Additional Coverage:
- A cardiologist shared 4 seemingly healthy habits that can lead to heart failure, from too much protein to overdoing workouts (businessinsider.com)
Seemingly Healthy Habits That Could Hurt Your Heart
We all know the basics of heart health: balanced diet, regular exercise, no vaping. But what about those healthy habits taken to the extreme? A Tennessee cardiologist warns that overdoing it can actually put your heart at risk.
Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a heart transplant cardiologist known for his online heart health tips, told us that even healthy habits can backfire if taken too far. He sees young patients in their 20s and 30s experiencing heart problems, often due to surprisingly common lifestyle choices.
Too Much of a Good Thing: High-Protein Diets
Protein is crucial for weight loss, muscle growth, and hormone regulation. However, Dr.
Yaranov cautions against excessive protein intake, especially from high-cholesterol sources like red meat and dairy. Studies show a link between high-protein diets rich in these foods and an increased risk of heart failure.
Overloading on protein can strain the kidneys, leading to inflammation, a major contributor to heart disease. Ultra-processed protein supplements can also negatively impact cardiovascular health.
Dr. Yaranov recommends balanced diets like the Mediterranean and Blue Zones, which emphasize heart-healthy proteins like fish and beans alongside fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Weekend Warrior Drinking: A Recipe for Heart Trouble
While moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered acceptable, binge drinking is a serious concern. Dr.
Yaranov points out that even if individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle during the week, heavy weekend drinking can undo all that good work. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart disease.
One of the most common alcohol-related issues Dr. Yaranov sees is dilated cardiomyopathy, a weakening of the heart’s lower chambers.
He advises against concentrating alcohol consumption on weekends, suggesting a mid-week glass of wine is a healthier choice than multiple drinks in one sitting.
Cannabis and Your Heart: An Evolving Story
With the rise in cannabis use, some people view it as a “natural” alternative to alcohol. However, recent studies suggest a link between frequent marijuana use and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Dr. Yaranov emphasizes that research is still ongoing, and the medical community is still learning about the long-term effects of cannabis on the heart.
While some studies show no negative impact, others suggest potential harm. He urges caution, particularly for heavy users, stating, “A lot of times, this comes from this idea that it’s harmless because it’s an herb.
I don’t think that’s the case.”
Extreme Exercise: Finding the Right Balance
While regular exercise is vital for heart health, pushing workouts to the extreme can have unintended consequences. Dr.
Yaranov explains that “athlete’s heart,” a remodeling of the heart due to intense training, can sometimes mimic serious heart conditions. More importantly, consistently sacrificing sleep for early morning workouts can increase inflammation and stress, both detrimental to cardiovascular health.
He stresses the importance of balancing exercise with adequate rest and stress management for optimal heart health. According to Dr.
Yaranov, balance is key when it comes to a healthy lifestyle. Even healthy habits, when taken to extremes, can have negative consequences for your heart.