According to the American Heart Association, more people die from heart attacks during the last week of December than any other time of the year. Christmas Day tops the list, followed by December 26 (second most cardiac deaths occur), and New Year’s Day (third most cardiac deaths occur).
An overindulgence of salt, fatty foods and alcohol during the holidays puts our bodies at greater risk of a cardio event occurring. In addition, less sleep and exercise due to holiday parties and other holiday obligations like shopping and decorating leads to added stress and a compromised immune system.
January marks peak of cardiovascular disease deaths. Doctors say the cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict to keep the core warm. Constriction also increases blood pressure which puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system.
Read the full article here.