Show Some Love to Your Heart

Say No to Crash Diets

February is the month of love, but it is also the month to show some love to your heart. Heart Health Month aims to raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of a heart-healthy lifestyle. While many people opt for crash diets to lose weight quickly, especially at the start of a new year, recent research suggests that these diets can have a negative impact on heart health.

The study conducted by the University of Oxford explored the impact of low-calorie diets on heart health. The study found that the sudden drop in calories (similar to the drop experienced when following a fad diet) causes fat to be released from different parts of the body into the blood, leading to it being taken up by the heart muscle. By the end of the first week, study participants' heart fat went up by 44 percent, and heart function decreased. The good news is that these negative changes were only temporary, and by the end of the eight-week study, heart function and heart fat were better than normal.

However, the researchers raised concerns about the impact of crash diets on individuals who already suffer from heart disease. For that reason, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.

It’s essential to consider that while these diets may produce fast results, they may not be the best or healthiest long-term solution for weight loss. It’s important to incorporate a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, and regular physical exercise. These lifestyle changes could even help reverse some heart health issues and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Published February 1, 2024