7 Effective Ways To Strengthen Heart Health In Winters

As the harsh winter months have arrived, the biting cold will restrict our movements and turn our lifestyle even more sedentary. Before that happens, it’s important to safeguard your health, especially your heart. Colder months increase the risk of heart attack or myocardial infarction and can cause sudden cardiac death. Hence, taking precautions like monitoring blood pressure, investing in warm clothes, staying indoors, and having a balanced diet to manage their stress is essential.

As per a Hindustan Times report, Dr Gagandeep S Wander, Associate Director – Interventional Cardiology, Heart Institute, Medanta, Gurugram explained how to improve one’s heart health during winter. He suggested a few preventive measures to strengthen heart health for the winter season:

1.  Keep Your Blood Pressure in CheckDuring the winter months, a significant risk factor for heart disease is high blood pressure. Hence, establishing a monitoring routine as early detection of any health issues allows for timely intervention. One can use devices like an aneroid monitor, smartwatches with BP monitors, and digital monitors.
2. Adhering to medicationThe risk of infection increases in winter. So, it is advisable to receive pneumonia and influenza vaccines to defend against chest infections. Moreover, preserving heart health, particularly for individuals with heart conditions, involves prioritising proper compliance with cardiac medications.
3. Wear warm clothesKeeping your body warm throughout the season is quite essential. Hence, investing in warm clothes like jackets, hats, boots, and gloves can help trap the heat and keep you warm. It also reduces the chance of catching infections, which reduces the risk of heart issues.
4. Stay active indoorsDue to harsh weather conditions, outdoor exercise becomes challenging. But in the winter months, physical activity and regular exercise are crucial to improve heart health.
5. Adopt heart-healthy nutritionIt’s tempting to indulge in rich and calorie-laden meals. However, it’s important to strike a balance and focus on a heart-healthy diet. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which are rich in nutrients that support cardiovascular health and help control cholesterol levels. People must also be mindful of their salt intake, as excessive salt can lead to hypertension.
6. Stay hydratedStaying hydrated is essential for heart health in colder weather. Drink warm beverages like herbal teas and soups to stay warm. It will help maintain blood volume and viscosity, enabling the heart’s pumping efficiency.
7. Manage stressThe winter season can bring additional stressors that can negatively impact heart health, contributing to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Hence, indulge in stress-management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga in your daily routine to promote overall well-being.

Dr Gagandeep concluded by saying that by adopting these strategies, one can fortify their cardiovascular well-being. These will not only help a person navigate the challenges of winter but also set the stage for a heart-healthy lifestyle throughout the year.