Tips and Tricks

Doctor issues urgent warning for popular habit that ‘doubles risk of heart attack’

Popular TV doctor Dr. Hilary Jones has shared his expert advice on maintaining optimal heart health, along with a strong warning about a common habit that can “double the chance” of a heart attack.

The beloved GP, a regular guest on popular British breakfast programs such as Good Morning Britain, appeared on Healthspan’s Instagram to present his crucial “heart health hacks.”

Using a life-sized model of a heart to emphasize his message, the 71-year-old explained in the reel: “Take a look at this, this is exactly what your heart looks like. I think you’ll agree, considering what it does for you, that it’s worth looking after.”

Dr. Hilary emphasized that protecting the heart involves shedding extra weight and quitting a particularly harmful habit.

He elaborated: “Don’t strain it [your heart] by carrying too much weight, exercise it regularly – it’s a muscle – it loves a bit of exercise.”

Additionally, he stressed the importance of avoiding excessive cholesterol to prevent “clogging up your heart.”

His most urgent advice was reserved for those dependent on a dangerous vice, as he added: “Don’t smoke, your heart hates that.”

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NHS guidance highlights that smokers face a considerably higher risk of heart and other cardiovascular issues, including strokes and heart attacks, with more than double the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack compared to non-smokers.

Giving up smoking permanently not only improves physical health but also significantly lowers the chances of smoking-related illnesses such as cancers, lung disease, heart problems, and strokes. Additionally, it can have a positive impact on mental health.

The NHS has curated a list of recommended products to help individuals quit smoking, alongside various support resources for those ready to make the change.

A GP has created a series of short, engaging guides, available in video format on Healthspan’s Instagram. These videos cover a range of topics, from relaxation techniques to the importance of monitoring blood pressure.

In one of the videos, he emphasizes prioritizing “relaxation” as a key factor in maintaining heart health, suggesting the inclusion of regular breaks to disconnect from daily stressors.

Dr. Hilary stated: “Life can be pretty stressful, can’t it. Constant, relentless, exhausting – but too much stress is bad for our heart.”

He urged viewers to “do what I do” by setting aside time in their schedules “just for yourself in your diary and chill out a bit.”

The doctor concluded by saying, “Your heart will love you for it.”

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In another instance, he cautioned that “millions” of people are unknowingly living with high blood pressure.

Wearing a blood pressure monitor himself, he emphasized: “They’re at risk of something they really don’t want, like stroke or heart attack, so get yours checked out soon.”

Referring to the monitor on his arm, he encouraged: “See your GP or your pharmacist or get a do it yourself device like this.”

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