It’s certainly the
lump of coal among all the presents! Research shows that the death rate from
heart attack and stroke tends to spike around the holiday season. The numbers
include both fatal and non-fatal heart attacks, as well as a less
serious, alcohol-induced condition called "holiday heart syndrome"
that causes the heart to beat irregularly.
When you eat a lot of food at once,
your stomach expands with your digestive system requiring more blood. If
you have coronary heart disease or are at risk for it, overeating (a big
Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner can top 5,000 calories) can have serious
consequences. Triglycerides—a type of fat in the blood after a large meal—can
cause coronary artery inflammation, commonly a prelude to a heart attack. Large
amounts of food and alcohol can also cause the release of adrenaline-like
substances that can cause a fatal abnormal heart rhythm.
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart
attack and getting immediate medical treatment is vital. Here are the top signs
of a heart attack, though these may vary between men and women and patient by
patient.
- Pressure, tightness, pain, or a squeezing or aching
sensation in your chest or arms that may spread to your neck, jaw or back
- Nausea, indigestion, heartburn or abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness
Planning is your best weapon against
overeating during the holidays. Some helpful tips include, eating a
high-protein snack before a party and adding to your exercise routine might help to prevent overeating.
Certainly we all love the delicious
dishes and treats that come with holiday celebrations. The key is to enjoy in
moderation, don’t over-indulge. Your heart will certainly be thankful that you
did.
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