Cardiologist warns against 5 habits you think are harmless but are taking a toll on your heart

Causes of heart attack: Whether it’s your desk, your couch, or your car — being still too long wrecks your back, your gut, and your heart.” It’s important to sneak in movement whenever you can, suggests Dr Yaranov (Image: Pexels)

A healthy heart isn’t just about eating the right foods and making time for movement, it’s also about taking stock of everyday habits that can impact future gains. The way we start and end our day determines our long-term health.

Dr Dmitry Yaranov, a Russian cardiologist, shared on his Instagram handle that he often sees the long-term effects of habits that appear harmless but, over time, take a toll on your heart, energy, and resilience.

Here’s a list of the five habits he said you should avoid:

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A post shared by Dmitry Yaranov, MD | Cardiologist 🫀 (@heart_transplant_doc)

Not resting enough: Many people equate resting with losing time, which shouldn’t be the case. “Telling yourself, ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead’? That’s a shortcut to it,” Dr Yaranov said. Its consequences? “No rest means higher blood pressure, weight gain, and burnout you can’t shake.”

Sitting all day, scrolling all night: If you have a desk job, it’s not uncommon to find yourself sitting all day and unwinding at night with your phone. Dr Yaranov said, “Whether it’s your desk, your couch, or your car — being still too long wrecks your back, your gut, and your heart.” It’s important to sneak in movement whenever you can.

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Brushing off stress: If you’re stressed, it’s best not to ignore it. Instead, manage and treat it “‘I’m fine.’ Sure. Until your body says otherwise — with chest tightness, gut issues, insomnia, and panic out of nowhere,” the cardiologist said.

Eating on the go: Many people ignore mealtimes, which isn’t good for the body. “Skipping breakfast. Drive-thru lunch. Sugar for dinner. Your blood sugar’s swinging like a roller coaster, and your body’s paying for the ride.” This impacts your long-term health faster.

Showing up for others more than yourself: Dr Yaranov said, “You’re doing everything for everyone else — but when’s the last time you checked in with yourself?”

In the end, Dr Yaranov emphasised that prevention is better than treatment. If you look after yourself now, chances are you’ll be better off than most.

FAQs on How To Keep Heart Healthy

1. How does rest affect heart health?

Not getting enough rest can lead to higher blood pressure, weight gain, and burnout. Prioritize sleep to maintain a healthy heart.

2. Why is movement important for heart health?

Sitting for extended periods can harm your back, gut, and heart. Incorporate movement throughout the day to counteract these effects.

3. How does stress impact heart health?

Ignoring stress can result in physical symptoms like chest tightness, gut issues, insomnia, and panic attacks. Manage stress to protect your heart.

4. What is the effect of eating on the go?

Skipping meals or eating unhealthy foods can cause blood sugar fluctuations, negatively impacting long-term heart health. Maintain regular, balanced meals.

5. Why is self-care important for heart health?

Constantly prioritising others over yourself can lead to neglect of personal health. Regularly check in with yourself to ensure your heart health is not compromised.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.