Social life and heart health
When mentioning protecting the heart, many people often immediately think of a healthy diet, exercising, or controlling blood pressure and cholesterol. However, more and more studies show that social life also plays an important role in cardiovascular health.
Dr. Priya Palimkar - cardiologist, senior consultant at Sahyadri Specialized Hospital (India) - said that the heart not only responds to physical activity but is also influenced by emotional and social experiences. According to her, when people maintain strong relationships and receive support from family and friends, the body tends to handle stress more effectively.
Positive social interactions help the body release comfort hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin. These substances can reduce cortisol levels, the body's main stress hormone. When cortisol is reduced, blood pressure and heart rate tend to be more stable, thereby reducing the risk of blood vessel damage.
Conversely, prolonged stress can lead to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and inflammation in blood vessels. Over time, these changes can contribute to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
According to the World Health Organization, about one in six people in the world experience loneliness. The organization's global report on social connection estimates that loneliness involves about 871,000 deaths each year.
Loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease
Social isolation not only affects the mind but also directly affects the cardiovascular system. When a person feels lonely for a long time, the body is often in a state of chronic stress and releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
Dr. Priya Palimkar said that this condition can lead to higher blood pressure, increased inflammation in blood vessels and greater pressure on the heart. Research from Harvard University also shows that middle-aged people who feel lonely have a 24% higher risk of heart death than those with good social support networks.
Positive social life also helps form healthy habits. People with friends or family companions tend to maintain physical activity, eat balancedly, and adhere to treatment and periodic health check-ups.
Experts emphasize that dynamic social life does not mean having to participate in crowded gatherings. Quality of relationships is more important than quantity. Simple actions such as calling friends, walking with neighbors, participating in community activities or hobby groups can also help increase feelings of connection.
