Blog Articles

The Link Between Oral Estrogen Therapy and High Blood Pressure: A Closer Look

Hormone therapy has long been a point of discussion and debate among healthcare professionals, especially in the context of managing menopausal symptoms. A recent study published suggests a link between oral estrogen therapy and an increased risk of HBP.

Dec 2nd, 2023

The Mediterranean Diet: A Key to Trimming Belly Fat?

The endless quest to find an effective method to reduce stubborn belly fat has always been a subject of interest among health enthusiasts and professionals. From rigorous exercise routines to various diets, the journey to eliminate visceral fat

Nov 22nd, 2023

Not So Nutty: How Tree Nuts Could Be the Key to Heart Health

Recently, a meticulous evaluation of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2011 and 2018 has illuminated a promising association: regular tree nut consumption may play a role in decreasing the risk of CVD.

Nov 13th, 2023

5 Heart-Healthy Ways to Enjoy the Holidays

It’s tempting to put aside the goal of maintaining a heart-healthy life amidst all the delightful chaos that marks the holiday season. But you can indulge in holiday fun, flavor, and celebration without sacrificing your heart.

Nov 7th, 2023

Step by Step: The Link Between Daily Steps and Cardiovascular Health

The connection between physical activity and cardiovascular health is well-established. Yet, the precise metrics of how much activity can make a significant difference in our health have often been the subject of inquiry.

Oct 29th, 2023

Getting Better Sleep - A Helpful Article

Whether you’re ready to go when the sun rises or energized late into the night, making sure you’re getting adequate sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle. And one of the keys to feeling more refreshed may just lie in accepting that you have a natural

Oct 19th, 2023

Water, Water Everywhere

Did you know that about 20% of our body’s water needs comes from food? Fresh fruits and vegetables are particularly high in water content.

Oct 11th, 2023

Statins and Bone Health: A New Perspective on Osteoporotic Fracture Prevention

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and increased susceptibility to fractures, is a significant concern for adults aged 60 and over.

Oct 3rd, 2023

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Frequent Chest Pain

Chest pain does not always signal a life-threatening emergency, but it could. Learn more about the causes of chest pain and why it’s something you should never ignore. 

Oct 1st, 2023

Alcohol and Heart Health: The Unseen Impact of Heavy Drinking on Our Vital Organs

In recent years, the potential health risks of excessive alcohol consumption have taken center stage in medical research. A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has added a new dimension to this discourse.

Sep 20th, 2023

Leaping Towards Cancer Prevention: Cardiorespiratory Fitness Lowers Risk of 9 Types of Cancer

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and understanding ways to prevent it has never been more vital. A groundbreaking new study has shed light on a potent weapon in the fight against cancer: cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

Sep 15th, 2023

A Silent Threat: How Prediabetes Increases Risk of Heart Failure, Stroke, and Other Conditions

A comprehensive new study published in The Lancet Regional Health on August 9, authored by Christopher Rentsch, Victoria Garfield, and colleagues, has drawn significant attention to a medical condition that's often overlooked: prediabetes.

Sep 7th, 2023

Heart Problems That Can Cause Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of many ailments, from a viral respiratory infection to a blood clot in the lungs. But it’s also a common symptom of many conditions that affect the heart. Keep reading to learn more.

Sep 1st, 2023

Alcohol & Blood Pressure: Unraveling The Relationship Using Dose-Response Meta Analysis

Recently, a study published in the American Heart Association (AHA) Journal has provided further clarity on this matter, utilizing a dose-response meta-analysis of non-experimental cohort studies.

Aug 30th, 2023

New Study: The "Weekend Warrior" Lifestyle Can Help Boost Cardiovascular Health

A recent study published in JAMA has given new depth to our understanding of the relationship between physical activity patterns and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study focused on the so-called "Weekend Warriors."

Aug 7th, 2023

Steps to Lower Your Heart Attack Risk

You can’t always prevent a heart attack, nor can you change some risk factors, such as age or family history. But there is much you can do to limit your risks at any age, regardless of your family history. And it may be easier than you think.

Aug 1st, 2023

Frail Patients Also Benefit From Intensive Blood Pressure Lowering: SPRINT Analysis

A recent study has shed light on the benefits of intensive blood pressure lowering in frail patients. The analysis, based on the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT), challenges the notion that aggressive BP control is not suitable for some.

Jul 31st, 2023

New Study: Adderall and Ritalin Are Decreasing Productivity In People Without ADHD

In recent years, the use of prescription stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin, has become increasingly prevalent. Originally designed to help individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) manage their symptoms, these drugs

Jul 18th, 2023

Unraveling the Link Between Red Meat, CVD & Diabetes

Diet plays a crucial role in our overall health, and numerous studies have investigated the relationship between various food groups and the risk of developing chronic diseases. In a groundbreaking new study, conducted by the American College of Cardiology

Jul 8th, 2023

Common Misconceptions About Hypertension 

Do you feel like you’re too young to worry about hypertension? Or are you convinced that medication is the only way to normalize your blood pressure? Read more about these and other common misconceptions about hypertension.

Jul 1st, 2023

New Research Suggests Low-Fat & Low-Carbo Diets Lower Risks for All Cardio-Mortality

In recent years, the debate surrounding the most effective dietary approaches for optimal health has been intense. Amidst this ongoing discussion, new research has emerged that suggests low-fat and low-carbohydrate diets may offer significant benefits.

Jun 15th, 2023

When to Worry About Heart Palpitations

Most people feel an unexpected heart thump or flutter now and then. These are heart palpitations, and most are innocent. But there are times when heart palpitations need a doctor’s attention. Keep reading for more details.

Jun 1st, 2023

Unveiling the Link: Marijuana Use and Increased Risk of Peripheral Artery Disease

As research into the effects of marijuana continues to expand, a groundbreaking new study, presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions, has shed light on a concerning association between marijua

May 29th, 2023

How to Know if a Heart Murmur Is Dangerous

Heart murmurs are relatively common. Many are harmless, especially those discovered in childhood. But only a doctor can determine if that unusual swishing sound heard via a stethoscope signals a problem with your heart.

May 22nd, 2023

Exercise Lowers CVD Risk For Those With HBP

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death globally, and hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a major risk factor for CVD. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 108 million adults in t

May 9th, 2023

Introducing Our Dietitian, Danielle Ziegelstein

My name is Danielle and I am a registered dietitian who will be joining Dr. Meyer’s practice! I am very excited to start working with Dr. Meyer and you all, and very excited to announce that you can now start booking with me.

May 2nd, 2023

Sleep Health Is Heart Health

The link between heart health and sleep has been studied extensively, with numerous studies showing that poor sleep quality and quantity can increase the risk of developing various cardiovascular diseases.

Apr 13th, 2023

What to Know About Statin Therapy

Statin therapy may be the boost you need to drop your cholesterol levels and reduce your risks of heart disease. Our specialist explains statin therapy and why he may recommend it as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Apr 6th, 2023

Artificial Sweetener Linked To Higher Heart Attack & Stroke Risk

Erythritol, a sugar alcohol that has been gaining popularity as a sugar substitute, has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Recent studies have shown that erythritol can have negative effects on cardiovascular health.

Mar 28th, 2023

Is Chest Pain Ever Normal?

It’s safe to say that chest pain is never normal. But while it’s probably one of the most discussed heart attack symptoms, not all chest pain comes from the heart. Read how to discover the origins of your pain.

Mar 14th, 2023

More Walking Leads to Lower Cardiovascular Risk

New research published in the journal Circulation has shown that more steps per day lead to a progressively lower risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults. The meta-analysis included eight studies with over 20,000 adult participants in total.

Mar 13th, 2023

New Study: Daily Cannabis Use Raises Heart Disease Risk By 33%

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been the subject of much debate and controversy over the years. While some people believe it has various medicinal properties, others view it as a harmful drug that can lead to addiction and other health issues.

Feb 28th, 2023

New AI Models Help To Predict 10-Year Risk of Heart Disease

AI models are helping to predict the 10-year risk of heart disease by utilizing large amounts of data and advanced machine learning techniques. One approach is to use traditional risk factors, such as age, gender, blood pressure, & cholesterol levels.

Feb 16th, 2023

Dehydration May Increase Risk Of Death By Up To 20%

A new study has found that not consuming enough water can increase the risk of death by 20%. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 adults and found a clear link between low water intake and an increased risk of death from all causes.

Jan 24th, 2023

Preventing Job Burnout from Hurting Your Health

Job burnout is a common problem that can seriously affect your health and well-being. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed and disconnected from your work, leading to feelings of exhaustion, cynicism, and a lack of accomplishment.

Jan 19th, 2023

2-Minute Exercise Bursts May Pack A Power Punch For Longevity

A recent study published in the Journal of Physiology found that just two minutes of high-intensity exercise per week can significantly improve cardiovascular health. Short bursts of exercise are also known as high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

Jan 10th, 2023

New Study's Simple Lessons - Add Less Salt, See Less Heart Disease

Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is an essential nutrient necessary for the body's proper functioning. However, too much salt can have negative effects on heart health.

Jan 4th, 2023

How to Prevent Holiday Heart Syndrome

'Tis the season of giving and receiving, holiday gatherings and overindulgences. The combination can create what Dr. Philip Ettinger described as "Holiday heart syndrome" (HHS) for the first time in 1978.

Dec 22nd, 2022

Re-Post: Dr. Meyer's Debut Blog Post, Constructing a Gratitude List

Hello, and welcome to my blog. With a new website, and new office (soon), and the fact that my children keep telling me to be more tech-savvy, I thought it was time to join the blogosphere.

Nov 29th, 2022

Debunking The Myths Of Aging

Assumptions and myths about aging abound. Not surprisingly for myths, they distort and misconcieve how older age will affect us. As we age, it's important to understand and embrace the seemingly endless positive aspects of aging.

Nov 25th, 2022

Sleeping Disorders: Symptoms, Causes & How To Get Relief

Sleep-related difficulties affect many people. The following is a description of some of the major sleep disorders. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing any of the following, it is important to receive an evaluation by a healthcare provider asap.

Nov 17th, 2022

Tips To Improve Your Sleep Hygiene

If you find yourself counting sheep at bedtime, maybe you need better sleep hygiene. Sleep hygiene involves implementing certain behaviors and practices for a good night’s sleep. Maintaining good sleep…

Nov 8th, 2022

Reading Changes Your Brain's Focus

Books change your brain’s focus, and as reading is an active activity, it requires complete engagement, separating your day from your night. While everyone’s taste in books varies, I thought I would give some of the books I have read recently.

Oct 28th, 2022

Coffee Linked To Reducing Heart Disease and Increasing Longevity

Drinking 2 to 3 daily cups of coffee, ground, instant, or decaffeinated, is associated with significant reductions in new cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality, compared with avoiding coffee, a new analysis of the prospective a UK Biobank suggests.

Oct 18th, 2022

New Study: Teens More Likely to Vape If Parent Smokes

According to a large study out of Ireland, teens were 55% more likely to try e-cigarettes than those of nonsmoking parents and 51% more likely to have tried traditional cigarettes.

Oct 4th, 2022

New Study: Link Between Increased Alcohol Consumption& Cancer Risk

A new study from Korea indicates those who increased their alcohol consumption had a higher risk of all cancers compared with those who had sustained levels of drinking, whereas those who reduced their consumption had a lower risk.

Sep 30th, 2022

Marijuana Use Linked to Heart Rhythm Issues in Older Adults

With the advent of legalization, we are just starting to gain insight into the safety of marijuana use.

Sep 14th, 2022

Where To Find The New Omicron BA-5 Subvariant Booster Near You

The FDA has authorized Covid booster shots that target the omicron BA.5 subvariant as the U.S. prepares for another surge of infections this fall and winter. They may already be available at a vaccine site near you, here's where to look.

Sep 9th, 2022

For Patients: Five Teaching Pearls About AFib

Through my recent clinic experiences, I have curated a short list of teaching points that I hope to impress upon my AFib patients during their brief outpatient visit. I don't expect all patients to follow my recommendations...

Aug 31st, 2022

Vitamins & Minerals to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recently published recommendations about the use of vitamins, minerals, and multivitamins to prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Aug 23rd, 2022

Preventable Risk Factors In Childhood Linked To Adult Heart Disease

Five childhood risk factors, individually or combined, have been identified as predictors of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events in adulthood. Body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol level, triglyceride level, and youth smoking.

Jul 14th, 2022

Five Ways to Help Reduce Every Day Stress

Some stress is part of everyone’s life. But there are times when the daily demands of the job or school, the complications of home life, the pressure of living in the New York metropolitan area, and the state of the world.

Jul 7th, 2022

Want to Reduce Stroke Risk? Sit Less. Move More. Do Chores.

A new study from San Diego State University, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, JAMA Network Open, found that doing lighter intensity daily activities such as household chores can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. 

Jun 23rd, 2022

People With Depression Experience 2X The Cardiovascular Benefits Of Exercise

People With Depression and Anxiety Experience Double The Cardiovascular Benefits Of Exercise Than Those Without Either Condition, Study Suggests

Jun 20th, 2022

More Avocados In Your Diet May Mean Less Cardiovascular Disease

New Study: 2 Servings of Avocado per Week May Cut Heart Disease Risk by 16%. New research finds that two servings of avocado a week may reduce cardiovascular risk. However, note that replacing plant oils with avocado is linked to a 45% higher stroke risk. 

Apr 29th, 2022

Higher Olive Oil Consumption Linked With Lower Risk of Premature Death

Consuming more than 7 grams (>1/2 tablespoon) of olive oil per day is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality, cancer mortality, neurodegenerative disease mortality, and respiratory disease mortality, according to a new study.

Apr 12th, 2022

Coffee Doesn’t Raise Your Risk for Heart Rhythm Problems

In the largest study of its kind, an investigation by UC San Francisco has found no evidence that moderate coffee consumption can cause cardiac arrhythmias.

Apr 3rd, 2022

Binge Drinking Linked to First Episodes of Heart Rhythm Disorder

Mardi Gras, Saturday nights, Super Bowl Sunday, and other days when more people consume more alcohol are also associated with more emergency room visits for atrial fibrillation, reported a new study led by UC San Francisco.

Mar 22nd, 2022

Replacing Bad Food Habits With Ones That Are Better For Your Heart

No one food is a magic bullet, and no one food will doom you. The reality is that most people eat both good and bad foods. Most of us try to eat a wholesome, balanced diet and whenever possible couple it with other healthy activities like regular exercise.

Feb 17th, 2022

New Study: Yoga Appears To Be A Promising Therapy For Recurrent Vasovagal Syndrome

You may know that vasovagal syncope is fainting due to stress that can cause sudden drops in blood pressure and heart rate. In a new study, yoga appears superior to standard therapy.

Feb 3rd, 2022

Pets Can Be Good for Your Heart, and Studies Appear To Prove It

If you have a pet, you already know the joy and love they can bring to your life. Now science is confirming just how good they really are for you — both mentally and physically.

Jan 26th, 2022

Why Healthy Boundaries Can Make For A Happier 2022

The holidays are full of gifts, parties, festive meals, and twinkling lights. Unfortunately, there are also awkward encounters with friends, family, or coworkers. 

Jan 5th, 2022

The Worst Habits for Your Heart's Health

From bad sleep to stress to your diet... It really can hurt your heart and wreck your health. However, there is still a lot one can do to prevent heart disease and, in some cases, even reverse it.

Dec 6th, 2021

CDC: Everyone Ages 18 and Older Should Get a Booster Shot

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Monday everyone aged 18 years and older should get a booster shot, as it looks to tackle a new and highly infectious strain of the coronavirus that is quickly spreading across the globe.

Nov 30th, 2021

Study: Intermittent Fasting May Lower Risk of Heart Disease & Diabetes

Eating your daily calories within a consistent window of 8-10 hours is a powerful strategy to prevent and manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, according to a new manuscript published in the Endocrine Society’s journal.

Nov 2nd, 2021

Simple Ways to Help Lower Your Anxiety

Everyone can feel anxious now and then. From tense social situations that make your stomach clench to the nervous sweat some may get going into a dentist or visiting the doctor, in the current culture, there are many situations that can increase anxiety.

Oct 25th, 2021

Study: Young Adult Marijuana Smokers are Twice as Likely to Suffer Heart Attacks

A history of myocardial infarction was more frequently reported among young adults who recently used cannabis compared with those who did not use the substance, a cross-sectional study showed.

Oct 18th, 2021

Eating A Plant-Based Diet May Lower The Risk Of Heart Disease In Mid-Life

Eating nutritious, plant-based foods is downright heart-healthy according to two research studies published this month in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Oct 6th, 2021

Pfizer COVID19 Booster Update

Booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine are now authorized by the CDC, but only for certain people age 18 years and older who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine more than 6 mos. ago.

Oct 1st, 2021

STUDY: Eating Lignans Like Flaxseed & Chia Associated With Lower Risk Of Heart Disease

A new study published in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, suggests that consuming lignans may lead to a lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).

Sep 8th, 2021

Going For A Ride - The Benefits Of Biking

Cycling is fantastic exercise, benefiting your overall health and fitness. As a regular activity, cycling can be exceptionally good for cardiovascular fitness, as well as toning muscles, improving physique, and boosting body image.

Aug 26th, 2021

The E-Cigarette Epidemic - The Facts And How To Help

With the recent explosion of vaping, adolescents are among those most vulnerable to its siren call. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is especially harmful to a young person's developing mind.

Jun 16th, 2021

New Study: 2 Fruit and 3 Vegetable Servings/Day May Lead To A Longer Life

Findings from a new observational study show that eating 2 fruit and 3 vegetable servings per day is associated with a lower risk of death related to cancer, cardiovascular disease, or respiratory disease. Starchy vegetables and fruit juices,...

Apr 10th, 2021

Sleep Health Equals Heart Health

The link between heart health and sleep has been studied extensively, with numerous studies showing that poor sleep quality and quantity can increase the risk of developing various cardiovascular diseases.

Mar 3rd, 2021

Emerging From Quarantine: Keeping Your Health Priorities Straight In A Post-COVID World

COVID-19 lockdowns are easing across the U.S., and there is a lot to process as these restrictions begin to end and transition. What is the new safe? Can we return to the gym?

Jul 16th, 2020

Ultra-processed Foods: A Silent Culprit in Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality for Type-2 Diabetics

A recent study offers evidence for a significant correlation between intake of ultraprocessed foods & increased cardiovascular disease & mortality rates among people with T2 diabetes, irrespective of the overall nutritional quality of their diet.

Aug 14th, 2023

Healthy Habits That Lead To Improved Longevity

The proof abounds. By adding healthy habits like not smoking, exercising, and maintaining a good weight, those who live into their nineties and hundreds not only have remarkably fewer instances of age-related chronic disease - heart disease, cancer.

Dec 17th, 2022

The Biology of Emotion: What It's Teaching Us About Living Longer

New research out of Harvard helping us further understand the link between positive emotions and good health. It's shedding more light on often-asked questions like: Can a more optimistic outlook mean less heart disease?

Feb 23rd, 2021

Where & How To Get Your NYC COVID-19 Vaccine

New Yorkers in Phase 1a & 1b ARE NOW eligible, those groups include the following: Age 65 and older. A patient in a Nursing home regulated by the NYS Department of Health (DOH).

Jan 14th, 2021

How to Avoid Holiday Heart Syndrome

Tis the season of giving and receiving, holiday gatherings and overindulgences. The combination can create what Dr. Philip Ettinger described as "Holiday heart syndrome" (HHS) for the first time in 1978.

Dec 25th, 2020

Wearing Face Masks During Exercise Won't Hinder Breathing or Impair Lung Function

While wearing a face mask during a workout is not the most comfortable experience, two new studies out this month indicate that a mask won't be detrimental to your breathing during your activity.

Dec 9th, 2020

A New Study Suggests Lifestyle Changes Can Offset Cognitive Decline Related To Aging

A new study of older adults shows how making some lifestyle changes such as changing diet and increasing physical activity can lower the risk of dementia, even if the person already has been diagnosed with and is experiencing cognitive decline.

Oct 30th, 2020

New Study Confirms Link Between Influenza And Heart Complications

People with heart disease and those who have had a stroke are at higher risk for developing serious complications from the flu. If you're in that group, it is especially important that you get a flu vaccine every flu season to potentially serious...

Oct 30th, 2020

It's OK To Worry About Your Local Movie Theaters

It’s a beautiful, sunny morning, and spring is in the air. There should be a bounce to your step as you prepare to decamp from your home, meet your friends for coffee, head into the office, and begin another wonderful day.

May 4th, 2020

Running A Marathon Could Prove To Be A Vascular Fountain Of Youth

There is new research out that suggests that first-time marathon runners could help reduce their vascular age — the age of one’s arteries — by up to four years. The study's purpose was to determine whether the rigorous training...

Apr 22nd, 2020

Optimism May Be Positively Good For Your Heart

A recent NY Times article cited a number of recent long-term studies that linked greater optimism to a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other chronic ailments, and to fostering "exceptional longevity."

Mar 16th, 2020

What Everyone Needs To Know About Marijuana And Cardiovascular Disease

It's turning out that cannabis may not be the panacea many once had professed it to be. While recreational consumption still appears to have a fairly low level of health risk for the average person, a new study suggests that...

Feb 4th, 2020

Top Heart Healthy Apps & Devices For 2020

In 2017, Stanford University researchers began a study sponsored by Apple that looked at the effectiveness of cardiac apps installed in the Apple Watch. Last month, those researchers published their paper in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Jan 22nd, 2020

Sleep & Heart Disease - Dangerous Bedfellows

One of the least mentioned factors that can contribute to heart disease is sleep. There are several risk factors that people can’t control such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, and family history.

Oct 29th, 2019

The Detrimental Effects Of Too Much Sitting

Sitting for long periods is a near daily occurrence for millions of people in modern society due to office jobs and other lifestyle circumstances. Sadly, this situation does not feed into your hopes of promoting good health.

Oct 12th, 2019

Are You Getting The Exercise You Need?

Staying active is one of the best ways to keep our bodies healthy. Most Americans don’t get enough exercise and, therefore, don’t reap the health benefits.

Aug 27th, 2019

Dr. Meyer's Debut Blog Post: Constructing a Gratitude List

Hello, and welcome to my blog. With a new website, and new office (soon), and the fact that my children keep telling me to be more tech-savvy, I thought it was time to join the blogosphere.

Jun 26th, 2019