4 Effective Ways to Avoid a Post-Holiday Heart Problem

Christmas is a season to be merry with food, laughter and drinks, but it also makes us overindulge in high-calorie foods and drinks. Overindulgence can lead to holiday heart syndrome, a heart problem that results from too much food and alcohol consumption. Too much alcohol and unhealthy food intake can actually make your heart go weak and beat irregularly, further leading to heart attacks, stroke and even death.

Holiday Heart Syndrome Symptoms

The most common symptoms of holiday heart syndrome include the following:

• Palpitations (heart pounding)
• Breathlessness with physical activity
• Cardiac chest pain that may be confused with heartburn
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Fainting spells
• Irregular or thready pulse
• Fluttering sensation in the chest
• Racing heartbeat
• Pounding heart (palpitations)
• Tightening in the chest
• Experiencing shortness of breath
• Feeling confused, dizzy, faint or anxious

What Can We Do To Stop It?

Don’t Eat Too Much

Too much fat and calorie intake can lead to the development of diabetes and high blood cholesterol levels in susceptible individuals. This can further cause atherosclerosis or narrowing the blood vessels of the heart and the other organs. When there is blockage in the blood vessels of the heart, a heart attack occurs. When the blockage is in the blood vessels of the brain, a stroke ensues.

Watch your portion sizes and avoid sugary and fatty foods. Feast more on fruits, vegetables and high-fiber foods.

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

Too much caffeine and alcohol could increase your blood pressure and heart rate. Alcohol contains a lot of calories that are harmful to the body. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances will also occur from consuming too much caffeine and alcohol.

Have Some Physical Activity

Never skip a healthy exercise routine even during the Christmas season. Have at least 30 minutes of physical activity everyday. Exercise not only burns fat, it also improves sleep, maintains a normal body weight, speeds up metabolism, strengthens your immune system and builds up muscle strength and endurance.

Relax and Breathe Deeply

Be free from your stress and worries even for just 10 minutes by doing some deep breathing exercises. Meditation is good for the mind and the body. This activity not only releases stress but it also strengthens the muscles of your diaphragm and keeps your lungs healthy.

Be happy while also staying fit and healthy during the Christmas season! Happy holidays!

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-Medical Observer