As per a study presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2023, extended periods of physical inactivity during childhood might set the stage for future heart attacks and strokes. This risk exists even among individuals with normal body weights and healthy blood pressure levels. The research revealed a connection between sedentary behaviour from childhood through young adulthood and the risk of cardiac complications.
Dr Andrew Agbaje, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland, noted that the combined hours of screen time among young people result in a greater strain on the heart. This observation has been supported by studies conducted in adults, which have shown an increased susceptibility to heart attacks and strokes. Dr Agbaje emphasised the importance of increased physical activity for children and teenagers to preserve their long-term health.
In their investigation, scientists equipped children with a smartwatch containing an activity tracker for seven days when they were 11. This process was subsequently repeated when they reached 15 and 24.
The assessment of the left ventricle's weight within the heart was conducted using echocardiography, a specific type of ultrasound scan when the participants were 17 and 24 years old.
The researchers analysed the connection between sedentary time (ages 11-24) and heart measurements (ages 17-24), accounting for age, gender, blood pressure, body fat, smoking, physical activity, and socioeconomic status.
The study demonstrated that at 11 years old, children engaged in an average of 362 minutes of sedentary behaviour per day. This duration increased to 474 minutes per day during adolescence (at 15 years of age) and further to 531 minutes per day in young adulthood (at 24 years of age). This indicates an average rise of 169 minutes (equivalent to 2.8 hours) in daily sedentary time between childhood and young adulthood.
Dr Agbaje emphasised that their study indicated a correlation between the accumulation of inactive time and heart damage, regardless of body weight and blood pressure. He recommended that parents encourage children and teenagers to be more active by taking them for walks and limiting their time on social media and video games.
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Impact of Lifestyle Modifications On Cardiovascular Health
Incorporating a healthful way of life encompassing balanced nutrition, consistent physical activity, and proficient stress management can significantly influence cardiovascular well-being. Dr Renish Bera, Consultant Cardiologist, HCG Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, explained the impact of lifestyle modifications on cardiovascular health.
Importance Of A Balanced Diet
Dr Bera said that maintaining optimal cardiovascular health relies significantly on a balanced diet. Prioritising nutrient-rich foods while restricting saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol intake is essential. A diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts and olive oil can mitigate the risk of heart disease.
Importance Of Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for heart health. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling strengthen the heart, boost circulation, control weight, manage blood pressure, and lower diabetes risk. If you're new to exercise, start slowly and consult your healthcare provider for a suitable plan.
Also Read: How Does Exercising Reduce The Risk Of Cardiovascular Diseases?
Impact Of Stress
Dr Bera informed that chronic stress harms heart health by raising blood pressure and heart disease risk through stress hormones. Manage stress with activities like yoga, meditation, exercise, and balancing work-life. These techniques, along with nurturing relationships and enjoying hobbies, aid heart health.
[Disclaimer: This article consists of information based on a study and includes expert information. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you notice any cardiac problems to rule out the complications.]
