Heart Health Month UK: Importance of Cardiovascular Health Post-Surgery

February is Heart Health Month in the UK, dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease and the importance of maintaining good heart health. For those who have undergone bariatric surgery or are using weight-loss injections, looking after cardiovascular health is essential for long-term wellbeing.

Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Significant weight loss, whether through surgery or medical interventions, can greatly reduce these risks. However, weight loss alone is not enough, long-term cardiovascular health requires ongoing healthy habits and lifestyle choices.

In recognition of Heart Health Month UK we explore why heart health is important:

Why Cardiovascular Health Matters

How Weight Loss Benefits the Heart

Losing weight can lead to:

• Lower blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and blood vessels
• Improved cholesterol levels, lowering LDL (the “bad” kind) cholesterol and raising HDL (the “good” kind) cholesterol
• Better blood sugar control, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes
• Less strain on the heart, as even a five to ten percent weight loss can improve heart function

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Heart After Surgery

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Diet plays a key role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Nutrient-dense, high-protein, and healthy fats should be prioritised e.g.

• Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and eggs
• Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil
• High-fibre foods such as oats, beans, lentils, and vegetables
• Omega-3 rich foods including salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseeds
• Low-sodium choices, opting for fresh, unprocessed foods to avoid excess salt

Foods to Limit and habits to adopt:

• Processed meats such as bacon and sausages
• Sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates
• Fried foods
• High-salt foods, including crisps and ready meals
• Reading food labels and choosing products with less than 1.5 grams of salt per 100 grams can help keep sodium intake in check.

Get Moving – Exercise for a strong heart

Physical activity is essential for keeping the heart strong and maintaining long-term weight loss. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Best Exercises for Heart Health Post-Surgery:

• Walking, starting with short, gentle walks and gradually increasing duration/speed
• Swimming, which is low-impact and joint-friendly
• Cycling, which is also lower impact
• Strength training, which preserves muscle mass and supports metabolism

Finding an activity that is enjoyable can help ensure consistency. Even daily movement, such as taking the stairs or stretching, benefits heart health.

Stay Hydrated

• Drinking enough water is vital for cardiovascular health. Dehydration can lead to low blood pressure, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats.
• Aim for 2 litres of water per day, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional. Sugary or fizzy drinks should be avoided, as they can provide empty or hidden sugar and calories, potentially affecting your long-term weight loss goals.

Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Support is available for those who need help quitting:

• https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking/nhs-stop-smoking-services-help-you-quit/

Alcohol should also be limited after surgery, as it is high in empty calories, can cause dehydration, and may affect blood sugar levels. If consuming alcohol, lower-calorie options should be chosen, and healthcare guidance should always be followed.

How Weight Loss Interventions Improves Heart Health

Many people who undergo bariatric surgery or take weight-loss medications experience significant improvements in their heart health, including:

• Lower blood pressure, with some patients reducing or stopping medication
• Diabetes remission, with improved blood sugar levels
• Increased energy and mobility, making exercise easier and strengthening the heart

Heart Health Month UK is an opportunity to focus on long-term cardiovascular wellness after weight loss. Weight loss alone is not enough but maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise and medical check-ups is key to keeping the heart strong.