Latest news with #EvanLevine
Daily Mirror
11-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Doctor says quit five habits 'before you reach 40' to live longer
A consultant cardiologist has shared the five common habits he recommends you give up before you reach the age of 40 in order to ensure you live a longer, healthier life They say that life begins at 40 - however, a doctor has issued a warning about certain lifestyle choices you should consider discarding before reaching this milestone age. Dr Evan Levine, a consultant cardiologist, took to TikTok to outline five habits he believes you should eliminate for a happier and healthier future. Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) last year revealed the average UK life expectancy had for the first time more than a decade – 78.6 years for boys born from 2020 to 2022, and 82.6 for girls. But Dr Levine said you may be in a better position to beat the odds if you follow his advice. The New York-based specialist insists that if living longer is your goal, reconsidering some common habits may well be in order. "Five things you need to stop doing by the age of 40, although it's never too late to stop," he began in a video. Smoking Starting with perhaps the most obvious factor, Dr Levine highlighted the importance of considering giving up smoking as you edge towards 40. "Studies show that the greatest sensation from smoking comes early in adulthood," he explained. "You can reverse most of the complications [from smoking], but don't wait until you are 60 - stop right now." With regards to smoking, the NHS advises: "Every cigarette you smoke is harmful. Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable deaths in England, accounting for more than 80,000 deaths each year. One in two smokers will die from a smoking-related disease." The NHS also recommends downloading its free NHS Quit Smoking app for "daily motivation" and to track your progress. Alcohol Dr Levine ranks cutting down on alcohol as the second key health move. "Alcohol affects the risk of cancer - especially in women through heart disease and atrial fibrillation," he remarked. He warned that having more than a single drink daily is "dangerous" for your wellbeing. "You're not a kid anymore," Dr Levine pointed out. "As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse and homelessness," the NHS advises online. "To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, both men and women are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week." Drugs "Sorry to say, but number three is marijuana," the doctor continued, highlighting the drug's link to cognitive decline. "It also increases your risk of dementia in later life - and of course any drugs like cocaine... that next snort... your heart's not that young anymore, it could be your last," he warned. In the UK, cannabis is illegal for recreational use, and it's classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, while cocaine is listed as a Class A substance. The NHS' advice on drugs reads: "If you need help for a drug problem, you're entitled to treatment in the same way as anyone else who has a health problem. A GP may be a good place to start. They can discuss your problems with you and help get you into treatment." Over-exercising It might come as a shock, but Dr Levine warns that "too much of a good thing" - such as long-distance running and extreme exercise - might seem beneficial, but can turn out to be the "cash cow of orthopaedic doctors." He explained: "Pounding away at your hips, knees and feet, especially when you age, increases your risk of joint disease and needs for replacements." The doctor recommends such activities are "tapered down" to just a couple of miles, while alternative forms of exercise could be sought to help. He added: "Long-distance running is also associated with a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, especially as you get older." Dr Levine also expressed concerns about heavy weight training. "Doing so over and over increases your blood pressure, and can also increase heart disease - so time to cut down on the weights also," he advised. For people aged 19 to 64, NHS Inform states that "all adults should aim to be physically active every day. The more you do, the greater the benefit to your health and wellbeing." Meanwhile, for people aged 65 and over, the NHS recommends: be physically active every day, even if it's just light activity do activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility on at least 2 days a week do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity if you are already active, or a combination of both reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity Eating junk food Dr Levine emphasised in his closing remarks: "Sorry, but you are 40 now - stop eating everything you want." While this might be more easily said than done, he suggested that "following simple rules" can greatly benefit your wellbeing. Don't overcomplicate it, he advises, proposing that individuals should cut back on "fast foods, sugary drinks like sodas, frappuccinos and energy drinks." And his parting piece of advice? "Look, your 40s will either make or break you if you want to have another 40 plus good years." The NHS' Eat Well service advises everyone to eat a balanced diet. The Eatwell Guide shows that to have a healthy, balanced diet.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Sea salt, pink salt, Celtic salt: Experts say these ‘fancy' salts may secretly harm your heart health
Seasoning is perhaps the most fun part of cooking and dining. A dash of salt can take a dull dish and turn it into a culinary masterpiece. But beneath the flavours and foodie fads is a little-appreciated reality: not all salts are equal, and overdoing it can damage your heart. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now According to reports, two top cardiologists, Dr. Susan Cheng and Dr. Evan Levine, warn about a rising trend: using too much "fancy" salt, such as Himalayan pink salt and coarse sea salt. Their issue? So-called gourmet versions may be more detrimental to your health than you realise. How salt helps and hurts your heart and health Salt consists of sodium chloride, and sodium is a necessary mineral in your body. It serves a number of important functions: Controlling fluid balance Facilitating nerve impulses Permitting muscle contractions But excessive sodium is not good. Excessive sodium consumption is directly associated with elevated blood pressure (hypertension), which raises the risk of: Heart disease Stroke Kidney damage Cognitive impairment in elderly individuals Most adults should limit intake of sodium to 1,500 mg a day, according to the American Heart Association, although the absolute limit is 2,300 mg — roughly one teaspoon of table salt. Reality check: The typical American eats approximately 3,400 mg of sodium a day, which is well over the safety limit. Why fancy salts like pink and sea salt may not be healthier; here's what experts warn Popular salts such as coarse sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, and Celtic salt are usually touted as being better options. These offer the following: Natural origin Trace mineral composition (such as magnesium or potassium) Beauty in appearance and crunchy texture But cardiologists have a very different reality to share. Dr. Susan Cheng's warns: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Dr. Cheng cautions that the coarser texture and larger crystals of these salts make it simple to unknowingly overuse them. "That satisfying crunch makes you feel like you're using a little bit, but really you're adding a lot of extra sodium," Dr. Cheng says. Table salt, however, contains uniform, finer grains, so it delivers flavor more effectively and needs a smaller amount for the same salty flavor. Dr. Evan Levine: "Don't Fall for the Salt Hype" Dr. Evan Levine, a prominent cardiologist and health mythbuster on TikTok, calls out the misinformation around Celtic salt and Himalayan salt. Many people believe these salts are healthier because they're "less processed" or contain extra minerals. But Dr. Levine clarifies: 'It's sodium chloride — just like your regular salt. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The so-called mineral benefits are negligible. You're still eating salt.' He condemns health influencers for their sale of these salts as detoxifying and therapeutic when they possess no demonstrated greater health value and are not iodized, a necessary nutrient in standard table salt. Why table salt is a smarter option Despite what people believe, iodized table salt may very well be the healthiest and most rational option for most individuals. Here's why: Iodine Fortification Iodine prevents thyroid illness and goiter. Most gourmet salts have no added iodine. Improved Portion Control Fine texture = more controlled use. You have maximum taste with reduced sodium. Regulated and Purified Table salt from the market is processed and tested for purity and safety. Unprocessed salts might have trace metals or impurities from the ground. Sprinkle with caution: The surprising truth about salt intake When you grab that gorgeous salt cellar full of pink crystals or rough flakes, you might not be aware of how much sodium you're adding. This is particularly hazardous for: Individuals with blood pressure problems Those with heart disease or kidney disease Those who are attempting to control weight or inflammation Salt is easy to exceed, not only from your seasoning — but also from processed and restaurant foods, which tend to be filled with unseen sodium. Useful takeaways for a healthier seasoning If you want to taste your food without harming your health, these tips from cardiologists are for you: Use iodized table salt — unless otherwise recommended. Use a measuring spoon instead of sprinkling salt haphazardly. Skip doubling up: don't add coarse salt over dishes already salted while cooking. Season with herbs and spices rather than using salt alone. Read nutrition labels for sodium in packaged foods. Salt is essential — but moderation is key, and marketing can be misleading. Cardiologists emphasise that fancy salts don't offer real health advantages over iodized table salt. In fact, they could lead to excessive sodium intake, increasing your risk of chronic disease. Also Read |
Daily Mail
22-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Why heart attacks are striking young people - and surprising connection to a pandemic drug
Heart attacks are typically thought to occur in older and unhealthy people - those suffering from diseases like obesity or diabetes. Every year, about 805,000 people in the United States have a heart attack and the CDC estimates one American has a heart attack every 40 seconds. In 2024, it was estimated that approximately 695,000 Americans died of heart disease However, more and more young people are experiencing the deadly episodes, with heart attacks among 18- to 44-year-olds increasing 66 percent between 2019 and 2023. Roughly 0.3 percent of Americans in that age group had a heart attack in 2019 - but in 2023 that rose to 0.5 percent, or one in 200. While that may still seem like a relatively low number, it means one in five heart attack patients are younger than 40, something doctors call 'alarming.' Now, a top cardiologist has revealed to four reasons heart attacks are surging in young and healthy people. Dr Evan Levine, a cardiologist at a major university hospital told this website heart attacks among young people may be on the rise because of things like drug abuse and stress. Prescription drug abuse Dr Levine said he believes one of the leading causes of heart attacks is abuse of prescription medications, including amphetamines like Adderall and methylphenidate such as Ritalin - both used to manage ADHD. Adderall - a stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - can increase the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular events when misused, as noted by the American College of Cardiology. The medication, which is taken by over 16million adults in the US, increases attention and decreases hyperactivity in ADHD patients by increasing levels of dopamine (described as the feel-good hormone) in the brain. Despite being a commonly prescribed treatment, the United States Drug Enforcement Agency classifies Adderall as a Schedule II drug, the same status as cocaine - meaning they both have a high potential to be abused. The feeling of euphoria the medication provides can lead to tolerance or dependence - both of which can prompt a patient to take higher doses of Adderall to achieve its effects. This can cause an addiction to the medication over time. Some common signs of Adderall abuse include increased heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, sweating, restlessness and dilated pupils. At times, the medication can also constrict blood vessels and hamper blood flow which in turn, can increase the heart rate and blood pressure and increase chances of having an attack. Excessive intake of Adderall can increase the risks of having a stroke or a heart attack as it can increase the overall heart rate and blood pressure higher than the baseline. Spontaneous coronary artery dissection Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is an emergency condition where the wall of a coronary artery tears, potentially leading to a heart attack. It is commonly seen in young woman and most times, after they give birth, Dr Levine told this website. While the exact cause of the condition remains unknown, hormonal fluctuations, inflammation and possible underlying conditions like fibromuscular dysplasia (abnormal growth of tissue within the walls of medium and large arteries) are suspected. A tear in the artery wall can allow blood to pool between the layers of the heart and obstruct blood flow to the organ. This interruption of blood supply can deprive the heart muscles of oxygen and other essential nutrients, which can lead to damage and a heart attack. Dr Levine said it is essential that experts find 'more sensitive methods' to detect SCAD in young people to avoid cases of heart attacks. Obesity More than 100 million or 40.3 percent of Americans are suffering from obesity across the country. And studies estimate over 370,000 deaths per year in the US are linked to excessive body weight. Obesity can raise cholesterol and blood pressure and lead to Type 2 diabetes - all of which increase risks for heart attacks. Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher need more blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to their bodies, which forces the heart to beat with more pressure to keep up. Extra weight also gives the body volume, which creates more resistance for the heart to overcome as it pumps. The larger volume and increased resistance can result in the heart having to work much harder almost all the time. Since the organ is made of only muscle, the increased workload can cause pressure in the walls and increase blood pressure. High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of heart attack and is the leading cause of death in obese individuals. Recently, a group of researchers from across the globe found performing at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity over the span of two days had similar health benefits as to working out the entire week. People who only exercised on two days had a 32 percent lower risk of death from all causes, a 31 percent lower chance of dying from cardiovascular disease and a 21 percent lower risk of dying from cancer. The American Heart Association recommends adults engage in moderate-intensity aerobic activity for about 150 minutes per week, 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week. Crime-related stress Stress can have a major impact on health - from affecting sleep to raising blood pressure, not getting enough shut eye can be dangerous. And while work-related stress has often been the focus, Dr Levine told that stress from crime may be a major contributor to early heart attacks. The cardiologist told 'society has fallen apart over a number of years with fear of crime in so many [people]', which can lead to stress in the body and affect heart health. While the 2024 FBI crime report suggests a decrease in violent crimes including murder, homicide and car jackings, a study by Statista suggests 64 percent of Americans feel like there is more crime now in the country now than in recent years. Personal experiences, shared stories of near-death due to rampant crime and mass hysteria can have a psychological, emotional and physical impact on the human body. This can lead to stress responses ranging from anxiety and fear to more long-term conditions like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. While stress itself cannot directly cause a heart attack, it can significantly contribute to the risk by increasing blood pressure and affecting blood flow, which can pose a risk for heart attack and stroke.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I'm a cardiologist — this overprescribed drug taken by millions of people is toxic for your heart
This little pill — taken by adults and children alike — might just be a prescription for heart disease. Dr. Evan Levine is an experienced cardiologist in Scarsdale, New York, who also runs a very popular TikTok channel, where he gets real about everything from heart attacks and health care quacks to the truth about your favorite Starbucks drink. Speaking to The Post, the veteran heart doctor tackled a drug that is commonly prescribed to help children perform better on tests and sports — a phenomenon he calls 'borderline child abuse.' 'There are two classes of stimulants for ADHD,' Levine said. 'One is the Ritalin-derived drugs called methylphenidates — Ritalin and Concerta are the most popular — and the other is the amphetamine class like Adderall and Vyvanse.' Both types, he said, 'increase the levels of norepinephrine in the blood, which can lead to slightly higher blood pressure and a mild increase in risk of arrhythmias.' That might sound minor, but new research and common-sense questions have Levine sounding the alarm. 'In 2011, the Food and Drug Administration used a study to confirm the safety of these stimulant medications and they concluded — among young and middle-aged adults — [that there is] no increase in cardiovascular events,' Levine pointed out. 'But the study clearly states the average follow-up was only 1.3 years,' he added. 'So, yeah, young healthy people have no risk at 1.3 years with elevated norepinephrine levels in their blood.' Here comes the however. 'We know that very elevated levels of norepinephrine for years, like in people with adrenal tumors and heart failure, can adversely affect the heart — levels are much higher here,' Levine said. 'What if a child takes this for 20 years? The FDA never commented on this. Or an elderly patient takes this — or anyone at risk, people with congenital heart conditions like a bicuspid aortic valve, which 1.5% of the population has and are at risk for aortic aneurysms? The FDA never did their job.' And now? The longer-term data is starting to back him up. 'In April 2024, they find that when you follow them up for eight years, young healthy people aged 20 to 40, they have a 57% higher risk than young healthy people not on these meds,' Levine said. 'It ends up that 1/500 of these patients were diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy.' Levine, who also tackled the subject on TikTok, noted that the sheer volume of Americans taking these meds could be a ticking time bomb — recent data suggested 1 in 9 kids these days have been diagnosed with ADHD. 'The numbers of young adults on this since childhood can be significant,' he said. But it's not just kids: A recent study showed 1 in 17 adults have been diagnosed with ADHD, and some experts questioned whether or not all of these cases are legitimate. Levine said people are taking it without an ADHD diagnosis, only to help them 'focus better on exams or perform better in sports.' Plus, he added, the drugs may have a greater risk for adults who may have hypertension or underlying heart disease. Telehealth services have supercharged the trend, Levine warned — potentially making the drugs available to anyone with a credit card and Wi-Fi access. 'Who is vetting these services? 'Hi, my name is Evan and I cannot concentrate and need some Adderall. Thank you,'' he said. According to Levine, what's lacking is comprehensive mental health care and careful consideration of non-stimulant options. 'With better behavioral health, available psychiatric evaluation and alternatives like non-stimulants, of course the amount of prescriptions for these drugs will diminish,' he said. Levine pointed out that these meds are taken seriously — even banned — in certain fields unless a formal diagnosis is proven. 'In Olympic sports, you need to apply for an exemption and demonstrate you have ADHD. Otherwise, you are disqualified,' he said. 'One can only guess there are some that claim a diagnosis to improve their ability and concentration in a sport.' So, what now? For Levine, the message is simple: ADHD should absolutely be treated — but with more caution, more oversight and less blind trust in pills.
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I'm a cardiologist — the 4 worst drinks for heart health including a ‘dangerous' Starbucks order
Your favorite Starbucks order might just be a latte for your heart. Dr. Evan Levine is a cardiologist in Scarsdale, New York with over 30 years of experience. He also runs a very popular TikTok channel where he frequently doles out brutally honest — and often a little comical — advice on topics like preventing a heart attack and which healthcare 'quacks' to ignore. He recently shared a video revealing the 'ten most toxic drinks for your heart.' We spoke to Levine about which beverages made his top four — including a previous personal favorite — and why. We'd hate to break your heart — but that caramel frap might be a poison arrow to your arteries. 'A grande iced frap used to be my favorite,' Levine told The Post. 'Until i realized i actually got a high off this stuff and then crashed within two hours.' That's because it's got almost 100 mg of caffeine and 51 grams of sugar — the equivalent of 13 teaspoons. 'People may not realize but that's almost as much sugar as the Monster energy drink — 57 grams — but less than the 160 mg of caffeine.' Still, Levine believes 'it's potentially dangerous stress on the heart for anyone with heart disease to drink these concoctions of caffeine and sugar and a perfect storm to induce palpitations.' He notes that's especially true for anyone trying to get a little pick-me-up. 'Adding alcohol for a boost or a hangover cure only makes it worse,' he warns. According to Levine, drinking booze is 'likely safe if you have one or less drinks a day if you have no heart problems, but alcohol intake increases blood pressure, triglycerides, atrial fibrillation and — in higher doses — is a direct toxin to the heart, so much so we have a phrase in cardiology — alcohol cardiomyopathy.' Alcohol cardiomyopathy is a heart condition caused specifically by chronic heavy alcohol consumption — and it can be fatal. Before you ask — yes, Levine concurs with the recent debunking of the common wisdom that a couple of glasses of red wine a day is good for your heart. 'There's nothing heart healthy here and all those studies — most sponsored by the alcohol or wine industry — were likely flawed observational studies, with an association with better outcome but not causation,' he said. 'Simply put: people who drank a glass of wine may have been more athletic or had some other unaccounted benefit.' Looks like a can of pop is no better. 'Lets be simple here: a can of soda has 10 teaspoons of sugar in it or the equivalent amount of corn syrup,' he said. 'It's toxic.' These huge doses of sugar — which mostly come in the form of corn syrup in the US — raise triglycerides, increase your weight, spike your blood sugar levels, and give your diabetes risk an uptick — all of which damage the heart, according to Levine. 'I want everyone to imagine drinking 1/5 of a cup of pure corn syrup because that's what you're doing every time you drink a can of Coke,' he said. Last but not least — energy drinks might be battery acid for the heart. 'Drinks like Red Bull have about 1.5 times the caffeine as coffee but also contain almost eight teaspoons or more of sugar — or worse, corn syrup,' he said. 'The Monster energy drink has almost 15 teaspoons of it.' A devastated mother has been sounding the alarm about energy drinks after her 28-year-old 'workout queen' daughter died at the age of 28 from a heart attack.
