Dr. Chibber’s five tips to reduce heart inflammation

Dr. Tamanna Chibber, BHSc (Honours), MD, FRCPC, is a staff Cardiologist at William Osler Health System (Osler), with additional training in advanced echocardiography. Dr. Chibber earned her medical degree from the University of Calgary and completed her Internal Medicine residency at the University of Toronto, followed by Cardiology training at Queen’s University.

February is Heart Health Month! William Osler Health System’s Dr. Tamanna Chibber shares her tips to help maintain a healthy heart and reduce heart inflammation:

Choose anti-inflammatory foods

Highly processed foods can increase inflammation in your body. Choosing anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and healthy fats like olive oil and fish oils, supports heart health and reduces artery damage.

Manage your stress

Suffering from long-term stress releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to inflammation of the heart. Small stress reduction techniques like deep breathing, stretching, journaling and spending time outdoors can help manage stress levels – take time each day to help calm your heart and mind.

Stay active and keep moving

Staying physically active helps lower heart inflammation and maintains healthy blood vessels. Regular movement continuously for 30 minutes per day can make a difference.

Prioritize sleep

Lack of sleep can increase inflammation in the heart and body. Aim for seven to nine hours of consistent sleep each night to give your heart, body and mind time to recover.

Avoid smoking, vaping and other recreational substances

Smoking, exposure to second hand smoke, vaping, recreational drug use and alcohol can increase heart inflammation and cause other health problems. Staying smoke, vape and substance-free is a great way to protect your heart.