Ep 175: The "Big Is Beautiful" Movement, Obesity, and Heart Health with Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro

Is big really beautiful? What's the connection between LDL and coronary disease? How can someone who looks healthy have high cholesterol? What's the key to optimal heart health? In this episode, Philip's ( @witsandweights ) special guest is Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro, a triple board-certified cardiologist, internal medicine specialist, and nuclear cardiologist. Dr. Di Pietro discusses the "Big Is Beautiful" movement, obesity, and heart health. She also discusses various topics, including monitoring health markers, understanding LDL and saturated fats, mental health, high cholesterol, weight loss, and more. She also shares best practices for nutrition and exercise. Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro graduated from Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology at 19. She became the youngest graduate of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Di Pietro is passionate about educating the public about health, nutrition, and disease prevention. Her approach to healthcare is infectious positivity, and the rule she lives by is: BE NICE. Today, you’ll learn all about: 0:00 Intro 3:03 Debunking heart disease myths and the importance of preventative measures 6:07 What health markers should be monitored 7:32 The importance of understanding LDL in preventing coronary disease 12:36 Threshold for saturated fats, and measuring inflammatory markers 17:57 The significance of calcium scores and fiber 21:56 Resistance training for heart health, especially for women 23:41 How much walking affects cardiovascular health 26:37 The impact of mental health on cardiovascular well-being 29:01 Typical causes of high cholesterol in people who appear to be healthy 30:26 Is big beautiful and/or healthy? 36:06 Advice for someone struggling to lose weight 41:54 Dr. Di Pietro’s "be nice" philosophy 44:18 Does genetically elevated LDL in perimenopause predispose you to higher cardiovascular risk? 45:41 Testosterone and cardiovascular health concerns 49:52 What question did Dr. Di Pietro wish Philip had asked 54:29 Where to find Dr. Di Pietro 55:01 Outro Episode resources: Dr. Di Pietro's IG: @drtiffanydipietro and @dipietrohealth/ Website: DiPietroHealth.com Support the show 📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN ). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance. 👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram