Cardiologists Say These 2 Tips Can Help During the 'Worst Time of the Year' for Heart Health

As the holiday season unfolds, December presents heightened challenges for maintaining heart health due to increased indulgence in food and drink, along with seasonal stress. Cardiologists warn that this period is particularly risky for the heart.

The festive season is one of the most challenging times for cardiovascular health, explains Dr. Marc Eisenberg, a clinical cardiologist and associate professor of medicine at Columbia University Medical Center in New York. Factors like high salt intake, travel, and alcohol consumption can disrupt normal heart rhythms and elevate blood pressure.

This condition, often referred to as holiday heart syndrome, prompts doctors to remind individuals to pay extra attention to their cardiovascular well-being during this month.

Heart Health Tips: Limit Alcohol and Stay Active

Cardiologists highlight two simple but effective strategies to mitigate holiday heart risks. First, moderate alcohol consumption is crucial. Alcohol in moderation is generally safe, but overindulging can trigger heart problems, says Eisenberg. He recommends keeping intake to one or two drinks per day.

Second, incorporating light to moderate physical activity, such as daily walks, can significantly lower the likelihood of atrial fibrillation, a common irregular heartbeat.

Why These Measures Are Important

Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention at National Jewish Health in Denver, emphasizes the seriousness of holiday heart syndrome: Excessive drinking during the holidays can cause palpitations, often at night, and may lead to atrial fibrillation that sometimes requires hospitalization.

Research shows that the risk of heart attack rises sharply on Christmas Eve and New Years Day, highlighting the importance of preventive care during this period.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Heart

• Consider starting Dry January early by avoiding alcohol completely, or if drinking, limit to two drinks per day for men and one for women.
• Be cautious during parties and gatherings, as multiple events in one night can lead to excessive alcohol intake.
• Watch for signs of heart irregularities such as palpitations, pounding, or unusually fast heartbeat.
• Take short walks after meals and incorporate daily walking into your routine, which benefits both heart and overall wellness.

Consistent attention to these habits can make a meaningful difference in maintaining heart health throughout the holiday season.

Author: Noah Whitman