Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Can Natural Disasters Impact Your Mental Health? Here's What Experts Say

Throughout the first week of April, the state of Kentucky witnessed flooding, due to heavy rains, specifically in the Franklin County. The reason being, it is located on the Kentucky River for over 200 years. While such natural disasters can cause distress in terms of physical safety, expert also reveals that such natural disasters could impact one's <span>mental health</span> too. 

Natural disasters like Kentucky's recent flooding can have serious impacts on victim's mental health, reveals Christal Badour, associate professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky and a trauma recovery research. 

As reported in <em>Weku NPR</em>, the UK psychologist explains that reactions to traumatic events typically fall into short-term and long-term symptoms. These include people feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and difficulty communicating. While most people eventually recover without lasting effects, some may struggle for a longer duration. 

These long-term issues include depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Badour also notes that people who already had a mental health difficulty before the natural disaster could also further feel isolated. Along with that, individuals with fewer financial resources could be at more risk of long-term problems. 

<h4>Are These Long-term Symptoms Common?</h4>

According to a report from Clinical Psychology Review, 20 to 80% of people will experience long-term symptoms after a disaster. These rates could vary depending on the type of disaster one faces. PTSD symptoms often improve after the first year, however, depression and anxiety are more likely to linger. 

There have been previous studies too that confirm the same. As per a 2024 study, titled Impact of <em>Natural Disasters on Mental Health: Evidence and Implications</em>, by Eamin Z Heanoy and Norman R Brown, notes: "Natural disasters are large-scale catastrophic events, and they are increasing in frequency and severity. Converging evidence indicates that the mental health consequences of disasters are extensive and are often associated with trauma and the disruption of personal and socioeconomic factors in people’s lives."

However, the study also notes that although most individuals who experience disaster-related traumatic events do not develop mental illnesses, some could experience adverse psychological effects of the disaster. 

Another expert, Nomy Levy-Carric, MD, MPhil, writes for Mass General Brigham, which is an institute dedicated to serving the community and enhancing patient care, teaching, and research, notes that natural disaster can indeed leave a lasting impact on individuals, families, and often an entire community. 

Levy Carrick notes: "A person’s reaction depends on many factors, including their past experiences, what is happening in their life at that moment, the nature of their exposure, and the support available to them as they rebuild. The sudden loss of control and uncertainty can be overwhelming, making it harder to cope in both the short and long term."

<h4>What Are The Types Of Natural Disasters?</h4>

<ul><li>Hurricanes and tropical storms</li><li>Earthquakes</li><li>Tornadoes</li><li>Wildfire</li><li>Floods</li><li>Blizzards and winter storms</li><li>Drought and extreme heat</li><li>Landslides and mudslides</li></ul>

The doctor notes the Psychological First Aid or PFA provides a structured way to support emotional recovery immediately after a disaster. 

However, notes Badour, there is still a major gap in treatment. Most disaster relief services only last up to one year.

“After that year has passed, a lot of people feel like there's no one there to help them, especially if you're in a community that was already lacking in mental health support and resources,” she said.

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Throughout the first week of April, the state of Kentucky witnessed flooding, due to heavy rains, specifically in the Franklin County. The reason being, it is located on the Kentucky River for over 200 years. While such natural disasters can cause distress in terms of physical safety, expert also reveals that such natural disasters could impact one's mental health too. Natural disasters like Kentucky's recent flooding can have serious impacts on victim's mental health, reveals Christal Badour, associate professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky and a trauma recovery research. As reported in Weku NPR, the UK psychologist explains that reactions to traumatic events typically fall into short-term and long-term symptoms. These include people feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, and difficulty communicating. While most people eventually recover without lasting effects, some may struggle for a longer duration. These long-term issues include depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Badour also notes that people who already had a mental health difficulty before the natural disaster could also further feel isolated. Along with that, individuals with fewer financial resources could be at more risk of long-term problems. Are These Long-term Symptoms Common?According to a report from Clinical Psychology Review, 20 to 80% of people will experience long-term symptoms after a disaster. These rates could vary depending on the type of disaster one faces. PTSD symptoms often improve after the first year, however, depression and anxiety are more likely to linger. What Do Other Experts Say?There have been previous studies too that confirm the same. As per a 2024 study, titled Impact of Natural Disasters on Mental Health: Evidence and Implications, by Eamin Z Heanoy and Norman R Brown, notes: "Natural disasters are large-scale catastrophic events, and they are increasing in frequency and severity. Converging evidence indicates that the mental health consequences of disasters are extensive and are often associated with trauma and the disruption of personal and socioeconomic factors in people’s lives."However, the study also notes that although most individuals who experience disaster-related traumatic events do not develop mental illnesses, some could experience adverse psychological effects of the disaster. Another expert, Nomy Levy-Carric, MD, MPhil, writes for Mass General Brigham, which is an institute dedicated to serving the community and enhancing patient care, teaching, and research, notes that natural disaster can indeed leave a lasting impact on individuals, families, and often an entire community. Levy Carrick notes: "A person’s reaction depends on many factors, including their past experiences, what is happening in their life at that moment, the nature of their exposure, and the support available to them as they rebuild. The sudden loss of control and uncertainty can be overwhelming, making it harder to cope in both the short and long term."What Are The Types Of Natural Disasters?Hurricanes and tropical stormsEarthquakesTornadoesWildfireFloodsBlizzards and winter stormsDrought and extreme heatLandslides and mudslidesThe doctor notes the Psychological First Aid or PFA provides a structured way to support emotional recovery immediately after a disaster. However, notes Badour, there is still a major gap in treatment. Most disaster relief services only last up to one year.“After that year has passed, a lot of people feel like there's no one there to help them, especially if you're in a community that was already lacking in mental health support and resources,” she said.

can natural disasters impact your mental health? here's what experts say

Tanya Dutt

Losing Weight= Losing Health? Ozempic Risks You Can’t Afford To Ignore

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For millions chasing rapid <span>weight loss</span>, Ozempic (semaglutide) has become a household name. As a miracle weight-loss pill, it's being prescribed at record levels throughout the U.S. But as the trend picks up speed, so do the alarms—that from physicians, scientists, and public health advocates. The question is no longer "Does it work?" but "At what cost?

Although semaglutide has undoubtedly enabled some to lose weight, the story further down is a disturbing one: long-term weight loss in many cases is short-lived, side effects are not uncommon, and when they are discontinued, most individuals quickly regain the lost weight.

Originally conceived to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide operates by copying the GLP-1 hormone to control appetite and blood glucose. Under the Ozempic and Wegovy labels, it has since blown up in the weight loss industry, with over 137 million American adults now eligible for its application but whereas its advertising brags of speedy solutions, the science paints a grimmer picture.

One recent letter to JAMA Cardiology by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine's Dr. Vanita Rahman advises prudence. "Public perception of semaglutide as an obesity solution for the long term must be reassessed," states Rahman. "Yes, it does it for some, but most still have a weight problem—even years after use.

Early results with semaglutide are promising: most patients lose weight in the initial few months. With time, though, this gain decelerates. On average, in the seminal SELECT trial, only 12% of patients achieved a normal body weight after four years on the medication. The majority were overweight or obese.

Even worse is what occurs when individuals discontinue its use. In STEP-1 extension research, individuals regained almost all their lost weight when the drug was withdrawn. This rebound raises grave concerns about sustainability of outcomes—and the psychological damage of yo-yo dieting on a pharmaceutical level.

<h2>Side Effects of Ozempic You Aren't Hearing About</h2>

Semaglutide's promise is accompanied by a longening list of possible side effects. Users often complain about stomach troubles like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. But beyond these, new studies point to more serious risks.

In a single observational study, semaglutide was associated with more than four times the risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy—a serious although uncommon condition that can cause loss of vision. The risk was even greater among those taking the drug only for weight loss.

In the meantime, its long-term safety is still unmapped territory. With so many new consumers pouring onto the market, doctors are demanding more transparency, improved post-market monitoring, and stricter long-term research.

<h2>Plant-Based Alternative That's Been There All Along</h2>

Though semaglutide might deliver quick results, it's not the sole—or the safest—path to long-term weight loss. Dozens of years of research have conclusively demonstrated that a plant-based, whole-food diet can create meaningful and lasting changes not just in weight, but in overall metabolic function.

The BROAD study, for instance, compared a control group receiving standard care to those eating a low-fat, plant-based diet. After six months, the plant-based group lost 12.1 kg (26.6 pounds) on average, compared to the control group losing just 1.6 kg (3.5 pounds). And the advantages didn't end at the scales—the plant-based group experienced larger decreases in cholesterol, blood pressure, and other significant markers of heart health.

Despite this strong evidence, lifestyle interventions are frequently under-employed. According to a new Physicians Committee/Morning Consult poll, even though half of Americans grasp the advantages of plant-based eating, just 1 in 5 report that their primary care physician talks about it with them. This disconnect between understanding and action perhaps is driving the public's excessive reliance on pill-for-aill fixes.

<h2>Why It is Important to Reframe the Weight Loss Conversation?</h2>

In the international crusade to make waistlines smaller, it is simple to remember that there is more to health than a digit on the scale. Obesity is a chronic, complex disease with physical, emotional, and social components. There is no one magic pill—however promising—able to treat all of that.

Semaglutide can be a fast route to weight loss, but it doesn't educate healthy habits, it doesn't feed the body, and it doesn't have no side effects. For those contemplating Ozempic, it's important to balance the pros and cons—not only financially, but in terms of maintaining health in the long term.

<h2>Is Losing Weight Worth Losing Your Health?</h2>

Ultimately, the most effective weight loss plan is one that promotes your overall health—not for six months, but for the long term. A healthy lifestyle full of whole, plant-based foods, regular exercise, and emotional well-being provides benefits that no injection can match.

Before writing a prescription, ask your doctor about evidence-based nutrition approaches, support for lifestyle, and an all-around plan that places your well-being—not merely your weight—at the forefront.

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For millions chasing rapid weight loss, Ozempic (semaglutide) has become a household name. As a miracle weight-loss pill, it's being prescribed at record levels throughout the U.S. But as the trend picks up speed, so do the alarms—that from physicians, scientists, and public health advocates. The question is no longer "Does it work?" but "At what cost?Although semaglutide has undoubtedly enabled some to lose weight, the story further down is a disturbing one: long-term weight loss in many cases is short-lived, side effects are not uncommon, and when they are discontinued, most individuals quickly regain the lost weight.Originally conceived to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide operates by copying the GLP-1 hormone to control appetite and blood glucose. Under the Ozempic and Wegovy labels, it has since blown up in the weight loss industry, with over 137 million American adults now eligible for its application but whereas its advertising brags of speedy solutions, the science paints a grimmer picture.One recent letter to JAMA Cardiology by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine's Dr. Vanita Rahman advises prudence. "Public perception of semaglutide as an obesity solution for the long term must be reassessed," states Rahman. "Yes, it does it for some, but most still have a weight problem—even years after use.Early results with semaglutide are promising: most patients lose weight in the initial few months. With time, though, this gain decelerates. On average, in the seminal SELECT trial, only 12% of patients achieved a normal body weight after four years on the medication. The majority were overweight or obese.Even worse is what occurs when individuals discontinue its use. In STEP-1 extension research, individuals regained almost all their lost weight when the drug was withdrawn. This rebound raises grave concerns about sustainability of outcomes—and the psychological damage of yo-yo dieting on a pharmaceutical level.Side Effects of Ozempic You Aren't Hearing AboutSemaglutide's promise is accompanied by a longening list of possible side effects. Users often complain about stomach troubles like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. But beyond these, new studies point to more serious risks.In a single observational study, semaglutide was associated with more than four times the risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy—a serious although uncommon condition that can cause loss of vision. The risk was even greater among those taking the drug only for weight loss.In the meantime, its long-term safety is still unmapped territory. With so many new consumers pouring onto the market, doctors are demanding more transparency, improved post-market monitoring, and stricter long-term research.Plant-Based Alternative That's Been There All AlongThough semaglutide might deliver quick results, it's not the sole—or the safest—path to long-term weight loss. Dozens of years of research have conclusively demonstrated that a plant-based, whole-food diet can create meaningful and lasting changes not just in weight, but in overall metabolic function.The BROAD study, for instance, compared a control group receiving standard care to those eating a low-fat, plant-based diet. After six months, the plant-based group lost 12.1 kg (26.6 pounds) on average, compared to the control group losing just 1.6 kg (3.5 pounds). And the advantages didn't end at the scales—the plant-based group experienced larger decreases in cholesterol, blood pressure, and other significant markers of heart health.Despite this strong evidence, lifestyle interventions are frequently under-employed. According to a new Physicians Committee/Morning Consult poll, even though half of Americans grasp the advantages of plant-based eating, just 1 in 5 report that their primary care physician talks about it with them. This disconnect between understanding and action perhaps is driving the public's excessive reliance on pill-for-aill fixes.Why It is Important to Reframe the Weight Loss Conversation?In the international crusade to make waistlines smaller, it is simple to remember that there is more to health than a digit on the scale. Obesity is a chronic, complex disease with physical, emotional, and social components. There is no one magic pill—however promising—able to treat all of that.Semaglutide can be a fast route to weight loss, but it doesn't educate healthy habits, it doesn't feed the body, and it doesn't have no side effects. For those contemplating Ozempic, it's important to balance the pros and cons—not only financially, but in terms of maintaining health in the long term.Is Losing Weight Worth Losing Your Health?Ultimately, the most effective weight loss plan is one that promotes your overall health—not for six months, but for the long term. A healthy lifestyle full of whole, plant-based foods, regular exercise, and emotional well-being provides benefits that no injection can match.Before writing a prescription, ask your doctor about evidence-based nutrition approaches, support for lifestyle, and an all-around plan that places your well-being—not merely your weight—at the forefront.

losing weight= losing health? ozempic risks you can’t afford to ignore

Wonder Why Your Head Won’t Stop Pounding? Time To Check Your Oral Care Routine

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If you’re one of the millions of women struggling with unexplained headaches, body pain, or even fibromyalgia—and you’ve ruled out the usual suspects like stress, sleep, or hormones—it may be time to look inside your mouth. Literally.

A powerful new study in Frontiers in Pain Research revealed a strong link between bad oral hygiene and higher risk of migraines and chronic body pain. The study implies that neglecting your morning brushing and flossing isn't just exposing your teeth to harm—perhaps it's also driving silent inflammation that amplifies pain sensitivity throughout the body.

<h2>Link Between Oral Microbes and Chronic Pain</h2>

In a joint study at the University of Sydney, scientists studied 158 New Zealand women, all of whom received thorough dental examinations and gave saliva samples for microbial testing. They compared their self-reported history of migraines, <span>fibromyalgia</span>, and abdominal pain to both their oral health and microbiota. The findings were remarkable.

Women with the poorest oral health—characterized by higher levels of plaque, gum disease, and inflammation—had a 49% greater chance of experiencing migraines and were 60% more likely to experience moderate to severe body pain.

“We’ve long known that oral microbes play a role in systemic inflammation,” said lead researcher Sharon Erdrich, a doctoral candidate at the University of Sydney. “But this is the first study to show a clear link between poor oral health and the kind of widespread pain experienced in fibromyalgia and migraine sufferers.”

<h2>Why Bacteria in Your Mouth Might Be Messing With Your Brain?</h2>

The mouth, with more than 700 microbial species calling it home, is an intricate ecosystem. When brushing and flossing routines fail, bad bacteria flourish. These microbes create chemicals that can stimulate inflammation, disrupt neurotransmitter signals, and modulate the nervous system's ability to perceive pain. 

Senior researcher Joanna Harnett described how these pain-causing microbial products may pass into the bloodstream and impact pain processing centers in the brain, making one more sensitive to pain.

"Sleep disturbances, headaches, and fatigue—all the hallmarks of fibromyalgia—can have a microbial cause, and it starts in oral hygiene," said Harnett.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive problems. It is most commonly found in women aged 20-50 and is notoriously hard to diagnose, going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.

Although the precise etiology is not known, the syndrome has been thought to be related to aberrations in pain signal processing in the brain. There is also emerging evidence of interaction among the immune system, gut microbiota, and recently, the oral microbiome.

<h2>Surprising Symptom in Your Mouth</h2>

For women who experience fibromyalgia or migraines, symptoms tend to flare at random. This research now adds that the status of oral health could be an untapped piece in the diagnostic picture.

Four different microbial species were found to be more common in women who complained of increased pain severity. Researchers are convinced that these microbes affect inflammatory pathways that render receptors for pain more active and sensitive.

This research isn't merely providing an intriguing microbial connection—it's a wake-up call about how we do oral hygiene.

From being a mere topic of pearly whites and good breath, brushing and flossing are now starting to be viewed as weapons in the fight against chronic pain. Better oral hygiene may be an inexpensive, easy-to-reach solution for individuals struggling with migraine, fibromyalgia, or otherwise unexplained pain in the body.

We also hope these findings inspire healthcare professionals to include oral care evaluations in pain treatment plans," Erdrich said. "Particularly for women with chronic, difficult-to-treat diseases."

<h2>Tips to Maximize Your Oral Health And Ease the Pain</h2>

<ul><li>Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.</li><li>Drink enough water to promote healthy saliva flow, which keeps bacteria in check.</li><li>Avoid sweet foods and acidic drinks that fuel nasty microbes.</li><li>Schedule regular dental check-ups every six months.</li><li>Use an antibacterial mouthwash if advised by a dental professional.</li></ul>

Although further research is required to comprehend precisely how oral bacteria regulate pain, this research contributes to a mounting body of evidence that the mouth is considerably more linked to overall health than previously believed.

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If you’re one of the millions of women struggling with unexplained headaches, body pain, or even fibromyalgia—and you’ve ruled out the usual suspects like stress, sleep, or hormones—it may be time to look inside your mouth. Literally.A powerful new study in Frontiers in Pain Research revealed a strong link between bad oral hygiene and higher risk of migraines and chronic body pain. The study implies that neglecting your morning brushing and flossing isn't just exposing your teeth to harm—perhaps it's also driving silent inflammation that amplifies pain sensitivity throughout the body.Link Between Oral Microbes and Chronic PainIn a joint study at the University of Sydney, scientists studied 158 New Zealand women, all of whom received thorough dental examinations and gave saliva samples for microbial testing. They compared their self-reported history of migraines, fibromyalgia, and abdominal pain to both their oral health and microbiota. The findings were remarkable.Women with the poorest oral health—characterized by higher levels of plaque, gum disease, and inflammation—had a 49% greater chance of experiencing migraines and were 60% more likely to experience moderate to severe body pain.“We’ve long known that oral microbes play a role in systemic inflammation,” said lead researcher Sharon Erdrich, a doctoral candidate at the University of Sydney. “But this is the first study to show a clear link between poor oral health and the kind of widespread pain experienced in fibromyalgia and migraine sufferers.”Why Bacteria in Your Mouth Might Be Messing With Your Brain?The mouth, with more than 700 microbial species calling it home, is an intricate ecosystem. When brushing and flossing routines fail, bad bacteria flourish. These microbes create chemicals that can stimulate inflammation, disrupt neurotransmitter signals, and modulate the nervous system's ability to perceive pain. Senior researcher Joanna Harnett described how these pain-causing microbial products may pass into the bloodstream and impact pain processing centers in the brain, making one more sensitive to pain."Sleep disturbances, headaches, and fatigue—all the hallmarks of fibromyalgia—can have a microbial cause, and it starts in oral hygiene," said Harnett.What is Fibromyalgia?Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive problems. It is most commonly found in women aged 20-50 and is notoriously hard to diagnose, going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.Although the precise etiology is not known, the syndrome has been thought to be related to aberrations in pain signal processing in the brain. There is also emerging evidence of interaction among the immune system, gut microbiota, and recently, the oral microbiome.Surprising Symptom in Your MouthFor women who experience fibromyalgia or migraines, symptoms tend to flare at random. This research now adds that the status of oral health could be an untapped piece in the diagnostic picture.Four different microbial species were found to be more common in women who complained of increased pain severity. Researchers are convinced that these microbes affect inflammatory pathways that render receptors for pain more active and sensitive.This research isn't merely providing an intriguing microbial connection—it's a wake-up call about how we do oral hygiene.From being a mere topic of pearly whites and good breath, brushing and flossing are now starting to be viewed as weapons in the fight against chronic pain. Better oral hygiene may be an inexpensive, easy-to-reach solution for individuals struggling with migraine, fibromyalgia, or otherwise unexplained pain in the body.We also hope these findings inspire healthcare professionals to include oral care evaluations in pain treatment plans," Erdrich said. "Particularly for women with chronic, difficult-to-treat diseases."Tips to Maximize Your Oral Health And Ease the PainBrush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.Drink enough water to promote healthy saliva flow, which keeps bacteria in check.Avoid sweet foods and acidic drinks that fuel nasty microbes.Schedule regular dental check-ups every six months.Use an antibacterial mouthwash if advised by a dental professional.Although further research is required to comprehend precisely how oral bacteria regulate pain, this research contributes to a mounting body of evidence that the mouth is considerably more linked to overall health than previously believed.

wonder why your head won’t stop pounding? time to check your oral care routine

Recovering From A Heart Attack? Avoid These Dangerous Mistakes

Recovering From a Heart Attack? Avoid These Dangerous Mistakes

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A heart attack marks a life-altering moment, one that demands more than just medication and doctor visits. It calls for a complete reimagining of daily habits, especially around one of the most overlooked yet consequential risk factors: prolonged sitting.

While conventional recovery advice has long emphasized formal exercise routines, groundbreaking new research suggests that something as simple as reducing sedentary time—and replacing it with even light physical movement or additional sleep can dramatically lower the risk of another cardiac event.

A recent study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes has illuminated a critical insight: lounging too much after a heart attack may be setting survivors up for a repeat episode—or worse.

Here's why sitting is so risky and what you can do to truly recover—not just survive—after a heart attack.

<h2>Avoid The 14-Hour Sedentary Trap</h2>

In a prospective study that followed over 600 adults, researchers tracked heart attack and chest pain patients for a year after discharge from Columbia University Medical Center. Using wearable movement-tracking devices, they found that individuals who were sedentary for more than 14 hours a day faced more than double the risk of experiencing another heart-related event—or even dying.

Patients in the most inactive group were 2.5 times more likely to suffer complications than their more mobile peers. It wasn’t just about formal workouts—total movement throughout the day, including light activity and even sleep, was associated with better outcomes.

More physical activity and more sleep are healthier than sitting, one doesn’t have to start running marathons after a cardiovascular event to see benefits.

<h2>What Happens When You Replace Sitting?</h2>

What makes this study especially impactful is the practical takeaway: you don’t need to engage in strenuous gym sessions to gain protection. Swapping just 30 minutes of sedentary time with:

Moderate-to-vigorous activity (e.g., brisk walking or cycling) slashed the risk of another event or death by 61%.

Light activity (e.g., casual walking or doing chores) cut risk by 50%.

Even sleep lowered risk by 14%, underlining the restorative value of proper rest.

We were surprised that replacing sedentary time with sleep also lowered risk. Sleep is a restorative behavior that helps the body and mind recover, which is especially important after a serious health event like a heart attack.

These findings offer a lifeline to many patients who struggle with intensive exercise, especially older adults or those with mobility limitations.

<h2>What Really Counts as Heart-Healthy Physical Activity?</h2>

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity movement, ideally spread throughout the week. You don’t have to hit the gym daily; even a brisk 30-minute walk five times a week checks the box. How do you gauge intensity?

<h2>What Qualifies As Physical Activity?</h2>

Moderate activity raises your heart rate and gets you breathing harder—you can talk but not sing.

Examples: walking fast, dancing, biking on flat terrain, doubles tennis, pushing a lawnmower.

Vigorous activity means you're breathing hard and fast—speaking more than a few words becomes difficult.

Examples: running, swimming laps, biking uphill, singles tennis.

But if you’re fresh from a cardiac event, even just standing, stretching, walking around your home, or cooking a meal counts toward meaningful movement. The key is to avoid long, uninterrupted bouts of sitting.

<h2>Why Sleep is Important For Cardiac Recovery?</h2>

Though often overshadowed by diet and exercise, sleep is emerging as a potent force in post-heart attack healing. Replacing sedentary time with extra sleep—particularly for those who may be chronically sleep-deprived—was linked to a tangible reduction in risk.

Adequate sleep (typically 7–9 hours for adults) aids in regulating blood pressure, reducing stress hormones, and optimizing metabolic function—all of which are critical in cardiac recovery.

<h2>Lifestyle Changes To Follow or Better Recovery</h2>

This study challenges the one-size-fits-all narrative of cardiac recovery. Instead of prescribing just exercise, experts are now urging clinicians and patients alike to adopt a more holistic, flexible, and personalized approach that includes:

<ul><li>Reducing sedentary behavior in any form</li><li>Encouraging light physical movement as often as possible</li><li>Prioritizing good-quality sleep</li><li>Shifting the mindset from structured workouts to continuous movement throughout the day</li></ul>

Recovery doesn’t require an Olympic regimen. What matters most is your daily rhythm—how often you move, how well you sleep, and how little time you spend motionless. Standing up during a phone call, walking a few extra steps during lunch, or going to bed 30 minutes earlier can all add up to a healthier heart.

Surviving a heart attack is just the first step. Thriving afterward depends on small, consistent actions that respect the body's need for motion and rest.

heart health

heart attack recovery

post-heart attack mistakes

sedentary lifestyle risks

cardiac rehab tips

A heart attack marks a life-altering moment, one that demands more than just medication and doctor visits. It calls for a complete reimagining of daily habits, especially around one of the most overlooked yet consequential risk factors: prolonged sitting.While conventional recovery advice has long emphasized formal exercise routines, groundbreaking new research suggests that something as simple as reducing sedentary time—and replacing it with even light physical movement or additional sleep can dramatically lower the risk of another cardiac event.A recent study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes has illuminated a critical insight: lounging too much after a heart attack may be setting survivors up for a repeat episode—or worse.Here's why sitting is so risky and what you can do to truly recover—not just survive—after a heart attack.Avoid The 14-Hour Sedentary TrapIn a prospective study that followed over 600 adults, researchers tracked heart attack and chest pain patients for a year after discharge from Columbia University Medical Center. Using wearable movement-tracking devices, they found that individuals who were sedentary for more than 14 hours a day faced more than double the risk of experiencing another heart-related event—or even dying.Patients in the most inactive group were 2.5 times more likely to suffer complications than their more mobile peers. It wasn’t just about formal workouts—total movement throughout the day, including light activity and even sleep, was associated with better outcomes.More physical activity and more sleep are healthier than sitting, one doesn’t have to start running marathons after a cardiovascular event to see benefits.What Happens When You Replace Sitting?What makes this study especially impactful is the practical takeaway: you don’t need to engage in strenuous gym sessions to gain protection. Swapping just 30 minutes of sedentary time with:Moderate-to-vigorous activity (e.g., brisk walking or cycling) slashed the risk of another event or death by 61%.Light activity (e.g., casual walking or doing chores) cut risk by 50%.Even sleep lowered risk by 14%, underlining the restorative value of proper rest.We were surprised that replacing sedentary time with sleep also lowered risk. Sleep is a restorative behavior that helps the body and mind recover, which is especially important after a serious health event like a heart attack.These findings offer a lifeline to many patients who struggle with intensive exercise, especially older adults or those with mobility limitations.What Really Counts as Heart-Healthy Physical Activity?The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity movement, ideally spread throughout the week. You don’t have to hit the gym daily; even a brisk 30-minute walk five times a week checks the box. How do you gauge intensity?What Qualifies As Physical Activity?Moderate activity raises your heart rate and gets you breathing harder—you can talk but not sing.Examples: walking fast, dancing, biking on flat terrain, doubles tennis, pushing a lawnmower.Vigorous activity means you're breathing hard and fast—speaking more than a few words becomes difficult.Examples: running, swimming laps, biking uphill, singles tennis.But if you’re fresh from a cardiac event, even just standing, stretching, walking around your home, or cooking a meal counts toward meaningful movement. The key is to avoid long, uninterrupted bouts of sitting.Why Sleep is Important For Cardiac Recovery?Though often overshadowed by diet and exercise, sleep is emerging as a potent force in post-heart attack healing. Replacing sedentary time with extra sleep—particularly for those who may be chronically sleep-deprived—was linked to a tangible reduction in risk.Adequate sleep (typically 7–9 hours for adults) aids in regulating blood pressure, reducing stress hormones, and optimizing metabolic function—all of which are critical in cardiac recovery.Lifestyle Changes To Follow or Better RecoveryThis study challenges the one-size-fits-all narrative of cardiac recovery. Instead of prescribing just exercise, experts are now urging clinicians and patients alike to adopt a more holistic, flexible, and personalized approach that includes:Reducing sedentary behavior in any formEncouraging light physical movement as often as possiblePrioritizing good-quality sleepShifting the mindset from structured workouts to continuous movement throughout the dayRecovery doesn’t require an Olympic regimen. What matters most is your daily rhythm—how often you move, how well you sleep, and how little time you spend motionless. Standing up during a phone call, walking a few extra steps during lunch, or going to bed 30 minutes earlier can all add up to a healthier heart.Surviving a heart attack is just the first step. Thriving afterward depends on small, consistent actions that respect the body's need for motion and rest.