The central message that emerged from the meeting is revolutionary in its simplicity: “Healthy nutrition is what allows our body to give its best and therefore to express its potential to the fullest”, explains Dr. Farnetti. There are no miracle foods or foods to demonize, but rather an intelligent approach that considers the person in his or her uniqueness.

A key concept that emerged from the webinar was that of nutrition as an “organ concert.” As Dr. Farnetti emphasizes, protecting an organ means supporting the entire body system by reducing systemic inflammation, one of the main enemies of cardiovascular health.

Chronic low-grade inflammation is in fact the common denominator of many chronic diseases, including heart disease. The nutritional strategy therefore focuses on controlling this process, starting with the management of insulin, the hormone that Dr. Farnetti defines as “the mother of metabolic syndrome”.

One of the most interesting revelations of the webinar concerns the impact of cooking techniques on cardiac health. Pan-frying with extra virgin olive oil, contrary to what one might think, turns out to be the most beneficial for heart patients.

This technique speeds up gastric emptying, reducing abdominal distension, which can be particularly problematic for those with heart disease. As Dr. Maurizi explains: “Gastric distension can trigger arrhythmias. The diaphragm pushes on the heart, which moves less well”.

Contrary to popular belief, extra virgin olive oil is a valuable ally for heart patients. Since it does not contain cholesterol, it cannot increase blood levels; in fact, clinical studies show that it reduces it. Recent research published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine confirms that the appropriate use of olive oil in the Mediterranean diet significantly reduces cardiovascular events.

We have emphasized a crucial concept: “There is no diet for a heart patient, but there is a diet suitable for each of us, for a given day, related to the stage of our illness”. This personalized approach takes into account not only the specific pathology, but also the individual habits, tastes and possibilities of each patient.

The search for the universal “perfect diet” is therefore an outdated concept: it would be like looking for a dress that fits everyone.

One aspect that was particularly appreciated by the webinar participants was the balanced approach to dietary exceptions. Dr. Farnetti introduces the concept of “reward”: first you build a solid foundation of healthy habits, then you can allow yourself the occasional deviation.

“It is not the exception that makes the rule, nor the rule that makes the exception”, explains the doctor. The body that is treated well on a daily basis is able to handle occasional transgressions, while always making exceptions and expecting the body to function well is unrealistic.

The importance of collaboration between specialists is also a fundamental aspect in this case. As Dr. Farnetti highlights: “Every meal is a hormonal project”, an opportunity to reprogram communication between organs. This requires specific skills that go beyond the simple prescription of a standard diet.

The message for patients is clear: rely on competent professionals who can create a personalized nutritional approach, rather than following generic food fads found online.

The webinar highlighted how functional nutrition represents a bridge between traditional medicine and a more holistic approach to health. It is not about replacing pharmacological therapies, but about optimizing the terrain on which they act. It is must therefore have an individual, personalized and professional approach. The medicine of the future passes through this personalization, where each patient receives not only standardized treatments, but a therapeutic path tailored to their specific needs.

The meeting demonstrated how nutrition can transform from a simple daily act into a powerful tool to optimize your cardiovascular health. The final message is one of empowerment: through conscious and personalized food choices, it is possible to actively participate in improving your heart condition and quality of life.

Functional nutrition represents a concrete opportunity for each person to become an active protagonist of their own well-being, working in synergy with the medical team to achieve the best possible results.

AICARM's invitation is to seize this opportunity, seeking the support of qualified professionals to undertake a nutritional path that can truly enhance the management of your cardiac health.