Ask the expert: Questions about being heart healthy
There's always opportunity to raise awareness about heart health and dispel common misconceptions that often lead to confusion and misinformation.
As a cardiology provider, I encounter numerous questions regarding heart health every day. Let’s address some of the most prevalent misconceptions and provide clarity on these important matters.
Does a healthy weight mean a healthy heart?
While maintaining a healthy weight is undoubtedly beneficial for heart health, it is not the sole indicator of a healthy heart.
Factors such as diet, exercise, genetics, and overall lifestyle play crucial roles in heart health. Even individuals with a seemingly healthy weight can have poor cardiovascular health due to other risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Therefore, it's essential to focus on overall lifestyle habits rather than solely fixating on weight.
Are heart problems only a concern for older adults?
It's a common misconception that heart problems only affect older adults.
While age is indeed a significant risk factor for heart disease, it is not exclusive to the elderly.
Heart disease can manifest in individuals of all ages, including young adults and even children.
Factors such as family history, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions can predispose individuals to heart problems at younger ages. Therefore, it's crucial for individuals of all ages to prioritize heart health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine check-ups with healthcare providers.
Can't I just take supplements instead of eating a heart-healthy diet?
While certain supplements might offer some cardiovascular benefits, they are not a substitute for a heart-healthy diet.
Research suggests that nutrients obtained from whole foods have synergistic effects that cannot be replicated by supplements alone.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber that promote heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Supplements should be viewed as complements to a healthy diet, not replacements.
Isn't chest pain the only warning sign of a heart attack?
While chest pain is a common symptom of a heart attack, it's not the only warning sign.
Heart attack symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may include discomfort or pain in other areas of the body such as the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, and cold sweats.
It's essential to recognize these warning signs and seek medical attention immediately if they occur, as prompt treatment can save lives.
Will cutting out all fats from my diet improve my heart health?
Eliminating all fats from your diet is not the solution to improving heart health.
While excessive consumption of saturated and trans fats can increase the risk of heart disease, not all fats are harmful.
Unsaturated fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish, are beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation. These fats can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
It's important to focus on replacing unhealthy fats with healthier alternatives rather than eliminating fats altogether.
Dispelling misconceptions about heart health is crucial for promoting overall well-being and reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease. By understanding the facts and adopting heart-healthy habits, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their heart health and live longer, healthier lives. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to matters of the heart.
Dr. Karim Saleb, is a cardiologist, IU Health Ball.
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Ask the expert: Heart problems are necessarily for older adults
