HEALTH
Your Heart Knows More Than You Think
Dr Monali Jani
A physician’s guide to heart health.
Every year on September 29, World Heart Day turns the spotlight on the world's leading killer, cardiovascular disease. Although this condition claims more lives globally than any other, it remains clouded by misunderstanding.
Ahead of this year's observance, Dr Vinayak Chauhan, MD (Internal Medicine) at the Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Sciences (GAIMS), unpacks some of the most persistent myths around heart health. His central message is simple yet sobering: “Heart disease rarely strikes out of nowhere. It builds quietly, over years, through small, everyday risks that most people dismiss, and crucially, most of it is preventable.”
Myth 1
“I’m young, so heart disease is not my concern.”
Fact:
Your heart does not suddenly become unhealthy at 50. The process can begin much earlier. High BP, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, excess weight, poor sleep and inactivity can quietly increase your risk over time.
Doctor’s tip:
Don’t wait for symptoms to start taking care of your heart. Prevention works best before there is a problem.
Myth 2
“I would definitely know if I had high BP or cholesterol.”
Fact:
This is one of the most common misconceptions we hear. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can exist without any warning signs.
Doctor’s tip:
Know your numbers. A routine health check can sometimes tell us much more than how you feel.
Myth 3
“I don’t eat fried food, so my diet is heart-friendly.”
Fact:
Heart Health is not just about avoiding fried food. Excess salt, sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, processed foods and oversized portions also matter.
Doctor’s tip:
Instead of asking, “What should I stop eating?”, ask, “What should I add?” More vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, nuts and balanced meals can make a meaningful difference.
Myth 4
“I need an intense workout to protect my heart.”
Fact:
You don't need to become a gym enthusiast overnight. Consistency matters more than intensity. Regular walking and everyday physical activity can be valuable.
Doctor’s tip:
Start with a habit you can sustain. A walk after dinner is better than an ambitious exercise plan that lasts one week.
Myth 5
“Stress is only in the mind.”
Fact:
Your heart and mind are closely connected. Persistent stress can affect sleep, eating habits, blood pressure and activity levels.
Doctor’s tip:
Give recovery the same importance you give work. Sleep well, stay active, make time for people you care about and find healthy ways to decompress.
One thing every doctor wants you to remember
Don't ignore unusual symptoms simply because you are busy. New or unexplained chest discomfort, breathlessness, fainting, sudden sweating or unusual weakness deserve medical attention, particularly if symptoms are sudden or severe. During our conversation, Dr Chauhan emphasises that many serious cardiac conditions can be managed more effectively when identified early, making timely medical attention critical. ]
Many serious cardiac conditions can be managed more effectively when identified early, making timely medical attention critical.
Heart health is not about following a perfect lifestyle. It is about making better choices, more often. Check your risk factors. Move more. Eat mindfully. Sleep adequately. Avoid tobacco. Manage stress.
(The author works at Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhuj.)