Dr. Gyan Chaturvedi (left) | FP Photo
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Padma Shri awardee and renowned cardiologist Dr. Gyan Chaturvedi has advised people to gradually reduce their diet by 40% to control weight and prevent heart problems. Dr. Chaturvedi, who has received several prestigious awards, including the Sharad Joshi Samman from the Government of Madhya Pradesh, the Delhi Academy Award, and the Indu Sharma Literary Award for his literary work, spoke with Free Press about the growing concern of heart-related issues, particularly among the younger generation.Excerpts from the interview:
Young generation, especially those above 25, are experiencing cardiac arrest in places like badminton courts, wedding processions, cricket fields and even dance floors. What is the reason behind this? The lifestyle of the younger generation has drastically changed. It is now a range from “no exercise” to “over exercise.” One section of youth avoids any physical activity, often due to long sitting hours at MNCs, leading to a sedentary lifestyle. The other extreme is the “Gym Generation,” which engages in excessive, uncontrolled exercise and consumes processed proteins in an attempt to achieve six packs (“Dole-Sole” culture). Both these extremes are detrimental to a healthy lifestyle.
What are the medical reasons behind heart attacks at a young age?
One key reason is the prolonged QT interval, an irregular heart rhythm when the heart takes longer than normal to recharge between beats. This is a feature of Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), a rare condition affecting the heart’s electrical system. Symptoms include fainting, heart palpitations, seizures, cardiac arrest, and noisy gasping while sleeping. Another factor is an “adrenaline rush,” where excessive adrenaline is released during fight-or-flight situations. This can damage the heart and cause nervous symptoms like faster heart rates and breathing. Dangerous sports, panic attacks, traffic accidents, and frightening experiences are contributing factors.
The young generation faces a lot of mental tension, from career concerns to relationship issues. How does this stress affect their heart health?
The pressure starts early. Parents send children for IIT coaching, causing tension from the primary school level. This is compounded when they join MNCs, where the night-working culture disrupts their routines. Add to this, relationship tensions and frequent breakups lead to more stress. To cope, many young people turn to alcohol and smoking, eventually developing addictive behaviours, which further strain heart health.
How does the night work culture in MNCs affect young people?
It’s crucial to follow “sleep hygiene” for overall well-being. Sleep hygiene refers to habits and practices that help people sleep better, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding stimulants before bed, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. These practices are especially important for those suffering from insomnia, depression, and other conditions that can lead to heart problems.
How can people regulate their lifestyle?
Do you have any suggestions? One key recommendation is gradually reducing your diet by 40% to control weight and prevent issues like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol. Stay away from fast food, the culture of “Reels” on social media, and drugs or rave parties. Weight loss should be a slow process, taking one or two years, not something rushed in a month. Make healthy lifestyle changes a habit for long-term benefits.
