TIPS FOR KEEPING
HEART HEALTHY IN WINTER
A. LIKELY CHANGES DURING WINTER
·
When
the weather is cold, the heart has to work harder as the metabolic rate of
the body increases to maintain body heat.
·
The
arteries tighten, restricting blood flow, reducing oxygen supply to the
heart, and increasing the blood pressure.
·
The
shift of activities to morning hours, for trying to finish all outdoor work in
the fewer daylight hours, also leads to a change in the body clock, leading to an increase in the heart rate, BP, and cortisol levels,
putting pressure on your heart and increasing risk of an attack.
·
We
are also more likely to eat food with high fat and high sugar content.
·
There
is also an increased risk of mild viral illnesses involving the respiratory
system.
B. SIMPLE TIPS DURING WINTER
1. Take a walk in the sun
·
Less
daylight during winters can worsen mood problems, increase depression and can
affect the heart.
2. Wear warm clothing
·
Protective
insulation, like wearing a head scarf to protect ears and head, helps, as heat
can be lost through the head, hands and feet.
3. Don’t over-exercise
·
Those
suffering from high blood pressure should avoid early morning walks when it is
cold, and those used to regular exercise should stay away from a hectic
exercise regimen.
4. Control your diet
·
The
combination of high fat food with little physical activity can lead to high
sugar levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
5. Avoid tobacco and coffee
·
Nicotine
and caffeine put much more burden on the heart.
6. Avoid getting wet
·
If
you are a diabetic or hypertensive, get an influenza shot to lower the risk of
winter-associated respiratory illnesses, which can reduce chances of angina and
heart attack.
7. Avoid getting agitated and
stressed out
·
Dark
days and general gloominess of the weather can also create problems of the
heart.
8. Regularly check your blood
pressure and cholesterol levels
- Keep your BP less than 140/90 mms
Hg.
- Fasting sugar should be less than
100 mgs/dl.
- Blood cholesterol should be less
than150 mgs/dl.
- Keep your weight in control.
- In case you experience chest pain
or uneasiness, consult your doctor immediately.