Today (September 29) is World Heart Day. This year's theme is - "Don't miss a beat". Like other countries in the world, the day is being celebrated in Bangladesh to prevent heart disease and increase awareness. However, experts in the country say that the uncontrolled eating habits, diabetes and unhealthy lifestyle of the common people are creating the main risk of heart disease.

In a special interview with NTV Online, Professor Dr. Mohsin Ahmed, Head of the Cardiology Department of Kurmitola General Hospital, said, "Our diet and lifestyle are the main problem. We eat a lot of carbohydrates and fats, but we don't have the habit of exercising or walking. Due to irregular sleep, work pressure and unhealthy lifestyle, cholesterol accumulates in the body and blocks the blood vessels."

He also said that developing the habit of walking regularly burns the excess lipid accumulated in the body, thereby reducing the risk of heart attack. But lack of sleep, stress and irregular routines lead to more frequent heart attacks.

Regarding diabetes, Professor Dr. Mohsin Ahmed said that it has now taken on a 'pandemic' shape. Diabetes is increasing due to eating a lot of rice and sugar, which directly increases the risk of heart disease many times over. Smoking and drug addiction among young people are also associated with this.

He also warned about the fast food culture. This generation dependent on food delivery is eating food full of bad cholesterol, which is further increasing the risk of heart attack by accumulating plaque in the blood vessels.

Recommending changes in dietary habits, he said,

White foods such as rice, sugar, cheese, milk should be reduced.

Fiber-rich foods, vegetables, fruits and red foods should be eaten more.

Beef should be limited and emphasis should be placed on chicken and fish.

Stressing the importance of physical activity, he said that it is important to walk at least 150 minutes a week. The habit of walking at least 30 minutes every day should be developed. If you don't have time, create opportunities for small walks—such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing small office tasks yourself.

According to experts, a conscious diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest are the most effective ways to prevent heart disease.