On hectic workdays, many employees cope with heavy workloads and tight deadlines by skipping meals. However, this habit, particularly omitting breakfast or lunch, can negatively impact heart health. Delaying meals may result in increased hunger later in the day, leading to overeating unhealthy, high-calorie foods. Irregular eating patterns can contribute to weight gain, elevated cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that individuals who skip breakfast face an 87% higher risk of cardiovascular-related death compared to those who eat breakfast regularly. Dr. Amit Kumar Gupta, Senior Medical Director at HCL Healthcare, notes that skipping meals can disrupt blood sugar levels, potentially leading to insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders. To promote heart health, it is essential to maintain consistent, nutrient-rich meals that provide sustained energy. Consuming regular, balanced meals and incorporating healthy snacks can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce stress on the cardiovascular system, ultimately lowering the risk of heart disease.A risk factor for heart disease is the body's response to prolonged fasting, which includes increased secretion of cortisol, a stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to higher blood pressure and hypertension, adding strain to the cardiovascular system. According to Dr. Sarita Gulati, a Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi, skipping meals often leads to poor dietary choices later in the day. This may result in consuming high-calorie, high-fat foods, causing spikes in blood glucose and triglyceride levels. These sudden increases can promote the development of atherosclerosis, where plaque accumulates in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Regularly missing meals can also contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdomen, which is closely linked to heart disease and metabolic syndrome.
Another crucial factor is the disruption of the body's circadian rhythm due to irregular eating habits. This disruption can affect cholesterol metabolism, increasing levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and decreasing levels of HDL (good cholesterol), heightening the risk of coronary artery disease. Furthermore, workplace stress combined with poor eating habits can weaken the body's ability to manage inflammation, another factor that contributes to heart disease.
To promote optimal heart health, it is recommended to maintain a consistent eating schedule and focus on balanced, nutrient-rich meals. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels, supports healthy cholesterol levels, and reduces stress, all essential for decreasing the risk of heart disease in the long term. The timing of your meals plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health.
