Yesterday, Brits up and down the country enjoyed food and drink in excess and while it probably seemed like a good idea at the time, today things might look different.
After indulging in rich foods and alcohol, cardiologist Dr Oliver Guttmann, Consultant Cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare has warned of the negative effects the big day could have had on your heart.
Q: What are the first signs that Christmas took a toll on the heart?
Dr Guttmann: Physically, signs that Christmas has placed strain on heart health become apparent through heightened fatigue and stress. The demands of holiday preparations, including shopping, decorating, and hosting parties, can result in elevated stress levels.
Stress is associated with the release of hormones that can impact the heart, potentially contributing to increased blood pressure and heart rate. Excessive indulgence in festive foods and drinks, often rich in sugar, fats, and salt, can have implications for heart health.
Overconsumption of such foods and alcohol during the holiday season may contribute to weight gain and other risk factors associated with heart diseases. Additionally, changes in sleep due to parties or heightened stress can negatively impact heart health.
Acknowledging these physical signs and taking proactive measures to manage stress, maintain a healthy diet, and prioritise sleep can help alleviate the strain that the holiday season might place on heart health. Emphasising heart-friendly practices during and after the festive period is crucial for overall wellbeing.
Q: What to do once you notice these warning signs?
Dr Guttmann: If you observe irregular heartbeats or experience elevated blood pressure during the Christmas season, these signs may indicate a toll on your heart. If such symptoms persist, it is crucial to seek guidance from your GP promptly.
The demands and potential stress of the season can impact cardiovascular health. Please also seek urgent medical attention if you have chest pain. To address these effects, consider incorporating stress management practices like meditation into your routine.
Being mindful of festive food choices is vital, choose options such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your heart health.
Moreover, if you observe a significant increase in body weight, be mindful of its potential impact on your heart. Prioritise maintaining a healthy weight through portion control and choosing healthy foods.
Additionally, regular physical activity plays an important role in preserving heart health, so ensure it remains a part of your Christmas routine.
Q: Are there any lifestyle tweaks that can get the heart back on the right trajectory over the Christmas period?
Dr Guttmann: Staying active during the festive period – which can be as simple as going for a daily walk – is a great way to ensure your heart health stays on track during the festivities.
When planning your Christmas meals, choosing heart-friendly options like seasonal fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can also help ensure good heart health over Christmas. And this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favourite treats, just make sure you have smaller portions.
Moreover, to cope with the stress of Christmas activities, find moments to relax. Prioritise good sleep ensuring a calm routine amidst the holiday stress.
After the festive period, consider implementing lifestyle changes such as gradually reintroducing regular exercise and opting for nutritious meals, and minimising your alcohol intake. Focus on maintaining a balanced routine to support your overall wellbeing as you transition from the festive period.
