Family-on-Bike

You Were Made for Health!

Welcome to RIFM!

Thank you for for trusting us with your time. We believe you were made for health ... but it’s hard to harness your body’s remarkable power to heal when you’re dealing with a broken healthcare system, confusion, and misinformation. We help you restore your health & hope with science-backed solutions, so you can live the vibrant life you were made for.

The Most Trusted Functional Medicine Practice in Richmond.

google

Love Jodi. Very thorough and personable.

Rebecca Bae July 17, 2025
google

RIFM has provided quality care for my complex conditions (POTS, MCAS, hyper mobility) and I feel extremely lucky to be a patient of theirs. I have been dismissed by many doctors who thought my symptoms were just anxiety. After many years and seeing many doctors I was finally diagnosed with POTS. I thought the hard part was over, but I was wrong. Finding a doctor who wants to treat POTS is even harder. Dr. Hartman doesn't shy away from hard. I've seen Dr. Hartman for many years and he is one of the smartest doctors I've ever come across. He listens, understands, and partners with you to come up with solutions to help manage my conditions. He has run tests that most doctors don't that have uncovered causes of some of my symptoms. He is constantly learning new information, thinks outside the box, and shares this knowledge with his patients. Not only have I had such positive experiences with Dr. Hartman, but I have had positive experiences with both of his nurse practitioners Jodi Caddell and Veronica Porterfield. Recently, Ms. Porterfield saw me for an illness and possible tick bite infection and she spent so much time with me and followed up with me when I was having issues and questions, even calling me on her personal time on a Sunday night. Never have I felt more cared for. I have not seen Dr. Jenski but know people who do see him and have just as amazing things to say about him. RIFM is filled with providers who truly care about you and want to help you find solutions to feel your best. Don't hesitate to join this practice - you won't regret it!

Kim Allen July 16, 2025
google

Veronica was great as always and wicked smart and such a wonderful bedside manner. A great asset to Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine. Angela was also great and everyone from front to back was very nice!

Elizabeth Jordan July 11, 2025
google

So grateful for this place and for how my family's life is being changed through their care! I've never had someone (with the exception of a midwife during pregnancy) take the time to really hear about all my concerns and see how they are linked together.

Katelyn James June 10, 2025
google

I love working on my health with Dr Jenski and his team. He really listens and takes my concerns seriously. After many many years of having my symptoms either dismissed or not finding anything wrong with me, Dr Jenski knew almost immediately what the problem was…mold. Bloodwork confirmed it. Now that my home is finally remediated, I’m on my way to great health!

ME Davis May 13, 2025
google

Very comprehensive care plan and follow ups. Really spends the time to understand your individual health needs.

Debbie Sexton March 23, 2025
google

I feel cared for by every person who works here - from the front desk to the lab, this is wholistic care.

Ginny Hood February 23, 2025
google

I cannot say enough great things about RIFM!! I have been working with Dr. Jenski for over three years and he has helped me in multiple ways. He found answers to my baffling symptoms through his remarkable knowledge and rounds of lab work. While a slow process to healing, I'm getting there. No other doctors in Richmond were able to figure out the root causes of my metabolic issues!! I highly recommend RIFM!!!

Peg Andrae February 19, 2025
google

The doctor listened to my concerns snd explained things thoroughly.

Kathy Flouras January 16, 2025
google

When my other doctors said, "I can't help you, find another doctor," I found Dr. Hartman. He has helped me go from nearly bed ridden to fully functional in a year, with a plan to get even better. He listens carefully, synthesizes all the info, does extensive testing, and based on test results and diverse symptoms, develops a plan for eating, lifestyle, supplements and minimal pharmaceuticals that has gradually helped me get my life back. He is thoughtful, kind, smart, responsive to inquiries, and actually, sort of fun. He is an amazing doctor, I couldn't recommend him and his staff more highly.

Amy R. Mills January 14, 2025
google

Dr. Hartman takes the time to answer all your questions and you can tell he really cares and wants to see you get better

Malinda Sherman January 14, 2025
google

I see Jodi at RFIC. I cannot be more pleased with the level of attention and service!

Chad Burroughs January 6, 2025
google

Dr. Hartman has been incredibly creative, thorough and helpful as I continue my health journey. He has not only helped me , but my dad and brother as well! The staff here is excellent and I leave feeling in good spirits after every visit

Adair Ziegler December 17, 2024
google

Wonderful staff, starting in admissions at the front desk, the nurses, the phlebotomist and Dr Hartman is amazing! He is knowledgeable and up to date on current treatments testing research and takes time to listen and investigate!

Kristi Gregory November 26, 2024
google

This is not your usual doctor's office! It was amazing to walk into a peaceful place with smiling helpful staff and a doctor who listened and taught during the 1 1/2 hour intake appointment. I left my appointment feeling like I had finally found a truly caring practice and with a more positive outlook on my future health span. I actually look forward to future appointments!

Laurin Wittig November 2, 2024
google

I have never been treated so well by an entire doctors office—front desk, phlebotomist, and NP. They are absolutely wonderful every single time. And they work to get to the root cause of issues not just treat symptoms. Highly highly recommend!

Laura Harrell October 28, 2024
google

These doctors are fantastic. I trust Dr. Jenski completely. He is extremely knowledgeable, personable and brilliant. I value him beyond belief in guiding and helping me get to the healthiest me I can be.

Anne Decker October 21, 2024
google

I'm a patient of Dr Jenski's and I am very satisfied with my service. The whole office is delightful and Dr Jenski is always willing to go down rabbit holes with my numerous questions to make sure I really understand things. I'd recommend this office to anyone.

Will Phillips September 28, 2024
google

Dr. Jenski and his staff are incredible. The care I have received has given me back my quality of life! i feel incredibly fortunate to have this exceptional level of practitioner right here in RVA. I had a high level of constant pain and I am at zero consistently. I would travel across the country for the care I’m receiving, and I highly recommend this practice.

Carrie Meeker August 28, 2024
google

All staff are knowledgeable and friendly. They take time to listen to your questions and concerns. The Dr. Hartman does a deep dive to know all of your underlying health issues and for areas that need improvement he sets out detailed, achievable goals providing information on supplements and medications if needed. The Nurse Practitioner is available and knowledgeable and can answer and advise treatment for routine health issues. I would highly recommend this practice. The practice of functional medicine along with traditional has been very beneficial.

John Voelker August 22, 2024
google

Dr. Jenski is beyond amazing - as a nurse I trusted him with my health, and he literally brought me back to life.

Maureen Puma July 30, 2024
google

These people saved my life. Single most worthwhile investment in myself I've ever made.

google

What a great experience from the time I walked in the door. Everyone was professional and did a good job of making me feel comfortable. Them phlebotomist was amazing considering I had a slew of labs drawn that took awhile but she made me Feel completely at ease. Thank you!😊

Michelle Powers July 2, 2024
google

I have just been with the practice a few months but I already feel so much better. It is remarkable how the process of addressing the body as a whole verses treating symptoms can resolve so many seemingly independent issues. I am very grateful to the team at RIFM for providing such wonderful care.

Sheri Tew July 1, 2024
google

From check in to check out everyone was super nice and friendly..even the vampire taking the blood samples!

Dee Trotter May 22, 2024
google

Excellent professional care from welcoming front desk staff, friendly, efficient & professional nurse to a super special phlebotomist who was calm and a "superstar" at small veins! Dr Jenski is warm, professional and extremely intelligent. He explained the information well and allowed time for questions and dialogue. Highly recommend without any reservations!!

Joy Bressler May 15, 2024
google

We are patients of Dr. Jenski and Jodi Caddell NP. We absolutely love the personalized care provided on both the primary care side and the functional medicine side. Dr. Jenski is brilliant and is constantly thinking about the very best way to care for his patients. I only wish everyone had a physician like Dr. Jenski. We are so happy to have found RIFM in 2019 and continue to be pleased with the care we receive. The office staff, the nurse (shout out to Sydney!), the phlebotomist Angela, everyone... thank you!

google

I have felt quite cared for in this practice and the office staff all are very attentive and caring. The level of care is high and holistic. Having the NP, Jodi there as part of the team is a great addition and very appreciated.

Neda McGuire May 2, 2024
google

Wonderful initial consultation. I feel confident that I've chosen wisely in engaging RIFM to partner with on my health journey. Thank you!

google

The Staff at RIFM are professional and friendly. They try their best to help you with your medical condition in a wholistic way and not just the symptoms but the root causes of your illness. They will try many methods to help you be in the best health.

E Hicks April 30, 2024
google

Top tier experience! Their mission and unwavering support is a breath of fresh air when it comes to healthcare.

Wes Edwards April 18, 2024
google

My wife and I have been patients of Dr. Hartman since 2018. He is, by far, one of the most thorough and thoughtful physicians I have ever experienced. His willingness to dig down to identify and treat the causes of our issues is greatly appreciated. He routinely thinks out of the box, and explores alternative therapies to treat what ails us. What we also appreciate is his willingness to take time with us and not rush through our appointments. Our health has improved significantly since we have joined his practice. I have met with Dr. Jodi his nurse practitioner, several times. She is friendly and thorough. All of his staff make us feel welcome every time we are there. It is wonderful to have a physician and staff that we trust completely!

David Kartzman April 18, 2024
google

Dr Hartman and his staff provide great service. Love this practice.

Stephanie Gits April 14, 2024
google

Excellent care. RIFM strives to treat the cause rather than address the symptoms.

Tim Tonn April 12, 2024
google

Dr. Hartman has helped me and my family for several years. He is a great integrative and functional medicine doctor, and has a wealth of knowledge on how to address chronic health conditions. I highly recommend Dr. Hartman.

Jeffrey Sanborn April 1, 2024
google

The staff goes out of their way to accommodate unexpected needs.

Jane G April 1, 2024
google

If you have an inflammatory, autoimmune or post viral illness, this is the place to go. The complexity of these “mystery” illnesses requires time that normal doctors are’t going to take. Nor are they trained to do so. With proper testing, they will discover what is triggering your illness and then treat it. It’s going to take time to heal and they are right there with you all of the way. All of the staff are friendly and knowledgable. Its a different kind of healthcare and yes, its worth the cost.

Morag Weatherhead March 28, 2024
google

The practitioners, Jodi Caddell in particular, and the nursing & administrative staffs are top notch in their care and professionalism.

David Turner March 26, 2024
google

I'm 67 years old and have never experienced this level of comprehensive, professional, and reliable medical service anywhere in the Richmond area or any other place I've ever lived for that matter. The environment is friendly, warm, and relaxing. The medical staff is incredibly knowledgeable, personable, and talented. It's well worth the investment in yourself.

Michael Fenster December 13, 2023
google

I went today for my first appointment. The practice is better than any that I have experienced and Jodi Caddell is the perfect addition! Jodi spends the time needed with her patients and more importantly, Jodi Caddell is kind and compassionate, something that you rarely find today. I am excited to see how my health improves now that I am going to Richmond Functional and Integrative!

Cathy Burton December 7, 2023
google

Dr. Hartman and the RIFM team are top notch. Thorough and personalized care from friendly and knowledgeable experts. Highly recommend to anyone considering.

John Ziegler November 27, 2023
google

Richmond IFM is a great resource for anyone who wishes to change bad lifestyle choices. A range of tests is done to determine your current health which leads to a plan for improvement! The staff takes time to greet and find out how they can help? Dr. Jenski, my Doctor, is fantastic in the way he delves into all possibilities of causes and treatments. I'm very happy with RIFM and their friendly staff.

May Roy November 14, 2023
google

Excellent care. SO refreshing and meaningful to me. Over 10 years of providers minimized/ignored my symptoms, and/or just wanted to give me a "band-aid" for symptoms instead of trying to find the root cause. THANK YOU to the WHOLE team - front desk, phlebotomist, nurses, to my Dr. I finally have hope that I will be able to participate in my life.

Caroline November 7, 2023
google

Dr. Jenski listens well, spending about 1.5hr the first appointment thoroughly discussing what I was experiencing health-wise and providing guidance and a plan. The 1hr follow-up appointment was an in-depth charted look at lab results, with him explaining findings in a patient and easy-to-understand way. I was given a plan to follow, a binder full of information, and next steps. It’s also worth noting that he is respectful of my plant-based diet and provides helpful suggestions and alternatives accordingly. His holistic approach to getting to the root cause(s) of concerns and improving health is greatly appreciated. Everyone on the team has been kind and helpful. I’m looking forward to continuing this healing journey at RIFM, and I’m grateful for Dr. Jenski and the team’s support.

Brianna Jiménez October 30, 2023
google

Wonderful practice. Dr. Jenski listens to his patients and takes a truly holistic approach to wellness and medicine. He's the only doctor that has had any significant impact on my chronic conditions. I can't recommend him enough!

Kyle L. October 24, 2023
google

Dr. Hartman has improved my health tremendously. I can't thank him enough for all of his excellent guidance, his open mindedness and his leading edge approaches. I experience him to be an extremely bright, caring and devoted physician. Thank you Dr. Hartman! I'm back again to affirm my previous review a year ago of Dr. Hartman and his entire staff. Starting with the receptionist at the front desk, she made me and my wife feel welcomed and cared for. It's so nice to walk in the door and be greeted by such warmth and joy. The medical assistant who did my initial check in and vitals was also very warm, kind and professional. It's always great to have an appointment with Dr. Hartman. He is clearly dedicated to helping his patients achieve optimum health. I have fun seeing him as he can look at my health conditions from different angles, and he discovers and uses approaches that have never been considered by my other doctors. He has helped me tremendously. He also has a great personality and bedside manner. Thank you to all of the staff at RIFM for your warmth and healing environment! (The office is beautiful too:)

Thomas T. October 18, 2023
google

Oh, where to start with Dr. Aaron Hartman and his incredible team at Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine? Honestly, it's a blessing to have a practitioner who doesn't just treat symptoms but listens deeply, understands thoroughly, and crafts a plan that looks at the big picture of your health journey. This isn't just about dealing with the now; it's about setting you on a path that takes your long-term well-being into account. The folks at Richmond don’t just know their stuff, they bring so much kindness and efficiency to their practice, making every interaction smooth and every visit a genuinely pleasant experience. From your first step into their space, it's evident that you’re not just a patient; you’re a valued individual whose wellness journey matters deeply to them. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hartman and team for not just being extraordinary at what they do, but for reshaping the healthcare experience in RVA into something so profoundly patient-centered and compassionate. It’s a glowing recommendation from this corner, no doubt!

George Valashinas October 15, 2023
google

I’ve been a patient since RIFM opened and with Dr.Hartman more than 15 years. Love the practice — friendly, knowledgeable staff, beautiful environment, and patient-focused care. Have learned so much about my health and how best to support living my life to the fullest. Highly recommend.

A M October 3, 2023
google

My experience with Dr. Jenski and his staff has been so refreshing. They are thoughtful, thorough, knowledgeable and patient. As a person with health anxiety, I generally have loads of questions and Dr. Jenski always takes his time answering them with great care and consideration. And, I never thought I would say this, but I adore the phlebotomist. She is AMAZING. She it personable, funny and excellent at her job. Truly. I feel so blessed to have found these doctors!

Amber Spivey October 3, 2023
google

Dr. Hartman and his staff were warm, intelligent and efficient. I never leave reviews, this is how impressed I am with the quality of care given. Dr. Hartman if among the precious few physicians who thinks critically and is able to diverge from the pat answers and bandaid care that has left me unwell for so many years.

Amy Marquis September 19, 2023

Featured In

Restore Your Health & Hope

Explore Membership

Blog
All
  • All
  • 2024 Highlight
  • 2025 Highlight
  • Allergies
  • Anti-Aging
  • Cancer
  • Coach's Corner
  • COVID
  • Dentistry & Oral Health
  • Detox
  • Fasting
  • FM Primer
  • Food Plans
  • Food Systems
  • Functional Medicine
  • Functional Primary Care
  • Gut
  • Heart Disease
  • Hormones
  • Hypermobility
  • Inflammation
  • Insulin Resistance
  • Lyme / Chronic Infections
  • Men’s Health
  • Metabolic Syndrome
  • Mold / CIRS
  • Mystery Illnesses
  • Nutrition
  • Organic
  • Parenting
  • Podcast
  • Recipe
  • Skin
  • Sleep
  • Social Media
  • Stress
  • Supplements
  • The Triangle of Health
  • Trauma
  • Uncategorized
  • UnCURABLE
  • Vitamin D
  • Women’s Health

Mystery Illnesses | Part 3

CIRS: The Poster Child of “Mystery Illnesses”

When Environmental Illness Hides in Plain Sight

Many chronic illnesses appear mysterious because symptoms cross multiple systems. Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) may explain why.

Mystery Illnesses | Part 2

The Great Imitators

When Infection Doesn’t Look Like Infection

Some infections hide behind fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and gut issues. Learn how “great imitator” diseases can mimic other conditions and delay diagnosis.

Mystery Illnesses

The Myth of “Mystery Illness”

If your labs are “normal” but you don’t feel well, the mystery may be the model. A conversation on fragmentation, autoimmunity, and systems.

When Perimenopause & Chronic Stress Collide

Why Some Women Struggle Even After Their Hormones Are Balanced

Some women still feel wired, reactive, and sleepless in perimenopause even with “balanced” labs and HRT. Here’s where stress physiology fits in holistic hormone therapy.

What If We Were Wrong About Food?

The Unintended Consequences of Getting Nutrition “Right”

What if some of our biggest nutrition problems didn’t come from eating the wrong foods, but from removing the ones our bodies needed?

Functional Dentistry

Oral Health & Inflammation

What Functional Dentists Actually Look For (And Why)

You can sleep through the night and still never recover. Functional dentists are noticing why airway, breathing, and oral inflammation matter more than most people realize.

YouTube Series

The Quiet Redefinition of Thyroid Disease

Aaron Hartman MD February 17, 2026 5:30 pm

Blood pressure problems don’t stop at the arteries.

In Part 5 of our Metabolic Cardiology series, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski explore how chronic hypertension, vascular stiffness, and metabolic dysfunction lead to electrical problems in the heart — including arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation, PVCs, and conduction abnormalities.

This episode explains why heart rhythm issues are often the downstream result of long-standing vascular and metabolic stress, not isolated electrical failures.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:
• Why uncontrolled blood pressure precedes many electrical heart disorders
• How vascular stiffness and microvascular disease affect cardiac rhythm
• The progression from hypertension to atrial enlargement and arrhythmias
• Why “borderline” blood pressure still signals future cardiovascular risk
• How nutrient deficiencies, sleep apnea, hormones, and toxins disrupt heart rhythm
• What EKGs, Holter monitors, and rhythm changes actually reveal
• Why many electrical heart issues are reversible when root causes are addressed

This is metabolic cardiology in practice: understanding heart disease as a systems problem: plumbing, electricity, metabolism, and environment working together.




GO DEEPER


View the Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhoUqRYQS9WwRlTlX9xR7uVC



CHAPTERS

00:00 — Metabolic Cardiology and Electrical Heart Disease
02:00 — Why Blood Pressure Comes Before Arrhythmias
05:00 — What “Normal” Blood Pressure Misses
08:30 — Vascular Stiffness and Heart Remodeling
12:00 — From Hypertension to Electrical Instability
16:00 — Atrial Fibrillation and Rhythm Disorders Explained
20:30 — Nutrient Deficiencies and Heart Rhythm
24:30 — Stress, Sleep Apnea, and Electrical Risk
29:30 — When Arrhythmias Become Dangerous
34:30 — Can Electrical Heart Problems Be Reversed?





ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

Blood pressure problems don’t stop at the arteries.

In Part 5 of our Metabolic Cardiology series, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski explore how chronic hypertension, vascular stiffness, and metabolic dysfunction lead to electrical problems in the heart — including arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation, PVCs, and conduction abnormalities.

This episode explains why heart rhythm issues are often the downstream result of long-standing vascular and metabolic stress, not isolated electrical failures.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:
• Why uncontrolled blood pressure precedes many electrical heart disorders
• How vascular stiffness and microvascular disease affect cardiac rhythm
• The progression from hypertension to atrial enlargement and arrhythmias
• Why “borderline” blood pressure still signals future cardiovascular risk
• How nutrient deficiencies, sleep apnea, hormones, and toxins disrupt heart rhythm
• What EKGs, Holter monitors, and rhythm changes actually reveal
• Why many electrical heart issues are reversible when root causes are addressed

This is metabolic cardiology in practice: understanding heart disease as a systems problem: plumbing, electricity, metabolism, and environment working together.




GO DEEPER


View the Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhoUqRYQS9WwRlTlX9xR7uVC



CHAPTERS

00:00 — Metabolic Cardiology and Electrical Heart Disease
02:00 — Why Blood Pressure Comes Before Arrhythmias
05:00 — What “Normal” Blood Pressure Misses
08:30 — Vascular Stiffness and Heart Remodeling
12:00 — From Hypertension to Electrical Instability
16:00 — Atrial Fibrillation and Rhythm Disorders Explained
20:30 — Nutrient Deficiencies and Heart Rhythm
24:30 — Stress, Sleep Apnea, and Electrical Risk
29:30 — When Arrhythmias Become Dangerous
34:30 — Can Electrical Heart Problems Be Reversed?





ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

4 4

YouTube Video UEwxektpdFo1dUFocFdQSGFZb3FvM29icjh1QlFGUzdkYS5DQjg2RDQyMEVGQkZFOEVF

Blood Pressure, Arrhythmias, and the Electrical Side of Heart Disease

Aaron Hartman MD February 10, 2026 8:03 pm

Cholesterol is one of the most misunderstood topics in cardiovascular health.

In Part 4 of our Metabolic Cardiology series, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski break down cholesterol, lipids, and advanced lipid markers through a vascular aging and metabolic lens—going far beyond the standard “good vs bad cholesterol” conversation.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • Why cholesterol itself is not the root cause of heart disease
 • What optimal cholesterol ranges look like for overall longevity
 • The difference between LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and particle number
 • Why oxidized LDL and dysfunctional HDL matter more than total cholesterol
 • How inflammation, oxidative stress, hormones, and metabolism affect lipid markers
 • Why many people with “normal cholesterol” still develop heart disease
 • How cholesterol fits into the larger picture of vascular age and cardiovascular risk

This conversation shows how metabolic cardiology reframes cholesterol—not as a single number to suppress, but as a signal that must be interpreted in context.




GO DEEPER

This is Part 4 of a five-part series on Metabolic Cardiology, where we explore cardiovascular and neurovascular disease as problems of vascular aging, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction.

View the Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhoUqRYQS9WwRlTlX9xR7uVC&si=oVZ1saV-PAjwOKtS




CHAPTERS

00:00 — Why Cholesterol Is Misunderstood

01:10 — Cholesterol vs Heart Disease: The Real Context

03:00 — What a Standard Lipid Panel Actually Tells Us

05:00 — LDL: When It Matters and Why

07:00 — Oxidized LDL and Particle Number

09:00 — Why HDL Isn’t Always Protective

11:00 — Triglycerides and Metabolic Signals

13:00 — Ratios That Reveal Hidden Risk

15:30 — Advanced Lipids: Lp(a) and Beyond

18:00 — Inflammation, Oxidative Stress & Risk

20:30 — Diet, Detox, and Lipid Function

23:30 — How Advanced Testing Changes Treatment





ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

Cholesterol is one of the most misunderstood topics in cardiovascular health.

In Part 4 of our Metabolic Cardiology series, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski break down cholesterol, lipids, and advanced lipid markers through a vascular aging and metabolic lens—going far beyond the standard “good vs bad cholesterol” conversation.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why cholesterol itself is not the root cause of heart disease
• What optimal cholesterol ranges look like for overall longevity
• The difference between LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and particle number
• Why oxidized LDL and dysfunctional HDL matter more than total cholesterol
• How inflammation, oxidative stress, hormones, and metabolism affect lipid markers
• Why many people with “normal cholesterol” still develop heart disease
• How cholesterol fits into the larger picture of vascular age and cardiovascular risk

This conversation shows how metabolic cardiology reframes cholesterol—not as a single number to suppress, but as a signal that must be interpreted in context.




GO DEEPER

This is Part 4 of a five-part series on Metabolic Cardiology, where we explore cardiovascular and neurovascular disease as problems of vascular aging, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction.

View the Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhoUqRYQS9WwRlTlX9xR7uVC&si=oVZ1saV-PAjwOKtS




CHAPTERS

00:00 — Why Cholesterol Is Misunderstood

01:10 — Cholesterol vs Heart Disease: The Real Context

03:00 — What a Standard Lipid Panel Actually Tells Us

05:00 — LDL: When It Matters and Why

07:00 — Oxidized LDL and Particle Number

09:00 — Why HDL Isn’t Always Protective

11:00 — Triglycerides and Metabolic Signals

13:00 — Ratios That Reveal Hidden Risk

15:30 — Advanced Lipids: Lp(a) and Beyond

18:00 — Inflammation, Oxidative Stress & Risk

20:30 — Diet, Detox, and Lipid Function

23:30 — How Advanced Testing Changes Treatment





ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

14 3

YouTube Video UEwxektpdFo1dUFocFdQSGFZb3FvM29icjh1QlFGUzdkYS4wQUE0QzM4MkJGQ0YwQjUx

Understanding Cholesterol Through the Lens of Metabolic Cardiology

Aaron Hartman MD February 3, 2026 6:18 pm

Heart Disease Through the Lens of Metabolic Cardiology

Aaron Hartman MD January 6, 2026 4:22 pm

Hypertension Through the Lens of Metabolic Cardiology

Aaron Hartman MD December 30, 2025 11:00 am

What if your true age isn’t determined by your birthday—but by your blood vessels?

In this episode of Made For Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski introduce a new clinical framework they call Metabolic Cardiology, a way of understanding heart, brain, and vascular health through metabolism, inflammation, and immune regulation.



The central idea is simple but rarely discussed:

You are only as old as your arteries.



Long before heart attacks, strokes, or cognitive decline appear, the inner lining of your blood vessels (the endothelium) begins to change. These changes can start 20–30 years before symptoms, yet most conventional testing doesn’t detect them until damage is advanced.



In this conversation, Dr. Hartman and Dr. Jenski explain:

* Why vascular age matters more than chronological age
* How the endothelium functions as the body’s largest endocrine organ
* The three finite mechanisms that damage blood vessels—regardless of the cause
* Why inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction are upstream drivers of cardiovascular disease
* How genetics influence risk without determining destiny



This episode serves as the foundation for an upcoming series on Metabolic Cardiology, where we’ll explore hypertension, stroke, arrhythmias, and vascular aging through a metabolic and systems-based lens.





WHAT’S  NEXT? 

If you want to watch more interviews from the Made for Health series, check out our playlist below!

Made for Health Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhpWPHaYoqo3obr8uBQFS7da






ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

What if your true age isn’t determined by your birthday—but by your blood vessels?

In this episode of Made For Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski introduce a new clinical framework they call Metabolic Cardiology, a way of understanding heart, brain, and vascular health through metabolism, inflammation, and immune regulation.



The central idea is simple but rarely discussed:

You are only as old as your arteries.



Long before heart attacks, strokes, or cognitive decline appear, the inner lining of your blood vessels (the endothelium) begins to change. These changes can start 20–30 years before symptoms, yet most conventional testing doesn’t detect them until damage is advanced.



In this conversation, Dr. Hartman and Dr. Jenski explain:

* Why vascular age matters more than chronological age
* How the endothelium functions as the body’s largest endocrine organ
* The three finite mechanisms that damage blood vessels—regardless of the cause
* Why inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction are upstream drivers of cardiovascular disease
* How genetics influence risk without determining destiny



This episode serves as the foundation for an upcoming series on Metabolic Cardiology, where we’ll explore hypertension, stroke, arrhythmias, and vascular aging through a metabolic and systems-based lens.





WHAT’S NEXT?

If you want to watch more interviews from the Made for Health series, check out our playlist below!

Made for Health Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhpWPHaYoqo3obr8uBQFS7da






ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

13 1

YouTube Video UEwxektpdFo1dUFocFdQSGFZb3FvM29icjh1QlFGUzdkYS5EMzJDRTUwQjBEOUVFQzAw

Your Arteries Are Your Age: Introducing Metabolic Cardiology

Aaron Hartman MD December 23, 2025 3:00 pm

Why We’ve Been Wrong About Fat, Cholesterol, and Real Food for 100 Years

Aaron Hartman MD January 27, 2026 11:01 am

In this episode,  I break down why so many people stay sick for years despite seeing multiple specialists—and why the real answers often lie in hidden factors like trauma, mast cells, environmental triggers, and an overwhelmed nervous system.

These issues can look completely unrelated on the surface, which is why they’re so frequently dismissed or misdiagnosed. Once you understand these patterns, the puzzle pieces start falling into place, and healing becomes much more possible.

My goal is to help you understand how these systems interact so you can finally start making sense of what’s been happening in your body.




W H A T ‘ S   N E X T ? 


If you want to watch more interviews from the Made for Health series, check out our playlist below!

Made for Health Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhpWPHaYoqo3obr8uBQFS7da


Read more about Mystery Illness on our blog: 
https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/demystifying-pots/



ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

In this episode, I break down why so many people stay sick for years despite seeing multiple specialists—and why the real answers often lie in hidden factors like trauma, mast cells, environmental triggers, and an overwhelmed nervous system.

These issues can look completely unrelated on the surface, which is why they’re so frequently dismissed or misdiagnosed. Once you understand these patterns, the puzzle pieces start falling into place, and healing becomes much more possible.

My goal is to help you understand how these systems interact so you can finally start making sense of what’s been happening in your body.




W H A T ‘ S N E X T ?


If you want to watch more interviews from the Made for Health series, check out our playlist below!

Made for Health Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1zKitZ5uAhpWPHaYoqo3obr8uBQFS7da


Read more about Mystery Illness on our blog:
https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/demystifying-pots/



ABOUT AARON HARTMAN, MD

Aaron Hartman, MD is a triple-board-certified physician, bestselling author of UnCURABLE: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Hartman is known as _the champion of the medically abandoned_—helping people once labeled “uncurable” find REAL health and hope through the body’s natural abilities to heal and repair.

https://AaronHartmanMD.com



Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more content like this!

— Aaron Hartman, MD

10 2

YouTube Video UEwxektpdFo1dUFocFdQSGFZb3FvM29icjh1QlFGUzdkYS44QTY2MEEzNzBFQUJCMUQ2

Your Nervous System Is Lying

Aaron Hartman MD December 16, 2025 5:48 pm

When Parkinson's Isn't Parkinson's

Aaron Hartman MD December 8, 2025 3:34 pm

Podcast

Made for Health

with Aaron Hartman, MD

Made for Health Cover Image: Aaron Hartman MD in his kitchen

You were made for health—vibrant, thriving, and full of possibility. But navigating today’s broken healthcare system, endless misinformation, and confusion can feel overwhelming. On Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman cuts through the noise to deliver science-backed solutions that restore your health and reignite your hope. Join us each week for expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring conversations that empower you to harness your body’s incredible power to heal. Whether you're seeking clarity, direction, or just a trusted voice, this podcast is your roadmap to the vibrant life you were made for.

Listen on Your Favorite Podcast App!