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How to Keep Your Heart Healthy During the Winter and Holiday Season
According to the CDC, “In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.”
With the holidays around the corner, many people are traveling more, dealing with added stress and rushing to get everything done at the last minute.
In fact, the last week of December is one of the deadliest weeks of the year for heart attacks, with more fatalities occurring then than at any other time.
In an article from Flow Space, Dr. Stacey E. Rosen, a board-certified cardiologist, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and senior vice president of women’s health at Northwell Health, told the publication, “During this busy time of year, many people are overindulging in rich foods and drinks, not getting much exercise, or prioritizing rest and sleep.”
“This time of year can be very stressful for many people, and we know there is a correlation between stress and heart attacks,” Rosen added. “All of this can combine into a perfect storm that can lead to serious health issues.”
How to Minimize Your Risk
Eat a Nutritious Diet
While it may be fun to indulge in rich meals for the holidays, Holiday meals don’t have to be bad for your health. Aim to balance those rich foods with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.
Also, watching portion sizes, limiting excess salt, and cutting back on sugary or high-fat foods can go a long way in supporting your heart.
Stay Active
Keep moving. With colder temperatures, it’s easy to want to get cozy at home and not head out the door, but regular physical activity is essential for heart health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, stretching at home or a short workout, even small amounts of daily movement can help lower stress and improve circulation.
Manage Stress
Holiday stress is common, but chronic stress can put extra strain on your heart. Taking breaks, setting realistic expectations, practicing deep breathing or mindfulness, and asking for help when needed can help protect both your mental and physical health.
Bundle Up
Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, which can increase blood pressure and strain the heart. Dressing warmly and especially covering your head, hands and chest can help reduce this risk.
Prioritize Sleep
Lack of sleep has been linked to increased heart risk. Aim for consistent, quality sleep whenever possible, even amid a busy schedule.
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