Stay warm with layers, dress appropriately and warmly, wear layers, a hat, gloves and warm socks to prevent rapid heat loss
Exercise indoors or warm up thoroughly. Avoid sudden exertion like heavy shovelling
Stay hydrated with warm fluids. Dehydration thickens blood.
Eat heart healthy meals like fruits and veggies and avoid fried foods.
A healthy diet can help protect the heart, improve blood pressure and cholesterol, and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. A heart-healthy eating plan includes:
Vegetables and fruits. Beans or other legumes. Lean meats and fish. Low-fat or fat-free dairy foods. Whole grains. Healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado.
Two examples of heart-healthy food plans include the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan and the Mediterranean diet. Take in less of the following:
Salt or high-sodium meals. Sugar or sweetened beverages. Highly refined carbohydrates. Alcohol. Highly processed food, such as processed meats. Saturated fat, which is found in red meat, full-fat dairy products, palm oil and coconut oil. Trans fat, which is found in some fried fast food, chips and baked goods.
Quit Smoking: Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of death and disease in the world. It is also one of the top risk factors for heart attack. The chemicals in cigarettes cause damage to the inner lining of arteries, leading to a build-up of fatty material called plaque, which can block blood flow to the heart muscle and further heart attack.
Sound sleep for 7 to 8 hours.
Manage stress like practice faith based activities, deep breathing, meditation or hobbies to keep stress hormones down.
Take medication for hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart as prescribed.
Be Aware of Warning Signs: If you experience any chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea, seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best ways to prevent a heart attack
Dr Showkat Shah, Critical Care specialist, Srinagar Kashmir