to the soup and boil it for another 2 minutes. Add salt to taste. It is now ready to be served with lemon juice. Afiyet olsun!
 

Contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our Health Coaches to learn more about healing with foods that can help you along in your journey to optimal health. 
 
Your Partner in Health!
Didem Miraloglu, MD, MS

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