Dr. Al Sears M.D. shares 10 key strategies to keep fans alive through every play and beyond the final whistle...
By Tammy Lawman
This year’s Super Bowl battle between the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts is sure to have some heart-stopping plays. But, when it comes to sports, heart-stopping can be more than just a descriptive phrase. Researchers have found that the high tension and stress levels of sporting events can lead to more heart attacks.
In a comparison of death rates from heart attacks in 2002 and 2001, doctors in Switzerland found that deaths from heart attacks outside the hospital were 60% higher during the World Cup. And research in the British Medical Journal found that heart attacks increased by 25% when England lost to Argentina in a penalty shoot-out during the 1998 World Cup.
The American Heart Association estimates that 80 million adult Americans (one in three) suffer from some type of cardiovascular disease, putting them at high risk for a heart attack.
But, don't let this news put a damper on your Super Bowl plans. Dr. Al Sears, M.D. has some heart-healthy tips for your party.
1.Exercise before the game and again during half time. Short bursts of activity are more helpful and five to ten minutes of physical activity is ideal. Stretching, jumping rope, or throwing a football with friends are simple and easy ways to relax your body and mind before the big game.
2.Take CoQ10 before the game. Co-enzyme Q10 is a powerful anti-oxidant that reduces your risk of heart disease.
3.Limit your intake of alcohol and tobacco. Over-consumption of these two potentially dangerous substances is a leading risk factor for sudden cardiac arrest.
4.Eat in moderation. Many heart attacks are reported to occur after eating an exceptionally large meal.
5.Choose healthy snacks like broccoli, cauliflower, fruits with the skin, seeds, and nuts. Avoid binging on chips, pizza, and other salty and fatty foods.
6.During the commercials, take a break. Getting off the couch, moving around, and talking to friends helps break up the intensity of an exciting game.
7.Manage your anger. If the official makes a bad call, don't take it personally. Excess anger and yelling at the TV will increase your chances of heart problems.
8.Avoid gambling or only wager an amount you're comfortable losing. Excess adrenaline caused by excitement, worry, or excess anxiety increases the risk of heart attack.
9.Pay attention to the warning signs, which are heart attack, dizziness, chest pain, trouble breathing, and nausea. If you experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
10.Make a fitness program a regular part of your daily life.
For more information on Dr. Sears, please visit www.pacerevolution.com
Edited by Militza Richard