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7 Bad Habits That Trigger Heart Attacks


Heart attacks and other heart problems often result in sudden death. It turns out that there are habits that trigger heart attacks that you should be aware of. Certain habits do increase the risk of heart problems, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.


A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to part of the heart stops suddenly, usually due to a blockage in the coronary arteries. This blockage inhibits the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle, causing damage to heart tissue. If not treated immediately, a heart attack can be fatal.


The main cause of a heart attack is coronary heart disease (CHD). This disease occurs when plaque, which consists of cholesterol, fat, and other substances, builds up on the walls of the coronary arteries. This process is called atherosclerosis. Over time, this plaque can rupture, forming a blood clot that can block blood flow to the heart.


Apparently not only that because many habits that seem normal, but have a bad impact on heart health including triggering heart attacks.


1. Eliminate certain nutrients due to diet


Certain diets sometimes require people to avoid or eliminate certain nutrients. It may be that dieting works and you lose weight, but it also triggers heart problems later in life.


Daniel Edmundowicz, chief of cardiology at Temple University Hospital, observed that people who follow a low-cholesterol diet avoid healthy fats. Even though it is an important macronutrient.


Crash diets can also be a burden on the cardiovascular system. Research shows that extreme and sudden changes in eating habits can cause a decline in heart function.


2. Lazy to clean your teeth and mouth


Dental problems can increase the risk of bacterial infections in the bloodstream. Edmundowicz said that gum disease and poor oral health are known to trigger inflammation that can worsen heart problems such as high cholesterol or plaque rupture.


"Good oral hygiene is important. We can't say 100% that brushing and flossing every day will prevent a heart attack, but it can increase someone's susceptibility if they have other standard risk factors," Edmundowicz said as quoted by the Huffington Post.


3. Sitting all day


A study that surveyed more than 100,000 people in 21 countries found that people who sat 6-8 hours a day were 12-13 percent more likely to die at a young age and have heart disease.


Then, those who sat more than 8 hours every day, the risk jumped to 20 percent. If your job requires you to sit for long periods of time, try to take a break and walk.


4. Spending too much time alone


Loneliness and spending too much time alone can be habits that trigger heart attacks. A review in the Journal of the American Heart Association in 2022 said that social isolation and loneliness were associated with a 30 percent increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. You need to stay connected with others even through text or phone.

"In addition, if you and your social circle focus on a healthy lifestyle, you are more likely to stick with it," said Nicholas Ruthman, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, quoted from Everyday Health.


5. Staying up late


Your heart will work hard all day if you don't get enough sleep because your cardiovascular system doesn't get the rest it needs.


Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association highlights that sleep is an integral part of heart health. Sleeping less than 7 hours per night is associated with a higher risk of obesity, hypertension and diabetes.



You should get enough sleep and keep it from getting too much. Too much sleep is also unhealthy. People who sleep 9 hours or more have a 56 percent higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease than those who sleep 7-8 hours.


6. Drinking too much coffee


Coffee and caffeine are actually healthy if the portion is right. Just two cups per day, you can get benefits for your heart and cardiovascular system.


On the other hand, when the amount is excessive, the negative effects can be because it can speed up the heart rate, blood vessel contractions and increase blood pressure.


7. Letting go of stress


Stress puts the body in a 'fight or flight' state. If left untreated and not managed, this condition can trigger inflammation and the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline for a long time.


These factors can cause physiological changes in the body including increased blood pressure, cholesterol, risk of obesity, insulin resistance and heart rhythm disturbances.


It is better to avoid habits that trigger heart attacks such as letting stress. Learn how to manage stress well and effectively, for example, Relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga, and walking in nature.


Changing bad habits that can trigger heart attacks may seem difficult, but every small step you take toward a healthier lifestyle can make a big difference. By quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, adopting a healthy diet, and managing stress, you can protect your heart from the risk of serious diseases. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Start today—your heart will thank you in the future.



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