You may have heard people say, “I exercise, so I can’t get a heart attack,” or “I am too young for heart disease.” These statements might sound reassuring, but science tells a different story. Cardiovascular disease doesn’t discriminate – it can affect the fit, the young, and even those with normal cholesterol levels. Believing myths can delay preventive care, mislead decisions, and put lives at risk.
So, on this World Heart Day that falls on 29th September, let’s break down the 7 heart health myths with evidence-based facts so you can separate misconception from reality and take informed steps to protect your heart.
Myth 1: “I Am Young, So I Don’t Need To Worry About Heart Disease.”
Heart disease isn’t just a concern for older adults. Risk factors such as type 2 diabetes have started to show in young adults, making them prone to developing heart problems. [1] Even if you feel healthy, plaque can slowly build up in arteries over time. Therefore, heart diseases can affect people at any age.
Myth 2: “If My Cholesterol Is Normal, I’m Safe From Heart Disease”
Many people with normal LDL cholesterol or total cholesterol levels still develop heart disease. Hidden factors, such as high triglycerides, chronic inflammation, or lipoproteins (a), can increase risks of heart disease. This is why doctors often recommend additional tests beyond a standard lipid profile test, such as a CT scan, cardiac MRI, blood test (hs-CRP), stress test, ECG, or echocardiogram, to get a complete picture of cardiovascular health.
Read more about this: Heart Health Screening: Why You Need More Than a Lipid Profile Test
Myth 3: “I Am Fit, So I Can’t Have Heart Disease”
Regular exercise and physical activity are extremely important, as they lower the risk of heart disease, but they do not make you immune. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is driven by multiple factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, inflammation, genetics, sleep quality, and stress. Even athletes and active individuals have been reported to experience heart attacks, often due to underlying conditions they weren’t aware of. Exercise is protective, but it must be combined with other preventive strategies.
Myth 4: “I Need to Eliminate Salt for a Healthier Heart”
Regular table salt contains sodium, which may cause water retention, raise blood pressure, and silently strain the heart over time. Since most Indian meals and processed foods already carry hidden salt, the daily intake of salt often crosses safe limits without realisation. This doesn’t mean you need to cut out salt altogether. Swapping regular salt with low-sodium salt can reduce sodium intake and help balance blood pressure. And while you’re at it, small shifts like choosing fresh meals over packaged ones or seasoning with herbs and lemon instead of heavy sauces can protect your heart in the long run.
Myth 5: “Heart Disease Runs In My Family, So There Is Nothing I Can Do As Prevention”
Family history can increase your risk, but lifestyle choices make a huge difference in whether or not heart disease occurs. Healthy habits – like regular exercise, proper sleep, stress management, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoke – can lower the risk of heart disease gradually, even in those with a strong family history. [1]
Myth 6: “I Should Avoid Exercise After A Heart Attack”
Gentle aerobic exercise, stretching, and strength training under medical supervision can improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and help enhance overall heart health. Skipping activity out of fear can lead to weight gain, higher stress levels, and deconditioning, all of which negatively impact the heart’s recovery and long-term health.
Myth 7: “Heart Attacks Always Show Obvious Symptoms”
Many heart attacks present with mild or atypical symptoms, often referred to as silent heart attacks. Symptoms can include unusual shortness of breath, mild chest discomfort, or pain in the jaw or upper back. [1] Recognising these subtle signs and getting timely testing is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Heart-Friendly Note
Your heart health depends on multiple factors, beyond your level of fitness and exercise. However, by understanding and questioning heart health myths, you can gain the upper hand in avoiding and taking preventive actions towards better heart health.
Believe in your strength, but never neglect your care.
Take a Pledge for a Better Heart Today!
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored article co-powered by Tata Salt Lite. The information provided in this article, in the form of text, tips, suggestions, and products, comprises general advice for consumers. Tata 1mg does not endorse any brands and is not responsible for their efficacy.
Recommended Reads:
How To Give CPR the Right Way: Step-by-Step Guide to Save a Life
Why Are Indians at a Higher Risk of Heart Disease?
Reference
1. AHA Top 10 Heart Health Myths https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/top-10-myths-about-cardiovascular-disease
FAQs
Q. Can a healthy and fit person get a heart attack?
Yes, even healthy and fit people can experience a heart attack due to genetics, stress, inadequate sleep, poor diet, or other hidden factors.
Q. What lifestyle changes can prevent heart disease?
Maintaining a balanced diet, reducing sodium intake, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, and managing stress can help maintain heart health.
Q. Should young adults be concerned even if they feel healthy?
Absolutely, heart risk factors like high blood pressure or arterial plaque can exist without symptoms, so regular check-ups are essential for prevention.
Q. Do only older people get heart attacks?
No, heart attacks in young people are also pretty common these days, especially if they have high-risk factors like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or family history.
(The article is written by Sneha Jajoo, Intern, Clinical Health & Content, and is reviewed by Dr.Subita Alagh, Assistant Team Lead, Disease Content.)