Topics

 The American Heart Association is advising caution for older adults with coronary heart disease or hypertension because it appears they are more likely than others to be infected by the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 and to develop more severe symptoms. People who have survived a stroke may also face a higher risk of complications. 

The Association recognizes the urgency and increased risk of contracting COVID-19 for the approximately 120 million people in the U.S. who have cardiovascular disease. Data from China, published last month, indicates cardiovascular disease and hypertension were associated with an increased COVID-19 case fatality rate: 10.5% and 6.0%, respectively. Among patients who died from COVID-19, substantial cardiac damage was observed. In addition, older adults with heart disease or hypertension were more likely to be infected and to develop more severe symptoms and complications from COVID-19. 

The overall risk of getting this virus is still low in the United States, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk will increase as the outbreak expands. As a result, people who have heart disease or another underlying condition should stay home to limit their risk of contracting the virus. 

For heart patients, prevention is key. Their risk is not higher for getting the coronavirus as a patient, but if they do get it they have a higher chance of complications. Others facing this higher risk include people 60 and over, pregnant women, young children, people with serious chronic lung and kidney conditions and people with compromised immune systems. As mentioned, stroke survivors may also have a higher risk of complications. 

“Prevention is key in limiting the spread of coronavirus, and with more people working remotely or limiting their exposure to crowds, it’s important to maintain healthy habits at home, “says Eduardo Sanchez, M.D., M.P.H., FAAFP, American Heart Association’s chief medical officer for prevention.

Working from home can have added temptations….so how can you stay productive and not spend the entire day eating unhealthy snacks?   Below are some suggestions along with a list of healthy snacks including some recipes to help.

Not sure what to make with what you have? Try supercook.com. Just pop in a list of the ingredients you have on hand and the website will suggest recipes.

Stick to a regular eating schedule

Though the current climate is a bit hectic, stick to your normal schedule as best as you can. Try to eat at the same time that you would if you were at the office.  Set an alert on your phone to break for a proper lunch every day.

Make snacks ahead of time

Try to mitigate excessive snacking by planning ahead. Put some healthy snack options in clear containers, on eye-level shelves in your fridge and pantry.

Change up your environment

If you notice that you are prone to stress eating, change locations. Moving your workstation can help you better manage the urge to eat. Or just take a break from work and whatever is making you feel overwhelmed. If possible, go outside for some fresh air.

Listen to your body

Is your urge to eat from hunger or just from boredom or stress?  For example, if you notice having a poor sleep cycle has increased your snacking, then avoid stressful news programs before bed.

Be kind to yourself

Stress eating isn’t a sign of failure.  As best as you can, stick to a healthy eating schedule and try to set alarms to go for walks or breathe deeply to reduce stress.

Sample healthy snacks:

Mixed nuts

Nuts are an ideal nutritious snack. They’re linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and may help prevent certain cancers, depression, and other illnesses.