Cardiovascular health and longevity are deeply influenced by aging, perimenopause, and systemic changes that extend far beyond cholesterol markers alone. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Kiran Krishnan to explore the biology of vascular aging, endothelial dysfunction, and metabolic changes that emerge in midlife and beyond. As estrogen declines during perimenopause, patients often experience shifts in lipid metabolism, weight regulation, and overall metabolic resilience—driving increased cardiovascular risk. This conversation dives into the critical role of the endothelial glycocalyx, nitric oxide signaling, and the gut microbiome in maintaining vascular integrity and systemic health. Dr. Fitzgerald and Kiran connect the dots between gut health, cardiovascular disease, joint degeneration, and systemic inflammation, offering a systems biology approach that is highly relevant for functional medicine practitioners. You’ll also hear how targeted interventions—specifically Arterosil, Vascanox, and Cartigenix—can be used synergistically to support endothelial health, nitric oxide production, microbial balance, and joint integrity. Topics covered include: - Endothelial glycocalyx dysfunction and cardiovascular risk - Nitric oxide signaling and vascular health - Perimenopause, estrogen decline, and metabolic changes - Gut microbiome influence on cardiovascular and joint health - Anabolic vs catabolic balance in aging - Clinical applications for Arterosil, Vascanox, and Cartigenix - Moving beyond LDL: a systems-based approach to heart health This episode provides a clinically grounded, functional medicine perspective on aging, cardiovascular disease prevention, and whole-body resilience. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Kiran Krishnan is a research microbiologist and health expert with over 20 years of experience in the microbiome and human health space. He is the co-founder of Microbiome Labs, a leading microbiome therapeutics company focused on supporting healthcare professionals. Kiran has conducted and published research in scientific journals, contributed to academic textbooks, and holds multiple global patents. He is a widely recognized speaker known for translating complex microbiome science into practical, clinically relevant insights. THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR Calroy From circulation to cognition, heart health to joint mobility, Calroy develops clinically validated supplements with patented ingredients that restore and protect the body’s foundations.* Head to http://calroy.com/drkf to learn more about resources and discounts. *This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. CONNECT with DrKF Want more? Join our newsletter here: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/newsletter/ Or take our pop quiz and test your BioAge! https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/bioagequiz YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/hjpc8daz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkarafitzgerald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrKaraFitzgerald/ DrKF Clinic: Patient consults with DrKF physicians including Younger You Concierge: https://tinyurl.com/yx4fjhkb Younger You Practitioner Training Program: www.drkarafitzgerald.com/trainingyyi/ Younger You book: https://tinyurl.com/mr4d9tym Better Broths and Healing Tonics book: https://tinyurl.com/3644mrfw
