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The Proof · May 18, 2026 · 1h 57m

Improving cholesterol and blood pressure with diet | A Masterclass

Michelle Routhenstein, Dr. Raymond Townsend, Dr. Walter Willett
Show Notes

Simon Hill brings together leading voices in nutrition and cardiology to tackle cholesterol, blood pressure, and heart disease prevention. The masterclass features Harvard's Dr. Walter Willett on saturated fat, seed oils, and dairy; cardiology dietitian Michelle Routhenstein on ApoB testing and food swaps; and nephrologist Dr. Raymond Townsend on sodium and blood pressure. The episode reviews landmark trials, the Portfolio Diet, and the power of combining diet, exercise, and medications.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

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The Portfolio Diet: 30% LDL Reduction Without Statins09:11
The Portfolio Diet, a plant-based combination of cholesterol-lowering foods, can reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 30 percent, comparable to a starting dose of a statin.
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Six Trials That Changed Heart Disease Science16:30
A review of six landmark clinical trials demonstrates that intensive dietary and lifestyle changes can halt progression and even cause regression of coronary artery plaque.
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Highlights

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Legumes: The Most Underrated Longevity Food00:00
Simon Hill argues that legumes are the most underrated food group for promoting long-term health.
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Seed Oils and Inflammation: Examining the Science50:50
Walter Willett assesses the claim that seed oils cause inflammation, evaluating the scientific evidence behind the controversy.
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The Sodium-Potassium Ratio and Blood Pressure43:08
The episode explains that the balance between sodium and potassium intake is more important for blood pressure control than sodium alone, and introduces the DASH diet as an effective pattern.
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