During Heart Health Month in February, Fraser Smith, ND, NUHS assistant dean of naturopathic medicine and president of the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medicine Colleges (AANMC), will present a free webinar Feb. 15 titled “Hidden Things that Can Warp Your Metabolism & Hurt Your Heart.”

“From chemicals in plastics to the dangerous levels of arsenic in well water, toxins are very prevalent in society today,” said Dr. Smith, who specializes in heart health. “More evidence is emerging showing that these toxins are wreaking havoc on our health.”

During the webinar, Dr. Smith will discuss the various environmental factors that impact metabolism and increase an individual’s likelihood of developing heart disease and/or becoming obese. These factors include heavy metals in drinking water, endocrine-disrupting chemicals known as “obesogens” and the high levels of sugar in many foods today.

“The webinar takes a closer look at prevention methods beyond an annual cholesterol check,” Dr. Smith said. “Prospective physicians who attend will discover the real difference they can make in the lives of their future patients.”

Heart disease, in particular, remains the leading cause of death worldwide but can often be prevented through diet and exercise changes. National University continues to contribute important research in the prevention of the prominent illness. Since 2012, NUHS Whole Health Centers have been using state-of-the-art testing from Cleveland HeartLab, Inc. of the Cleveland Clinic to assess a patient’s risk for a heart attack or heart disease. According to Dr. Smith, ND students are already preparing for a clinical trial of these assessments for later this year.

To attend the webinar February 15 from 2 – 3 p.m. eastern time, register at the AANMC website.