Heart disease? That’s a “man’s issue,” right? Wrong. In this truth-bomb-packed episode of The Forties Formula podcast , hosts Jasmin Dhillon and Amanda Lim sit down with DR. JEANNE ONG — cardiologist , CrossFitter, and all-around powerhouse—to shatter the myth that women are safe from heart disease. From hidden symptoms and high blood pressure to how exercise really protects your heart, this is the no-fluff, real-talk heart health conversation every woman over 35 needs to hear. Find out: Why women are more likely to die from heart failure than men And why we’re also less likely to be properly medicated or diagnosed. The “strong but stiff” heart issue that’s under-recognized in women Not all heart failure looks the same—especially in women over 40. The truth about high blood pressure, even in fit and active women Yes, it still matters. Yes, it still puts you at risk. No, supplements alone aren’t enough. The cardio-vs-weights debate for heart health—and how to balance both Dr. Jeanne shares the evidence behind different exercise types and her own CrossFit secrets. Why HIIT isn’t the villain (but isn’t always the hero either) Plus: VO₂ Max explained, zone training basics, and why breathless workouts can feel so damn cathartic. Listen now to The Forties Formula . This episode might just save your life—or someone else’s. ----- CHAPTERS 00:00 What women need to know first about heart health 05:30 Why women’s lifetime heart risk is equal—or greater—than men’s 16:00 Why hypertension is under-treated in women 20:00 Genetics, ethnicity, and personal risk factors 24:00 Is high-normal blood pressure safe? 28:00 Hypotension, POTS, and what’s normal for low BP 36:00 The truth about keto, carbs, and sustainable eating 45:00 Cardio vs. HIIT: what works and for whom 50:00 VO₂ max explained in real-life terms 55:00 Emotional + physical benefits of intense workouts 01:00:00 How women experience and process effort differently 01:05:00 Advice for women navigating perimenopause and fitness ------ Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: 🥩 The Meat Club – Get $12 off your first order with code TFF12 💚 Greytt - Use code TFFSPECIAL for a $50 trial session or 33% off a 5-session starter pack ______________ 📩 Join our mailing list for exclusive content, our weekly Friday FOURPlay newsletter, expert tips, and early access to giveaways!
