Written By: Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 31, 2024 8:51 PM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr Deep C Pant, director at Shri Vedanta and senior consultant cardiologist at Shri Vedanta Multi Super Speciality Hospital & Research Institute, Bareilly
Traditional holiday spreads that include fried snacks, sweets, and rich curries are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. They can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. (Photo: Freepik)
The heart is one of the most important organs that needs constant care and upkeep, especially in current times, when lifestyle disorders and health conditions are far too common. Lack of sleep and exercises, along with the intake of improper diet can cause serious health complications that affect the heart first. Regardless of their age, one has to be careful in the winter season and pay extra attention to holiday-induced cardiac risks. Cardiologists point out that since festive season in India is a time of joy and celebration, with families coming together to indulge in traditional delicacies, sweets, and occasional drinks, overindulgence during this time can strain the heart, particularly in individuals who are already at risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, which increases the risk of clogged arteries (atherosclerosis), heart attacks and stroke. Studies have revealed that hypertension is prevalent among the younger Indian population -- between the ages of 35 and 45 years -- with diabetes and dyslipidemia as common comorbidities. These factors can significantly heighten the risk of heart-related complications during the holiday season.
According to Dr Deep C Pant, director at Shri Vedanta and senior consultant cardiologist at Shri Vedanta Multi Super Speciality Hospital & Research Institute, Bareilly, the excitement of festivities often comes with stress from having to host guests and manage finances for gifts and celebrations. "Stress can increase cortisol levels, which in turn elevates blood pressure and heart rate, exacerbating risks for those already dealing with hypertension or metabolic conditions. To combat this, grounding practices such as yoga, pranayama, and mindfulness can be undertaken to serve as effective tools for reducing stress and maintaining heart health," he suggests.
The doctor highlights the fact that traditional holiday spreads that include fried snacks, sweets, and rich curries are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. And while they please the taste buds, they can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, especially in those with underlying hypertension or dyslipidemia. "The situation is compounded by alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration and disrupt heart rhythms, a condition often referred to as 'Holiday Heart Syndrome'."
According to the health expert, the symptoms of cardiac distress should never be ignored. These include:
Immediate medical attention can save lives, particularly during a period when cardiac mortality spikes, Dr Pant says.
This is what the doctor wants you to keep in mind:
