Is Your Heart At Risk This Winter?
Did you know that 53% more heart attacks take place in the winter than summer, and a 5C drop in temperature has been associated with a 12% increase in admissions for heart attack?
Ahead of the UK's coldest winter months Benecol® has announced the launch of the 'Winter Ways to Healthier Days' guide to help people have their healthiest winter yet, with advice from leading experts on diet and fitness.
The 'Winter Ways to Healthier Days' guide has been developed with Dr Rosemary Leonard, GP, Diana Moran, health and fitness expert, and Helen Bond, consultant nutritionist, to provide expert advice on introducing diet and fitness New Year's resolutions without people putting themselves at risk.
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), which is one the most common causes of death in the UK. CHD causes around 94,000 deaths a year in the UK.
Dr Rosemary Leonard says, "A healthy heart should be at the top of everyone's New Year's resolutions list. As many as 2 out of 3 adults in the UK have a raised cholesterol level which puts them at increased risk of Coronary Heart Disease.
“The Winter Ways to Healthier Days guide provides easy to follow exercise, diet and lifestyle advice that can help you to achieve your New Year's resolutions.
“During the winter months reduced temperatures can increase your risk of stroke and heart attack and exercising in cold weather can present additional risk factors that many people are not aware of."
Dr Rosemary Leonard's Top Tips for a Heart Healthy New Year
* Speak to your doctor before starting a new exercise regime and discuss what your heart disease risk factors may be.
* Begin gentle activities. Your cardiovascular system can adapt to slow and progressive changes, but it has a much more difficult time adapting to sudden changes - Beginning your new routine gradually is not only less taxing on your body, but it is also easier to stick to.
* Exercise indoors during the winter
* When venturing outside, dress in layers to keep warm and store your body heat and wear a hat, as much of the body's heat is lost through the head. Keep your hands and feet warm too, as they can lose heat quickly
* Avoid sudden exertion when outside in cold weather.
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