You might feel like you already have enough to worry about this holiday season, but here’s one thing you’re not going to want to let slide: your heart health. It’s a disturbing fact, but heart attacks are more common during the holiday season than at any other time of the year, and although doctors aren’t sure exactly why, they do have some pretty solid theories. Thankfully, taking steps to protect your heart (and encouraging old Uncle Bob to do the same) is easy enough if you take these tips to heart.
Keep Toasty Warm
Cold weather stresses the heart by constricting blood vessels, raising blood pressure, and overall straining your system as it works to maintain a normal body temp. Be sure to cover your hands, head, and neck when spending time outside and be sure to have plenty of blankets and warm jammies if your bedroom is cool.
Indulge Wisely
The table will be full of high fat delicacies that are just screaming “heart attack waiting to happen,” so indulge wisely and fill up on healthy stuff (like antioxidant-rich veggies and cranberries) before sampling small amounts only of the guilty, high-fat pleasures.
Take a moment to De-Stress
The holidays are a time of never ending to-do lists, relatives that get on your nerves, and upset routines. Stress is a killer, so make time to relax a little by taking 20 minutes or so every day to go for walk, take a long bath, read a book, do some deep breathing exercises, or whatever else relaxes and calms you.
Don’t Procrastinate
Many heart attacks can be minimized or even prevented by seeking prompt medical attention, but during the holidays it’s all too easy to ignore vague symptoms and excuse them as passing side effects of the hectic season. Pay attention to your body, don’t ignore new or strange symptoms, and if you’re traveling find out ahead of time what and where your health care options will be, just in case.
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