Feeling winded after climbing stairs can be a normal physiological response because stairs demand more oxygen and energy, but new or prolonged breathlessness warrants medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions such as heart failure, obesity, COPD, or anemia. If recovery is quick, it’s usually not concerning; if breathing stays elevated for more than about three minutes or is accompanied by chest pain, headaches, or vision changes, consult a doctor. To improve stair endurance, gradually train and strengthen the muscles involved while addressing any medical issues first.
LDL cholesterol, often called 'bad' cholesterol, can build up silently in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is essential to have regular blood tests to monitor levels, ideally keeping LDL below 100 mg/dL, and to understand that genetics and aging also influence cholesterol levels. Managing diet, lifestyle, and regular check-ups are key to controlling LDL cholesterol and maintaining heart health.
Experts unanimously recommend oats as a top food for lowering LDL cholesterol due to their high soluble fiber content, beta-glucan, which helps reduce bad cholesterol levels and support heart health, alongside other dietary and lifestyle changes.
A study suggests that drinking beet juice twice daily can lower blood pressure in older adults within two weeks, likely due to nitrates in beets that convert to nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels. However, more research is needed, and beet juice should be part of a comprehensive heart-healthy lifestyle.
A study suggests that drinking beet juice twice daily may help lower blood pressure in older adults by altering oral bacteria that convert nitrates into nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels. Experts recommend considering beet juice as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and identify who may benefit most.
Cardiologist Dr. Andrew Freeman emphasizes that the best New Year's habit for 2026 is to focus on a strong lifestyle, including regular exercise and a predominantly plant-based diet, to prevent heart disease and improve overall health.
A ten-year study shows that marathon running causes only temporary heart changes and does not lead to long-term damage in recreational runners, though underlying heart conditions can still pose risks. Elevated troponin levels post-race are normal and not indicative of injury, but symptoms like chest pain should always be medically evaluated.
While desi ghee and garlic are nutritious and have some health benefits, scientific evidence does not support the claims that consuming them on an empty stomach can prevent cancer, promote weight loss, or improve skin, hair, and sexual health. Overall lifestyle and dietary habits play a more significant role in disease prevention and health.
Dr. Wolfson argues that high blood pressure is a warning sign rather than the root problem, and that medications often fail because they do not address underlying causes like stress, inflammation, or toxins, thus not reducing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
The article discusses natural and lifestyle-based alternatives to statins for lowering cholesterol, including dietary changes like increasing soluble fiber and healthy fats, regular physical activity, weight loss, and supplements such as red yeast rice and omega-3 fatty acids, while also mentioning prescription options for those who cannot tolerate statins.
Recent research suggests that despite its high sugar content, a daily glass of orange juice can offer health benefits such as improved heart and brain health, thanks to its bioactive nutrients and flavonoids, especially when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
A study suggests that semaglutide may protect the heart independently of weight loss, potentially through direct effects on cardiovascular health, with benefits observed across different weight groups and linked partly to reduced waist size, indicating broader uses for the drug beyond weight management.
The article explains supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a condition where the heart suddenly beats very fast due to electrical issues, often triggered by factors like exercise, dehydration, or caffeine. It advises stopping activity, staying calm, and performing vagal maneuvers to reset the heart rhythm, and emphasizes seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Dr. Bondre explains that CT Angiography is not always necessary for detecting heart blockages, especially in low-risk, asymptomatic patients with normal ECG and stress test results. Standard tests like ECG and stress tests are effective for initial assessment, but have limitations in detecting all artery issues. CT Angio provides detailed images and is useful for intermediate or high-risk patients or when other tests are inconclusive, but it involves radiation, risks from contrast dye, and higher costs. Medical guidelines recommend using CT Angio selectively, emphasizing lifestyle modifications for prevention.
Simple daily habits like cooking at home, drinking water instead of sugary drinks, eating fruits and vegetables, walking after meals, and practicing deep breathing can significantly protect your heart and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Dr. Kunal Sood.
