Taking care of your heart this winter

We’re here in the winter, shivering in sweaters with cluttering teeth but trying to embrace the cold days, especially in the northern parts of India. As much as winter brings relief to those who hate the harsh scorching tropical climate of India, it also brings a series of challenges for the body. We are not only talking about the cold weather we must protect our body from, dry skin and flaky lips, but also heart health, which can become a little fragile during the cold months. 

Wondering how? We will be telling you the same in this blog, along with a few tips that can help you take care of your heart this winter. 

Reasons why you need to take extra care of your heart this winter

For starters, cold weather can make someone more prone to heart attacks if they already have heart issues. Cold weather can contract blood vessels, which can lead to reduced blood flow, metabolic stress and high blood pressure. All of which can add more pressure on the heart. In addition to that, constriction of arteries during cold can increase the frequency and severity of angina attacks. 

Also, the body loses heat more quickly in colder weather, making it more difficult for it to maintain a healthy temperature. Consequently, more warm blood is required to be circulated, which places a greater strain on the heart.

Some external factors also come into play. Excess eating of unhealthy food and sweets during festivities can also cause problems for your heart. Not to mention, the sedentary lifestyle, induced by laziness in the season, can also add insult to injury. 

As people are more prone to colds, sore throats and coughs can also be problematic for someone whose heart is already under stress because of multiple reasons. 

What can you do to keep your heart healthy this winter? 

Physical activity is a must

Summer or winter, physical activity is essential, but it becomes much more crucial during winter months. First things first, the more you work out, the warmer you will feel. This may reduce the stress that is put on the heart during winter. 

Not to mention, exercising or any other form of physical activity can regulate blood pressure and blood sugar, all of which are red flags for heart diseases. 

So, while engaging in an outdoor workout session may not be a good idea this time of the year, doing indoor exercises can certainly be beneficial for the heart and overall health. 

Don’t let dehydration inflict damage 

While it’s common to not feel thirsty during winter, it may do more damage than you’d realise. We may not feel that we need water, but we do. In fact, more than ever in winter. Dehydration can put a lot of strain on the heart, affecting its ability to pump blood efficiently, which may increase the risk of heart disease. 

Pay attention to your diet 

Your diet matters! This goes without saying, yet very little importance is given to diet. As winter is a festive time of the year, you may end up having a lot of unhealthy food. Not to mention, the cosy blankets and warm socks may also make you order food online instead of eating healthy home-cooked meals. 

Hence, paying importance to your diet is imperative. Focus on having heart-healthy food items and the foods that keep you warm during the cold season. 

Keep yourself warm 

Your body tries its best to keep you warm in winter. It speeds up the metabolism a little bit and ensures warm blood is circulated throughout the body. But it still needs protection. This means you have to do your bit to keep it warm. Ensure that you wear adequate layers of clothing to stay protected from the cold. 

Closing thoughts 

As winter unfolds its chilly embrace, it is crucial to ensure your heart works its best and is in the best of its health. By following mindful habits, nourishing our bodies with heart-healthy foods, and staying physically active even in colder weather, we can do wonders for our cardiovascular health during the winter months. 

Remember, the key lies in balance and self-care. Let this winter be a season of not just festivities, but also a time to nurture the warmth within, ensuring our hearts beat strong and resilient, ready to embrace the joys that each season brings. Stay heart-healthy, stay warm, and thrive in the glow of a well-cared-for heart.

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