Unveiling the Heart: A Holistic Approach to Heart Health

At Root Causes Holistic Health and Medicine, our commitment to your well-being goes beyond alleviating symptoms we strive to uncover the root causes of health issues and guide you toward optimal wellness. Embracing a holistic perspective, we view every patient as an entwined complex puzzle, addressing lifestyle factors, nutrition, and natural therapies to promote balance and well-being. As we head into February, recognized as Heart Health Month, we embark on a journey to explore the profound impact of holistic practices on cardiovascular health, including a spotlight on the groundbreaking TACT-2 study and the benefits of chelation in promoting heart health.

The TACT-2 Study: Unlocking the Power of Chelation Therapy
Historical Context: The TACT-2 (Trial to Assess Chelation Therapy) study builds upon the foundation laid by the original TACT study, initiated in 2003. TACT aimed to explore the potential benefits of chelation therapy, a process designed to remove heavy metals, in individuals with coronary artery disease.

• Motivation Behind the Study: Recognizing that heavy metals like lead and cadmium may contribute to vascular damage and play a role in cardiovascular diseases, the TACT study delved into the potential cardiovascular benefits of chelation therapy. This treatment, already known for addressing heavy metal poisoning, became a subject of interest for its potential to benefit cardiovascular health.

• TACT-2: Advancing Scientific Understanding: Building on the insights gained from the TACT study, TACT-2 seeks to further our understanding of chelation therapy in the realm of cardiovascular health. Specifically, the study investigates whether chelation, combined with high-dose oral vitamins, can reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in individuals with a history of myocardial infarction.

• Randomized Controlled Trial: TACT-2 adheres to a robust randomized controlled trial design, recognized as the gold standard in clinical research. This design allows for a rigorous comparison of outcomes between the group receiving chelation therapy and the group receiving a placebo.

• Inclusion Criteria: Participants in the TACT-2 study are individuals who have previously experienced a heart attack and are at risk for subsequent cardiovascular events. This focused selection aims to evaluate the potential benefits of chelation therapy in a specific high-risk population.

• Holistic Integration: Root Causes Holistic Health and Medicine integrates evidence-based practices, including chelation therapy, into its approach to cardiovascular health. The goal is to empower individuals with holistic solutions that complement traditional medical interventions, recognizing the potential of chelation therapy as part of a comprehensive strategy for heart health.

Holistic Heart Health Practices: Root Causes Holistic Health and Medicine advocates for a comprehensive approach to heart health beyond conventional treatments. Here are the critical components of our holistic strategy:

• Lifestyle Management: Empowering individuals to make sustainable lifestyle choices, such as regular physical activity, stress management, and adequate sleep, forms the foundation of our holistic heart health approach.

• Nutrition: A well-balanced and heart-healthy diet is paramount. We guide individuals in making nutritional choices that support cardiovascular health, emphasizing whole foods and nutrient-dense options.

• Naturally Occurring Compounds and Therapies: Root Causes explores the benefits of naturally occurring compounds and therapies to enhance heart health. Our approach includes evidence-based interventions that align with the principles of holistic medicine.

As we navigate Heart Health Month 2024, Root Causes Holistic Health and Medicine is a beacon of holistic care, addressing the root causes of cardiovascular issues. The TACT-2 study sheds light on the potential benefits of chelation therapy, and our commitment to balance and wellness is evident in our holistic heart health practices. Let us embark on a journey toward heart health together, embracing the power of holistic approaches to achieve optimal well-being.

Root Causes Holistic Health & Medicine
Root Causes Holistic Health and Medicine is committed to helping you achieve optimal health. Our mission is to find the root cause of your symptoms and help you achieve wellness through correcting any contributing factors that can be corrected. We look at you as a whole person, and not just a collection of symptoms to be corrected. We strive for balance and wellness through lifestyle management, nutrition and naturally occurring compounds and therapies whenever possible.

Doreen DeStefano, NhD, APRN, DNP
Dr. DeStefano came to Fort Myers in the early 1980’s, leaving and coming back again several times until finally settling here in 2001. She has a lifelong background in health and wellness that began in middle school when she started running.

Dr. DeStefano is also a lifelong student. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and another in exercise physiology. She has a Masters (ABT) in criminology, a Master’s in public business administration and a Master’s in nursing. She holds a doctorate in natural health and is a licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She holds numerous licenses and certifications from advanced practice training. She continues to attend educational seminars in integrative and functional medicine twice a year to stay abreast of the most recent, cutting edge therapies available.

Her practice is centered on naturopathic principles that include healing the whole person on various levels and avoiding pharmaceutical intervention unless absolutely necessary. She believes your health Is within your control. Her goal is to help you achieve maximum health.

Root Causes
Holistic Health and Medicine

12734 Kenwood Lane. Ft Myers, FL 33907

239-425-2900 | www.rtcausesmd.com