This course is designed for individuals with high blood pressure, those taking medication for hypertension, and anyone interested in preventing heart attack and cardiovascular disease.
Based on Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease by Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn — former Cleveland Clinic surgeon and researcher — the program explores compelling evidence showing that coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death in the Western world, is largely preventable and, in many cases, reversible through nutrition.
Dr. Esselstyn’s research demonstrates that a whole-food, plant-based, oil-free diet can stop the progression of heart disease and often reverse arterial blockages without drugs or surgery. His 20-year clinical study documented patients with severe coronary artery disease who achieved measurable improvement through this dietary approach alone.
This class is the first in a five-part Culinary Medicine series focused on improving health while enjoying satisfying, flavorful food. Participants may enroll in a single class or attend all five sessions, held on Mondays.
Heart Health & Cardiovascular Wellness
Cardiovascular disease accounts for approximately one in four deaths in the United States. Most heart attacks are linked to modifiable lifestyle factors, including dietary risks such as red and processed meat, saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, excess sodium, and inadequate fiber.
Research shows that plant-based nutrition offers powerful benefits for cardiovascular health, including:
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Improved blood pressure control
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Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress
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Lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol
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Improved insulin regulation
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Reduced body weight
A strict low-fat (approximately 10%) whole-food, plant-based diet has been shown to reduce serum cholesterol levels to 150 mg/dL or less — a range associated with significantly lower cardiovascular risk. Populations consuming predominantly plant-based diets consistently demonstrate the lowest rates of cardiovascular disease.
Class Format
Each session focuses on a specific body system and includes:
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Health education
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Cooking demonstrations
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Skill-building strategies
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A full shared meal
Five-Part Series Schedule
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3/24 — Cardiovascular:
Salsas, Dips & All the Good Bits -
4/7 — Neurological:
Rise and Thrive — The Power of a Whole Food Plant-Based Breakfast -
4/14 — Endocrine:
Grateful Table — Whole Food Plant-Based Thanksgiving -
4/21 — Gastrointestinal:
The Healing Gut Kitchen — Food as Medicine for Digestive Health
(Soups, salads, fermented vegetables, and kombucha) -
4/28 — Musculoskeletal & Whole-Body Health:
Nourish Bowls with Hummus
Participants may register for all five sessions or attend individual classes. Each course provides practical tools and inspiration to support heart health through delicious, nourishing food.