Heart Health: Rethinking Healthcare

By James M. Flynn, MD, FACC, FSCAI
Cardiovascular Specialists of New England

We live in an era of unprecedented prosperity and abundance, yet our society faces a paradox: despite spending trillions of dollars on healthcare, we are witnessing declining life expectancy, rising obesity rates, and worsening overall well-being— both mental and physical. No civilization in history has invested as much in health, yet the outcomes remain disappointingly mediocre. This raises an important question: Is there a beמּer way forward? The answer is both clear and simpler than many realize.

If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, or a strong family history of heart problems, you are at higher risk for serious heart events. The good news is that healthy lifestyle changes— like eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress, geמּing enough sleep, and avoiding tobacco—can lower your risk, improve your health, and help you feel your best. Even small steps can make a big difference.

WHAT IS LIFESTYLE MEDICINE

Lifestyle medicine is a powerful, evidence- based approach to preventing, treating, and even reversing heart disease and other chronic conditions. It is centered on six key pillars that work together to optimize your health.

THE 6 PILLARS OF LIFESTYLE MEDICINE

1. Whole-Food, Plant-Predominant Nutrition: Emphasizes eating mostly minimally processed, plant-based foods— fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds—to support heart and overall health.

2. Physical Activity: Encourages regular movement, such as walking, cycling, or structured exercise, tailored to your abilities and goals.

3. Restorative Sleep: Focuses on achieving 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to recover and function optimally.

4. Stress Management: Teaches practical techniques—like mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises—to reduce the harmful effects of chronic stress.

5. Avoidance of Risky Substances: Supports minimizing or eliminating tobacco, excessive alcohol, and other substances that can harm your health.

6. Positive Social Connections: Promotes building and maintaining supportive relationships, which are vital for emotional and physical well-being.

Led by a Team of Experts

Your care team may include doctors, dietitians, and wellness coaches, all working together to guide you through these six pillars.

What to Expect:

• 1-on-1 visits with lifestyle experts
• Personalized food and exercise plans • Group classes and online support
• Simple, trackable goals each week

Your Care Team
• Doctor: Oversees your medical progress • Dietitian: Helps you eat for your heart
• Coach: Keeps you motivated and on track • Behavioral Support: Assists with stress and sleep management

SUCCESS STORIES
• “I lost 20 pounds and came off 2 meds.”
• “I feel beמּer than I have in years.”
• “This program gave me my life back.”

READY TO BEGIN?

Talk to your cardiologist or care team today. We’ll help you set your goals and get started. You’re not alone—we’ll do this together.

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT WWW.CSOFNE.COM OR CALL US AT (800) 639-8480

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