Tag: heart health

Why You Should Reconsider Using PPI Drugs Long-Term

Posted on by AmyADMIN
PPI drugs long-term - man holding white pill in his hand

When heartburn or acid reflux flares up, it’s tempting to reach for a quick fix to make it go away. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most commonly used meds for handling these issues. But did you know that using PPI drugs long-term can lead to serious health issues?

On a recent episode of the Women Want Strong Men podcast, we sat down with Dr. Katie Rybak to recap the key takeaways from the 2024 WorldLink 9th Annual Academic Summit. One of the topics we explored was the dangers of long-term PPI use. 

Today, we’re covering everything you need to know about PPI drugs, the risks they bring, and healthier ways to manage acid reflux. Check out the full episode below, then keep reading!

What Are PPI Drugs?

To understand PPIs, let’s start with the basics: PPIs, or Proton Pump Inhibitors, are drugs designed to reduce the production of stomach acid. 

They work by blocking the enzyme responsible for acid secretion in the stomach, which can help with conditions like acid reflux, GERD, and peptic ulcers. Common PPI brand names you might recognize include:

  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)
  • Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
  • Esomeprazole (Nexium)

These over-the-counter medications were created for short-term relief, targeting immediate symptoms and giving some breathing room to heal inflammation in the esophagus and stomach. Over time, many people have started using them as a daily fix, without realizing the risks that come with long-term dependency.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Use

PPIs were designed for short-term use—typically for a period of two to eight weeks, depending on the condition being treated. They can be highly effective in reducing symptoms of acid-related issues and providing relief. 

However, because PPIs are so accessible, many people start using them regularly without guidance, leading to long-term dependency. When we spoke with Dr. Rybak, we discussed that relying on PPIs can mask underlying issues instead of addressing the root cause. 

Rather than being the first line of treatment for ongoing acid reflux or GERD, lifestyle and dietary changes can often play a significant role in managing these conditions. Long-term PPI use can bring about various risks—which we’ll get into in the next section.

What Are the Risks of Long-Term PPI Use?

While PPIs can offer short-term relief, extended use can lead to health concerns. Here are some key risks associated with prolonged PPI use:

  1. Reduced Nitric Oxide Production
  2. Risk of Chronic Conditions
  3. Bone Health Concerns

Reduced Nitric Oxide Production

Nitric oxide is a key molecule for cardiovascular health and immune function, and works by helping to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain cancers. PPIs can disrupt this production, increasing inflammation, impacting heart health (specifically, blood pressure), and even elevating cancer risk.

Risk of Chronic Conditions

Ongoing PPI use has been linked to an increased risk of conditions like diabetes, dementia, and kidney disease. For example, studies have shown that PPIs can raise the risk of chronic kidney disease due to changes in our bodily processes.

Bone Health Concerns

PPIs can mess with calcium absorption, which is essential for bone health. Over time, this can lead to reduced bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis—especially for long-term users.

PPI Drugs and Nitric Oxide: What’s the Connection?

Above, we mentioned that prolonged PPI use can impact nitric oxide (NO) production. Many people don’t talk about this, or even really understand what it means, but it’s a big deal. NO plays a vital role in keeping our blood vessels healthy, supporting immune response, and reducing inflammation.

Long-term PPI use can significantly hinder the body’s ability to produce NO, which has a ripple effect on many of these functions. As nitric oxide levels drop, you can start to see issues like increased blood pressure, inflammation, and a heightened risk for heart disease. 

This is especially concerning if you’re taking PPIs daily without a plan to transition off. According to Dr. Nathan Bryan, a nitric oxide researcher, PPI users can experience a chain reaction, with lower nitric oxide levels impacting their heart health, immune function, and even cancer risk.

If you’re struggling with reduced nitric oxide production, you may want to explore options designed to promote enhanced vasodilation. We recommend Nitric Oxide Releasing Lozenges, a high-quality supplement that’s both safe and effective for individuals with low nitric oxide production. 

What Can I Use Instead of PPI Drugs?

If you’re looking for ways to handle acid reflux without the negative effects of long-term PPI use, here are some effective alternatives to try:

  • Dietary Changes – Avoid common triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, and high-fat meals. Also, consider eating smaller meals, chewing slowly, and avoiding food before bedtime.
  • Lifestyle Modifications – Simple adjustments like elevating the head of your bed, maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight, and quitting smoking and alcohol can make a big difference in reducing reflux. Our advanced testing options can also help you eliminate any food sensitivities that may be associated with your digestive issues.
  • Natural Supplements – Supplements like zinc and L-carnosine can help repair the stomach lining and ease inflammation. L-carnosine, in particular, has been shown to help with acid-related issues.
  • Safer Meds for Occasional Use – If you need occasional relief, try Pepcid (famotidine), which works differently than PPIs and has a lower risk of long-term effects. Rather than a daily fix, only use it when your symptoms flare. 

How Can I Safely Taper Off PPI Drugs?

If you’ve been using PPI drugs for a while, stopping cold turkey could lead to what’s known as rebound acid hypersecretion. This is where your symptoms come back even stronger. Here’s a safer way to taper off: 

  1. Consult a Professional. Talk with your healthcare provider first. They can guide you through a personalized tapering plan to safely ease off the medication.
  1. Reduce Gradually. Start by lowering your dose and spacing out how often you take it. For example, if you take it daily, try switching to every other day.
  1. Make Dietary Adjustments. Support your digestive health by reducing trigger foods, eating smaller portions, and adding gut-friendly options.
  1. Use Safer Alternatives as Needed. If you feel occasional heartburn during the transition, try taking Pepcid for relief when symptoms arise.
  1. Monitor Symptoms. Pay close attention to how your body responds and work with your healthcare provider to make adjustments if necessary.

Begin the Journey to Long-Term Health and Well-Being

Long-term PPI drug use can have lasting impacts on your health, like increasing inflammation and heart disease risk. By taking a tailored approach, you can address acid reflux without all the downsides. If you’re ready to explore a safer, more effective approach to managing your health, our team is here to help. 

At Victory Men’s Health, we create personalized treatment plans that work for your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re looking for help with gut health, hormone imbalance, ED, or another concern, we’ll work with you to come up with a long-term solution. 


Contact us today to book a consultation and begin your journey to better health.

Statins vs. Estradiol: Which is Better for Heart Health?

Posted on by AmyADMIN
Young tanned man with hand on chest feeling heart pain - statins vs estradiol for heart health

It’s no secret that cardiovascular disease remains a leading concern for men and women. Statins have long been the first choice to manage cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. Now, there’s a new contender: hormone therapy, specifically with estradiol. So, when it comes to statins vs. estradiol, which is better?

Today, we’re exploring what each option offers, how they’re different, and which one might be the right choice for you. If you’re worried about your cardiovascular health, reach out to schedule a consultation for a heart health screening with one of our providers. 

On an episode of the Women Want Strong Men podcast, we sat down with Dr. John Carrozzella to discuss all things estradiol and its cardio-protective effects. Check out the full episode below, then keep reading to learn more. 

What Are Statins?

Statins are a type of drug used to lower LDL cholesterol—the kind that contributes to plaque buildup in your arteries. This buildup can restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. 

Because they’re effective at reducing LDL cholesterol, statins have become one of the most widely prescribed cholesterol medications.

While statins do help lower cholesterol, their overall effectiveness in reducing heart disease risk can be limited. Research shows they’re beneficial for high-risk patients, but the actual risk reduction is relatively modest—about 4%.

For many people, especially those who don’t already have heart disease, statins don’t always produce the results we’d hope for. Plus, they come with some side effects that, for some men, can be fairly uncomfortable. It’s also important to note that while statins mainly target cholesterol, that’s not the only piece of the heart health puzzle.

What is Estradiol?

Estradiol is a form of estrogen. While it’s typically associated with women’s health, it’s also crucial for men’s health—especially as you age. Estradiol plays a role in many of our bodily functions, including keeping our hearts in good shape. Unlike statins, which focus only on lowering cholesterol, estradiol supports heart health on multiple fronts.

Estradiol works differently than statins by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and helping to keep the artery walls strong and clear. 

As men and women age, our hormone levels naturally decline. In women, this drop is particularly steep after menopause, which coincides with a big rise in heart disease risk. Men experience a gradual decline in estradiol as well, and it can impact heart health over time. 

Statins vs. Estradiol: Which is Better for Heart Health?

So, let’s get down to the main question: if both statins and estradiol can help with heart health, how do they compare? Here’s a closer look at how each works and what you can expect.

Mechanisms of Action

Statins primarily work by lowering LDL cholesterol in your blood, which helps to reduce plaque buildup in arteries. This can lower the chance of blockages, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes. But beyond cholesterol, statins don’t address other causes of heart disease, like inflammation or blood vessel health.

Estradiol has a broader effect on heart health. In addition to reducing cholesterol, it also reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and protects blood vessels. Think of it as a multi-layered approach—estradiol targets several heart disease risk factors at once, not just one.

Research Insights

The evidence for both treatments is compelling but also tells different stories. Statins are effective in lowering cholesterol, which can help reduce the risk of heart issues, especially for people already at high risk. But if we’re talking about overall heart protection and vitality, estradiol has a lot going for it. 

Studies suggest that estradiol may lower overall mortality rates and offer broader protection for the heart, brain, and even bones. For men and women interested in not just surviving but thriving as they age, estradiol is proving to be a valuable ally.

Long-Term Impact

Long-term, the effects of these treatments can vary quite a bit. While statins effectively lower LDL, they could be a lifelong commitment—it’s generally not recommended to stop them without medical guidance. Suddenly discontinuing statins without talking to your healthcare provider could raise your risk of heart attack or stroke, even if you don’t feel immediate symptoms. 

Estradiol, on the other hand, may offer additional benefits beyond heart health. It can support cognitive health, protect bone density, and contribute to overall vitality. In other words, statins can be an effective option for managing cholesterol, but estradiol offers a more well-rounded approach to healthy aging.

Side Effects of Statins vs. Estradiol

As with any medication or hormone therapy, it’s important to consider the potential side effects before making a decision. Let’s take a look at what you might expect with statins vs. estradiol.

Statin Side Effects

  • Muscle Pain: Some men report muscle pain or weakness, which can impact mobility and day-to-day life.
  • Cognitive Issues: There’s some evidence suggesting that statins may affect memory or cognitive function in certain people.
  • Risk of Diabetes: Statins may increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly in people already at risk.

Estradiol Considerations

  • Hormone Balance Concerns: Hormone therapy is safe when monitored by a knowledgeable healthcare provider, but finding the right balance is key.
  • Cardiovascular Benefits: For women, estradiol levels drop to near zero after menopause, which significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Replacing estradiol can help mitigate this risk. Similarly, in men, testosterone replacement therapy leads to a natural conversion to estradiol, which provides heart-protective effects.
  • Minimal Cancer Risk: Studies on bioidentical estradiol show a very low cancer risk, and in some cases, estradiol may even reduce certain cancer risks. Your provider will evaluate individual risk factors to find the best approach for you.

When to See a Doctor for Heart Health

So, when should you consider talking to a healthcare provider about your heart health? Here are a few signs that might mean it’s time to explore your options.

  • High Cholesterol Levels: If you’ve been told your LDL cholesterol is high, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor about actions you can take to get it in check.
  • Family History of Heart Disease: A family history of heart disease can raise your own risk, so it’s smart to be proactive.
  • Menopausal Symptoms (for Women): For women entering menopause, a significant drop in estradiol levels can increase heart disease risk, making it a good time to talk to a provider about your options.
  • Feeling Constantly Drained: If you’re frequently tired or feeling a decline in vitality, it could be tied to hormone changes affecting your cardiovascular health.

Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today

Statins and estradiol offer unique benefits for heart health, each bringing something different to the table. Statins can lower LDL cholesterol, which is valuable for certain people, particularly those who have already experienced an event such as a heart attack or stroke. 

But if you’re looking for a more comprehensive approach that also supports energy, strength, and overall vitality, hormone replacement therapy is a powerful option. At Victory Men’s Health, we know that heart health isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we take a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs. 


Our team will work with you to build a treatment plan that prioritizes your health, vitality, and longevity. Ready to make your heart health a priority? Contact us today to book a consultation and begin your journey to feeling stronger and living better.