Most people associate heart health with exercise, cholesterol levels, and smoking. Few think about temperature. But the human body constantly works to maintain a stable internal temperature, and during summer this process becomes more demanding.
The heart pumps more blood toward the skin to help release heat. At the same time, sweating causes the loss of fluids and essential minerals. When these losses are not replaced properly, blood volume can fall, forcing the heart to work harder.
We spoke to Dr S.K. Agarwal, Sr. Consultant Cardiologist, Kailash Hospital, Noida, who explained, “People are often surprised to learn that summer heat can quietly challenge heart health. When temperatures rise, our bodies lose more water and salts through sweat, appetites shift, and convenience becomes tempting, usually in the form of high-sodium, processed foods. Dehydration, excess salt and altered eating patterns increase the heart’s workload, so taking simple, practical precautions during the warmer months is important.”
The good news is that many of these challenges can be managed with thoughtful food choices.