Winters is on the pick now; body heat is easily reduced during cold days. Resulting, it becomes difficult for the body to maintain the proper temperature. In winter, due to bad habits like sleeping less, not drinking water, eating more, etc., the stress on the heart increases and it can fall ill. Heart patients should take extra precautions during winter. For People who have had a heart attack or another form of cardiac disease, the heart has to work harder to pump blood. In such a situation, the winter season can be a bit difficult for you. During this time there is less moisture in the air and the cold air leaves a bad effect on the body. There are some tips to keep the heart healthy in winter, Dr. Abhishek Vikram Singh, Director of Infinity Care Hospital, Varanasi.
- Keep the body active in winter.
The first and most important recommendation is that keep yourself active, most individuals cut back on their physical activity throughout the winter. As a result, the body’s blood circulation declines and the heart needs to work harder. This causes pressure on the chest and can lead to a heart attack. Everyday stroll is very important. The body can be given 40 to 50 minutes to maintain cardiac health. Instead of undertaking strenuous exercises, take a brisk walk. Yoga may be practiced at home as well.
- Do not reduce water intake
In winter the intake of water decreases. However, drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water daily. Metabolism gets worse due to dehydration. Heart patients should choose foods in winter which is easily digestible. Don’t eat too much oily food. Apart from this, the consumption of sweet things should also be kept to a minimum.
- Keep weight under control
Obesity increases the risk of heart disease. To keep the heart healthy, do not allow obesity to increase during winter. Consider diet and calories to reduce obesity. Control portion size. Include all the essential nutrients in your plate. The more colourful food items are on the plate, the healthier your food will be. Stop eating junk food completely.
- Consume meals high in potassium.
Consumption of potassium is considered beneficial for keeping the heart healthy. Citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables both contain potassium. Consume spinach in winter. Can drink spinach greens or soup. This will help in controlling the cholesterol level. Heart risk can be reduced by keeping cholesterol under control.
- Keep the body warm, especially heart patients and aged
Those with heart conditions should keep themselves warm in cold days to stay healthy. Wear warm clothes to keep the body temperature warm. Avoid going out in winter if not necessary or cover your ears, mouth, and nose properly before going out. For people who are old, their metabolism slows down and there is a hindrance in the functioning of the heart. Due to the falling metabolic rate, it becomes difficult for the body to keep warm. In such a situation, the body becomes a victim of diseases.
