PLANTSTRONG Podcast Ep. 326: Lauren Bernick - Told She'd Have a Heart Attack Soon. She Wasn't Having It.
Nov 6, 2025
Lauren Bernick, host of Age Like a Badass Mother and creator of WellElephant.com, shares her inspiring journey of overcoming advanced heart disease at 46 through a whole food, plant-based lifestyle. She candidly discusses rejecting statins, the profound health improvements she experienced, and how to navigate social situations while maintaining her diet. Lauren also emphasizes the importance of family support, her favorite meals, and the relief from chronic headaches. Today, she feels free and energized, encouraging others facing health challenges to embrace a plant-based journey.
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Fangirling Moment With The Esselstyns
- Lauren once excitedly accosted Rip Esselstyn and his wife in public, much to her family's embarrassment.
- She recounts fangirling at a movie theater on Father's Day and her kids covering their eyes.
Blindsided By Early Heart Disease
- At 46 Lauren was diagnosed with significant coronary artery disease after a calcium CT showed high calcification and blockages in two arteries.
- Her cardiologist predicted a heart attack in 5–10 years and immediately recommended a statin, which prompted her to seek other options.
Dive In Fully For 30 Days
- After hearing the prognosis Lauren read Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease and immediately switched to a no-added-oil whole food plant-based diet.
- She recommends diving in fully rather than dabbling to let your palate and habits change.
