6 tips to enjoy the holidays in a heart-healthy way
The holiday season can increase heart attack risks due to overindulgence, stress and ignored symptoms, but there are ways to mitigate these risks.
The holidays are a time for joy, celebration and connection, but they can also bring hidden risks to your heart.
From indulgent meals and hectic schedules to emotional moments, the demands of the season may put more strain on your heart than you realize.
In fact, research from the American Heart Association reveals that heart attack rates peak during the last week of December, making it the most dangerous time of year for your heart.
"The increase in heart attacks during the holidays is often due to overindulgence in less nutritious options, excessive alcohol consumption, delayed medical visits and ignored symptoms," said Hector Lozano, MD, a cardiologist and medical director of the vascular ultrasound laboratory at AdventHealth Medical Group.
The AHA reports that Dec. 25, Dec. 26 and Jan. 1 consistently rank as the deadliest days for heart attacks.
Cold weather, high-calorie meals, stress and disrupted routines may all play a role.
Dr. Lozano emphasizes that taking simple, proactive steps can reduce your risk. He offers the following advice:
- Recognize symptoms and act: Heart attack symptoms -- such as chest pain, shortness of breath and fatigue -- should never be ignored, even during the holidays. Call 911 immediately if you experience signs of a heart attack.
- Practice moderation: Enjoy the delicious foods and drinks of the season but do so in moderation. Overeating or drinking too much can place unnecessary strain on your heart.
- Stay active: The AHA recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Go for a family walk after dinner or find creative ways to stay active together.
- Manage stress: The holidays can bring emotional challenges as people reflect on loved ones they’ve lost. This nostalgia can sometimes lead to "broken heart syndrome," a condition caused by severe stress or sadness.
- Stick to your medications: People are urged to maintain their medication routines.
- Prioritize preventive care: Dr. Lozano encourages those at higher risk to schedule a checkup. "Men over 45, women over 55 and anyone with high-blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes or a family history of heart disease should consult their doctor or a cardiologist," he added. "Enjoy the season, but don’t stray too far from healthy habits. Your heart -- and your loved ones -- will thank you."
12 items. To interact with these items, press Control-Option-Shift-Right Arrow. These items are in a slider. To advance slider forward, press Shift-Command-Right Arrow. To advance slider backward, press Shift-Command-Left Arrow.
News
A heart transplant gave him a second chance at life, then he did something extraordinary
Most people begin the Appalachian Trail carrying a backpack. Terry Markham also carried something in his chest: The heart that gave him a second chance at life.
News
AdventHealth helps Central Florida students as they head back to school
More than 3,000 backpacks were donated through this year’s Backpack for Kids initiative, helping local students and families prepare for a new school year.
News
Free sports physicals, school partnerships help local students start the year ready
Before a student takes the field, walks into class or starts thinking about a future job, AdventHealth is already part of the picture. The health system works with local schools on sports physicals...
News
The buzz about caffeine: What you need to know
Whether it's a morning cup of coffee, an afternoon tea or a pre-workout boost, caffeine is part of many people's daily routine.
Press Release
AdventHealth Heart of Florida team members, community partners donate thousands of school supplies to support students
Team members and community partners are helping ensure local children have the supplies they need to start the new school year on the right foot.
Press Release
Fast, advanced stroke care helps patients get back to what matters
The Joint Commission has awarded UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center.
Media Coverage
The Exec: AdventHealth's recipe for success in primary care
Improving access to primary care is a top goal, and AdventHealth has increased primary care appointments by 60% over the past three years.
News
‘Hope’ finds its home at new Pharmacy of Grace location thanks to the support of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
A new prescription-filling robot named Hope was warmly welcomed at Pharmacy of Grace’s Shawnee location during a naming ceremony Aug. 6.
News
AdventHealth Manchester recognized for transparency in hospital quality
AdventHealth Manchester has received the 2026 Full Transparency recognition through the Leapfrog Hospital Survey, reflecting the hospital’s commitment to openly sharing information about patient...
News
Answering the call for a helping hand at home
Like many who live alone, some home repairs became difficult for Carolyn Dezarn to manage, including replacing the flooring in her house.
News
As Florida’s physician shortage grows, AdventHealth Tampa is helping fill the gap
AdventHealth Tampa’s teaching hospital designation expands physician training, helping address Florida’s doctor shortage and improve care access.
News
New heart rhythm procedure helps DeLand woman return to her morning walks
AdventHealth Daytona Beach says the procedure was the first AFib ablation using Abbott’s Volt system in an ambulatory surgical setting in Central Florida.