According to Dr. Tran Thi Hai Yen - Department of On-Demand Treatment, Central Endocrinology Hospital, familiar factors such as salty food, alcohol, lack of exercise and stress can silently harm the cardiovascular system.
Tet days are a time for gathering, resting and enjoying the joyful atmosphere of the beginning of the year. However, this is also a period when many people are prone to high blood pressure due to changes in living habits. Identifying risk factors will help us proactively protect cardiovascular health during this special holiday.
First of all, foods high in salt and fat are common causes. Traditional Tet dishes such as banh chung, braised pork, pickled vegetables, pickled onions or spring rolls often contain high levels of salt to preserve and enhance flavor. In addition, processed foods such as sausages and sausages also have significant sodium content. When the body consumes too much salt, water will be trapped in the blood, increasing circulatory volume and putting pressure on blood vessel walls, thereby causing blood pressure to rise. In addition, foods rich in saturated fat can increase cholesterol, negatively affecting the cardiovascular system.
The second factor is alcohol consumption. Tet is often accompanied by gatherings, congratulations and raising glasses. Overdrinking can cause heart rhythm disorders, temporary vasodilation, but then stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to high blood pressure. Alcohol also reduces the effectiveness of blood pressure medication in people with underlying diseases.
Next, a sedentary lifestyle also contributes significantly. During vacations, many people spend most of their time eating, watching TV, playing phones or sleeping for a long time. Sedentaryness slows down metabolism, makes it easy to gain weight and reduces the elasticity of blood vessels. This makes the heart have to work harder to pump blood, thereby increasing blood pressure.
Stress and tension during Tet are not uncommon. Pressure to prepare for Tet, spend, visit relatives or worry about work after the holidays can cause the body to secrete more stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These substances make the heart beat faster and vasoconstrict, leading to increased blood pressure.
To limit the risk, everyone should eat moderately bland food, increase green vegetables and fruits, limit alcohol and beer, maintain gentle exercise and maintain a comfortable spirit. A happy Tet is only complete when it comes with stable health.
