Gaya: Winter can be a particularly risky season for people suffering from heart ailments, and extra care—especially in diet—is crucial, warns noted Gaya-based physician Dr. Pradeep Kumar.
Speaking to the Morning India English Edition, Dr. Pradeep Kumar stressed that the heart must be treated as a top health priority, as it directly influences overall well-being. He said that for heart patients, a well-planned and season-appropriate diet not only helps control the disease but also significantly improves quality of life.
Dr. Pradeep explained that the body’s nutritional requirements change with weather conditions, making seasonal dietary adjustments essential for heart patients. “A balanced diet tailored to the season can help regulate heart conditions and promote long-term heart health,” he noted.
Emphasising nutrition, he said a proper diet supplies essential nutrients that gradually strengthen heart function. Managing cholesterol and trans-fat levels through food choices alone is possible, he added, particularly by including high-fibre foods in daily meals.
Highlighting winter-specific risks, Dr. Pradeep said most heart attacks are reported during colder months. “Low temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to higher blood pressure and increased strain on the heart,” he explained. This makes it vital for heart patients to consume warm, nutrient-dense foods during winter.
He recommended including whole grains, pulses, green leafy vegetables, and nuts such as peanuts in the daily diet. Fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acid–rich fish, nuts, and whole grains should form the core of meals, as they support heart health and encourage a healthier lifestyle.
Dr. Pradeep also pointed out that dietary needs vary with seasons. While salads and roasted vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals are beneficial, fish like salmon—high in omega-3 fatty acids—remains heart-friendly across seasons, including summer.
He strongly advised heart patients to avoid junk food and oily items, which can raise cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Adequate hydration is equally important throughout the year, he added.
“Small, disciplined changes in diet and lifestyle can go a long way in protecting the heart,” Dr. Pradeep Kumar said, urging patients to remain vigilant, especially during winter.
