Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to catch any abnormalities early on
During winter, the body works harder to maintain its core temperature in cold conditions, which can put additional strain on the heart. Cold temperatures can also cause blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular events. In this article, we discuss how you can follow certain tips to better manage your heart health during winter.
10 Strategies to help manage heart health in winter:
1. Stay active
Engaging in physical activity helps improve cardiovascular health. Indoor activities like yoga, dancing, or using exercise equipment can help maintain heart health during winter. Follow a fitness routine and exercise at least 30 minutes a day.
2. Maintain a healthy diet
Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive salt intake. Incorporate heart-healthy foods like salmon, walnuts, berries, spinach, and avocado into your meals.
3. Stay hydrated
Keep yourself well-hydrated even during winter. Drinking water helps prevent dehydration and improves circulation, which is essential for heart health. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
4. Bundle up
Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure. Dress warmly to maintain body temperature, especially when going outdoors. Layer clothing and use accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves to protect against the cold.
5. Avoid overeating
Winter is associated with indulgent holiday meals and comfort food. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overeating. Maintain a healthy balance and limit the intake of high-calorie, high-fat foods.
6. Manage stress
Winter can bring about additional stress, which can negatively impact heart health. Practice stress reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies to relax and manage stress effectively.
7. Get enough sleep
Prioritise quality sleep as it plays a vital role in maintaining heart health. Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a sleep-friendly environment.
8. Stay protected
Cold weather increases the risk of flu and other respiratory infections, which can strain the heart. Make sure to get your annual flu shot and practice good hygiene like frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
9. Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels to catch any abnormalities early on. Consult with your doctor to determine the ideal ranges for your age and health condition. Medications may be prescribed to manage these levels.
10. Consult your doctor
Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your heart health during winter. They can provide personalised advice, prescribe relevant tests, and make necessary adjustments to your medications if needed.
Correctly following these strategies involves consistency, discipline, and seeking professional guidance when needed. Incorporate these habits into your daily routine and make them a priority. Understand the significance of these strategies by recognising that they promote overall heart health by improving circulation, reducing stress, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and fostering a healthy lifestyle. By following these strategies, the risk of heart-related complications can be significantly reduced, while overall cardiovascular health can be enhanced.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.