We often think of heart failure as something that happens only to people with poor diets or no exercise routine. But according to Dr Sanjeeva Kumar Gupta, Consultant at the Department of Cardiology, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, there’s a lot more that affects heart health—and most of us don’t even realise it.
“These often-overlooked factors play a critical role in heart health, and it’s time we talk about them more openly,” she says. Let’s break them down one by one in simple terms.
1. Not getting enough sleep is risky
If you often stay up late or don’t get enough rest, you could be putting your heart in danger.
Dr Gupta explains: “Chronic sleep deprivation isn’t a badge of honour; it significantly increases the risk of heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac events.” Getting quality sleep every night is more important than most people think—your heart depends on it.
2. Pollution doesn’t just hurt your lungs
We know that dirty air makes it harder to breathe. But it also harms your heart.
“Daily exposure to air pollution, especially from traffic, accelerates arterial hardening, raising the risk of atherosclerosis,” says Dr Gupta.
If you live in a city or near busy roads, try to avoid peak pollution hours and use air filters at home when possible.
We know that dirty air makes it harder to breathe. But it also harms your heart. (file)
3. Stress affects your heart more than you think
Many of us just keep going, even when we’re stressed to the limit. But that takes a toll.
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“Constant stress and the ‘push through’ mentality keep cortisol levels high, leading to chronic inflammation and hypertension,” she shares. Finding ways to relax—like walking, journaling, or talking to someone—can actually protect your heart in the long run.
4. Healthy gums = Healthy heart
Surprising but true: skipping your dental visits can hurt your heart.
“Oral health is another silent contributor; untreated gum disease increases systemic inflammation, which can trigger heart attacks,” says Dr Gupta. So yes, brushing and flossing do more than just keep your teeth clean—they also help your heart.
5. Eating healthy isn’t always easy for everyone
Not everyone has access to fresh food, and that’s a big issue.
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“Living in a food desert where healthy options are scarce affects heart outcomes, regardless of personal motivation,” explains Dr Gupta.
This highlights how important good city planning and community access to healthy food are for public health.
6. Your gut has a say in heart health
Your stomach and your heart are more connected than they seem.
“Even gut health, often dismissed, influences cardiovascular function through its effect on cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation,” says Dr Gupta. Eating more fibre, fermented foods, and limiting processed junk isn’t just good for digestion—it helps your heart too.
What’s the takeaway? Heart health is more than cutting down on fried food or going for walks. “These are not isolated issues; they are deeply interconnected and disproportionately impact vulnerable populations,” says Dr Gupta.
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“Addressing them requires both individual awareness and systemic change, from better urban planning and access to nutritious food to prioritising sleep, mental health, and preventive dental care. Our hearts depend on far more than just diet and exercise; it’s the full ecosystem of our daily lives that matters.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
