People are fond of giving opinion about everything, even on matters as serious as health. Even if they do not have much idea about it. And unfortunately, others pay heed to such false advices instead of consulting a doctor timely. This attitude has given birth to a number of myths and misconceptions in our society which tends to prolong and complicate the disease. Heart diseases are no exception in this matter. Here we will dispel some common myths about heart health. sni
MYTH 01: Heart diseases occur only in men and elderly
It is commonly believed that heart diseases occur only in men and elderly. Another misconception is that it occurs among the rich. Dr Liaquat Ali, a cardiologist at Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, says 85 percent patients in hospitals are from low or middle working class nowadays. And most are between 35-45 years and some even younger. Rheumatic heart disease is the most common among children especially belonging to poor backgrounds.sni
However, in women these diseases are less common because they have a natural protection which keeps heart safe. But women after menopause or those who are diabetic, obese or have high blood pressure are equally prone to heart diseases.sni
MYTH 02: Chubby people are healthy
One of the biggest myths in our country is considering chubby people to be healthy and lean figures to be weak. But, it is a wrong concept. Dr Yousaf Hassan, a cardiologist from Islamabad highlights that every one in four people are either obese or overweight in the country. Obesity is one of the major causes of heart diseases.sni
MYTH 03: Having heart problem means early death
It is also believed that having a heart issue means early death and a heart patient should never exercise or be active. Dr Liaquat says that both are untrue. Patients can live a normal and longer life if proper care and right treatment is taken. They can even walk and exercise according to their physician’s recommendation.sni
MYTH 04: Unhealthy foods are not a big threat
Mahnaz Nasir, a nutritionist and dietitian from Lahore says that poor or unhealthy food choices are also one of the major causes of heart diseases. Red meat, bakery products, junk food, fried and fatty foods are not healthy for heart. Foods high in fats increase pressure on the heart and fat deposits in the body to disturb its normal function.sni
MYTH 05: Olive or vegetable oil is best for heart health
Banaspati ghee, vegetable oil and butter contain fats and certain chemicals making them bad for health. WHO recommends canola and soya bean oil to be better alternatives. However, overuse of any oil is harmful.sni
Extra virgin olive oil is considered as the sole savior from diseases. According to Mahnaz, even olive oil can become harmful if used for cooking purposes. It should only be used for dressing or coating.sni
One must eat heart-healthy foods or foods that do not contain saturated or trans fats like fruits, vegetables and nuts. Include variety of foods in daily life instead of sticking to one thing. Try to maintain a good body weight and avoid overcooking, deep frying and excessive use of oil.sni
MYTH 06: Smoking does not affect heart
People think that smoking only affects lungs. However, experts agree that it is also a major risk factor for heart issues. Human body works when heart supplies blood to all body parts. Any problem in its vessels directly affects the heart. There are chemicals in cigarette that affect heart vessels. This risk doubles with lack of physical activity and unhealthy diet.sni
MYTH 07: Household chores are an alternative to exercise
According to Brig Dr Naseer Ahmad Samore, a cardiologist from Rawalpindi, household chores cannot be an alternative to exercise. They just make an individual fatigued and exhausted. Be active, play physical games and exercise. Exercise helps control weight and reduce stress, cholesterol levels and blood pressure and helps keep heart diseases at bay. Also watch your calorie intake and utilize whatever you eat.sni
Make it a routine to exercise at least 10 to 20 minutes, three times a day. These exercises can range from brisk walk to aerobics. Or even 1000 steps daily can help. Other simple exercises include pushups, crunches and sit ups. Brisk walking is the easiest and simplest among all.sni
Moreover, starting heavy exercise suddenly may put unnecessary pressure on heart. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt the right technique to start it. The right way is to warm up first. It acts as a notification for the body. Heart patients, however must consult with their cardiologist before starting any exercise.sni
MYTH 08: Stress has nothing to do with heart
According to experts, stress and depression also produce heart problems, both directly and indirectly. All organs are controlled by the nervous system. In stress, anxiety or depression the brain secretes a hormone called adrenaline that increases blood pressure and breathing rate. sni
Adrenaline (stress hormone) affects heart functions directly by pressing arteries and veins. And this condition forces the heart to work more. Furthermore, coronary arteries also contract in stress, causing spasm. Recurrent spasms produce chest pain and a person becomes a heart patient gradually. Sometimes stress causes fats present in the coronary artery to burst. This produces blood clotting and heart attack.sni
Stressful jobs, even driving for that matter, are also one of the causes of heart problems. So avoid stress, depression and anxiety.sni
