Despite all the planning and joy that the holidays can bring by reuniting families and traditions, it is shocking that the Christmas holidays have been associated with more heart attacks (MI) than any other day of the year! Why?
A study from Sweden examined possible triggers of MI during Christmas and the findings were interesting.
STUDY DESIGN
A nationwide, retrospective postal survey with a case-control design. All individuals suffering an MI during the Christmas holidays in 2018 and 2019 in Sweden were identified through the SWEDEHEART registry and a control group matched in age and gender with chronic coronary syndrome who did not seek medical attention during Christmas were asked to participate. Subjects completed a questionnaire asking them to rate 27 potential MI-triggers as having occurred more or less than usual.
STUDY RESULTS
A total of 189 patients suffering a myocardial infarction (MI) on Christmas Eve or Day and 157 patients in the control group responded to the questionnaire, representing response rates of 66% and 62%, respectively.
Patients with MI on Christmas experienced more stress (37% vs. 21%), depression (21% vs. 11%), and worry (26% vs. 10%) compared to the control group.
The food and sweets consumption was increased in both groups, but to a greater extent in the control group (33% vs. 50%). There were no increases in quarrels, anger, economic worries, or reduced compliance with medication.
STUDY CONCLUSIONS
Patients suffering from MI on the Christmas holiday experienced higher levels of stress and emotional distress compared to patients with chronic coronary syndrome, possibly contributing to the phenomenon of holiday heart attack. Understanding what factors increase the number of MI on Christmas may help reduce the excess number of MIs and cardiovascular burden.
SUGGESTIONS FOR CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAYS
Avoid excess alcohol and manage stress
It is no secret the holiday season comes with a spike in alcohol consumption. However, it can have dangerous effects, shielding you from how cold you really are.
Manage stress by being mindful and thoughtful about the holiday plans and who you will be with, getting a good night’s sleep, avoiding conflicts, using breathwork like the 4-7-8 breathing pattern, and not skipping exercise.
Do not overexert yourself in the cold.
The shift in temperature also comes with a shift in outdoor maintenance, particularly in areas where snow needs to be shoveled often.
Get help if needed
If you have any new symptoms of a heart condition, call 911 and get checked, even if it is Christmas.
About the author: Dr. Joel Kahn is one of the world’s top cardiologists and he is passionate about scientifically showing the body’s ability to heal itself through proper nutrition. He is on a mission to try to prevent all future heart attacks by educating and inspiring people to follow an active and holistic lifestyle by applying cutting-edge science to their lives.
At his core, Dr. Joel Kahn believes that plant-based nutrition is the most powerful source of preventative medicine on the planet. Having practiced traditional cardiology since 1983, it was only after his own commitment to a plant-based vegan diet that Dr. Kahn truly began to delve into the realm of non-traditional diagnostic tools, prevention tactics, and nutrition-based recovery protocols.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Content may be edited for style and length.
References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.kahnlongevitycenter.com/blog/why-are-there-so-many-heart-attacks-on-christmas-beware
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34585998
https://worldhealth.net/news/a-healthful-approach-this-holiday-season/
https://www.nhtsa.gov/drive-sober-december-and-every-month
https://worldhealth.net/news/which-is-worse-tax-time-or-holiday-stress-mas/
https://worldhealth.net/news/de-escalating-family-conflict-and-drama/
https://worldhealth.net/news/holiday-season-blues-skip-sugar-laden-treats/
