Cases of heart attacks have been rising steadily over the past few years. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) account for millions of deaths globally each year, and India is no exception to this worrying trend. Doctors also point out that heart attacks are seen more frequently during winter than in summer, largely due to low temperatures and lifestyle changes.
To understand how heart health can be protected during winter, we spoke to Dr. Ajit Jain, Associate Professor in the Department of Cardiology at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital. He explained that winter demands extra care when it comes to diet, exercise, and daily habits, especially for people with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Pay special attention to your diet
Dr. Jain says winter often leads to overeating, especially fried and high-fat foods. These can increase cholesterol levels and put extra strain on the heart. Instead, he advises including plenty of green vegetables and seasonal fruits in the diet. Fruits and vegetables help control blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and support overall cardiovascular health.
Exercise daily, even in winter
One common mistake people make in winter is avoiding exercise due to cold weather. According to Dr. Jain, regular physical activity is essential even during this season. He recommends exercising indoors rather than outdoors to avoid exposure to cold. Sudden or very heavy workouts should be avoided. Simple cardiac exercises for 15–20 minutes a day are sufficient. Yoga and pranayama can also be very beneficial for heart health and stress control.
Why does heart attack risk increase in winter?
Doctors explain that in cold weather, blood vessels tend to constrict. This raises blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder than usual, increasing the risk of heart attacks. Additionally, physical activity usually decreases in winter, while the intake of fried and fatty foods increases—both of which negatively affect heart health.
Who needs to be extra careful?
People with existing heart conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease need to be especially cautious during winter. Regular monitoring, a balanced diet, daily movement, and avoiding sudden exertion can significantly reduce risk.
