COVID-19: A literal “heartbreaker”

Many people like to put COVID-19 in the rearview mirror.

Perhaps you feel the same.

But the reality is, we must respect the dangers this virus still poses to our health.

And that’s especially true when it comes to heart health.

Let me explain…

Your heart is at risk

According to a new study published in the journal Circulation, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, might be a literal “heartbreaker.”

In fact, it’s well-established that COVID-19 can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and long COVID.

But did you know that over 50 percent of those infected with COVID-19 experience inflammation or damage to their heart?

That’s why, for the new study, researchers explored if this damage occurs as a result of the virus itself infecting the heart—or because of the systemic inflammation triggered by the virus.

They focused on a type of immune cell called cardiac macrophages. When operating normally, these cells play a critical role in keeping the heart tissue healthy. They sustain the metabolism of the heart and clear out harmful bacteria or toxins that weaken the heart (and your health).

But these cells can turn inflammatory in response to injury, like a heart attack or heart failure.

For the study, researchers analyzed the cells in both humans and mice. Ultimately, they found that SARS-CoV-2 increased the total number of cardiac macrophages and caused them to become inflammatory.

Researchers also found that after a COVID-19 infection, the immune system might damage other organs by triggering systemic inflammation. All in addition to the damage the virus itself inflicted on your lungs!

Operate at a surplus

The bottom line? While many might try to forget about COVID-19, the threat is very real—and can be quite dangerous to your health.

Of course, it’s not too surprising that all of the potential damage links back to inflammation. After all, that’s the root cause of most diseases!

So, how can you keep inflammation at bay? Through smart lifestyle interventions:

• Adopt a healthy, balanced diet full of whole foods. Move away from high-carb, sugary, processed foods, which drive inflammation.
• Get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.
• Move your body and exercise
• Pay attention to your gastrointestinal health and ensure healthy bowel movements.
• Stop smoking and overindulging in alcohol.

While these tips might sound repetitive, they really are the cornerstone of good health. And by following them, your body won’t be operating at a deficit when invaders such as COVID-19 come along.

To learn more about the toll inflammation plays in your body, check out my Essential Guide to Combating Inflammation. Click here to learn more about this innovative, online learning tool.

Source:

“Severe lung infection during COVID-19 can cause damage to the heart.” ScienceDaily, 03/20/24. (sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/03/240320160603.htm)