The holiday season is a time for celebration, togetherness, and often, indulgence. But with all the festivities, it’s also a period when millions of Americans make sudden lifestyle changes – traveling to see family, eating richer foods, drinking more, and interrupting their regular exercise and sleep routines. These shifts, while enjoyable, can pose hidden risks to heart health.
“With routines disrupted, people tend to eat and drink more and exercise and sleep less. Coupled with the stresses of travel, family issues that may surface and feelings of social isolation and loneliness, this can be a deadly time of year,” said cardiologist Kevin Kheder, M.D. “More heart attacks occur on Christmas Day than on any other time of year. The number two and three dates are Dec. 26 and Jan. 1.”
Practicing Heart Healthy Habits – Here are some tips for good heart health during the holidays:
- Skip the Salt – It is not always easy to adhere to a healthy diet during the holidays but scope out the buffet table for ways to keep portions small, healthy and as low in salt as possible.
- Find Ways to Decompress – Racing through airports, biting your tongue around in-laws, and straining your pocketbook can make for a season of sustained high stress. Take time for yourself to meditate, stretch, breathe intentionally and unwind. It is your holiday season, too. Take some time to relax.
- Don’t take a Vacation from Exercise – We recommended 150 minutes of physical activity per week—even during the holidays! If you have to bring the family along for a hike or organize a game of flag football, go for it. The point is to keep moving. It’s good for your heart and your mood.
Recognize the Symptoms – Heart attack symptoms include:
- Chest discomfort or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body, such as one or both arms.
Women may also experience additional or alternative symptoms, including:
- Neck, jaw or back pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Breaking out in a cold sweat.
- Nausea or lightheadedness.
If you or someone near you appears to be having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately and seek help. The sooner a person receives medical attention, the better their chances are of survival.
Armed with this knowledge, you can be on the lookout for symptoms of a heart attack, and ways to protect your heart health to ensure this holiday season is joyful and heart-healthy.
For more information, visit hoag.org/heart.
