Mercy Health shares heart health tips for the Big Game

YOUNGSTOWN - As anticipation for the Big Game grows, Mercy Health warns that stress and emotion could pose hidden heart health risks from the event.
Fans are encouraged to create a game plan for heart-healthy celebrations.
Mercy Health interventional cardiologist Dr. Fadi Ghrair says, "The thrill of the game can lead to spikes in adrenaline and stress levels."
He continues, "Being aware of how these stressors impact your heart is especially important for those with preexisting conditions."
Stress hormones such as adrenaline are released, which can raise heart rate and blood pressure as well as increase cardiovascular risks with underlying health issues during Sunday's big game.
Additionally, research highlights acute stress from high-stake situations can constrict blood vessels and negatively affect overall heart function.
Here are some heart-healthy strategies for Game Day:
- Take breathers: Use timeouts, commercials or halftime to practice relaxation such as deep breathing to lower stress.
- Stay hydrated: Drink a lot of water and cut sugary or alcoholic beverages to a minimum to prevent dehydration and unnecessary strain on your heart.
- Control caffeine: Skip excessive coffee or energy drinks to avoid elevated heart rates such as opting for caffeine-free options.
- Keep moving: Combine physical activity into your day such as walking around, stretching or even tossing a football as this will alleviate stress and boost endorphins.
- Balance your plate: Include heart-friendly snacks like vegetables, fruits and lean proteins to avoid overloading on salt and fats.
"The benefit of sustainable, mindful choices is that we can enjoy big events, while also prioritizing our health. You don't have to sacrifice fun to protect your health," says Dr. Ghrair.
He adds, "Adopting healthy habits year-round, such as regular physical activity, nutritious eating, and effective stress management, is key to sustaining cardiovascular wellness."