Heart Health: Beyond Diets & Workouts

Cardiac surgeon Dr. Naresh Trehan highlights that heart health extends beyond intense exercise and restrictive diets, focusing on understanding personal risks. Genetics, diabetes, environmental factors, and stress are significant contributors to heart disease. He stresses the importance of knowing one's predispositions through genomic sequencing for personalized health strategies.

Dr. Trehan advocates for a balanced approach to diet, emphasizing moderation over deprivation, and encourages regular physical activity such as brisk walking. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress through activities like yoga, and periodic health checks for blood pressure, sugar, and lipid levels are presented as vital preventative measures.

He advises early screenings, recommending a full check-up before age 25 for those with a family history of heart disease or diabetes, and before age 30 otherwise. For individuals in their 30s and beyond, recognizing warning signs like breathlessness or discomfort during activity is crucial, as these could indicate underlying heart conditions.

Indians exhibit a higher vulnerability to heart disease, with genetics playing a key role. Dr. Trehan also points out that sudden deaths can result from irregular heartbeats or other underlying conditions, underscoring the need for thorough check-ups. He cautions against dismissing chest discomfort as mere acidity, urging prompt medical attention.

Regarding modern treatments, GLP-1 drugs show theoretical potential for heart benefits by aiding weight reduction, though long-term studies are still needed. The expert also notes the detrimental effects of prolonged sitting, recommending short breaks for circulation. As age progresses, metabolic changes, hormonal shifts, and muscle mass maintenance become critical for cardiovascular health.