Brisk Walk To Regular Checkup, Follow These To Lower Risk Of Heart Attack During Winter

Poor lifestyle choices, unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, smoking, and pollution are the most common reasons for heart attacks among the youth, according to cardiologists. The disruption of oxygenated blood supply to the heart causes life-threatening conditions. Individuals must remain cautious to prevent heart attacks. Dr Vanita Arora, Senior Cardiologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, highlights the heightened risk of heart attacks in winter. Cold temperatures cause the constriction of arteries supplying blood to the heart, adversely affecting heart health. The potential formation of clots in these arteries can result in a heart attack. As a heart attack is a medical emergency with severe consequences without immediate treatment, regular heart check-ups play a crucial role in detecting problems early and preventing heart attacks.

Dr Vanita Arora advises that to prevent a heart attack, individuals should maintain a healthy diet, prioritise regular sleep, and adhere to a proper waking schedule. It’s essential to refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption to avoid adverse effects on the heart. Incorporating a daily brisk walk of 4 kilometres in 40 minutes is recommended. Brisk walking, with a faster pace than a normal stroll, enhances heart health and diminishes the risk of a heart attack. For those unable to walk, engaging in alternative physical activities can still provide significant overall health benefits.

In winter, it’s crucial to prevent heart attacks by staying warm and choosing hot foods while avoiding junk food, according to doctors. If you must go outside in extremely low temperatures, wearing warm clothes is essential. For individuals taking heart medications, sticking to the prescribed schedules is vital to avoid worsening the condition and increasing the risk of a heart attack. These precautions emphasise the importance of staying cautious during the winter season.

Engaging in a brisk 30-minute walk each day, as suggested by a 2022 study, can significantly lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and mortality. To enjoy these health benefits, aim for a brisk walk of at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, covering a distance of 1.5-2 miles or around 3,000-4,500 steps.