Don't risk your heart during Kurban Bayram: Expert warns of 'indigestion' and 'meat consumption' dangers

As Kurban Bayram approaches, health experts are issuing urgent warnings about the potential risks associated with sudden changes in dietary habits, particularly the surge in red meat consumption.

Dr. Naile Eriş Güdül from Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University Hospital's Cardiology Department highlighted the dangers for heart patients and individuals in at-risk groups. She emphasized that the holiday should not be an excuse for overindulgence. "Actually, Kurban Bayram is no different from other days," Güdül stated. "We need to continue our normal routines for meat consumption, salt intake, diet, exercise, and medication schedules just as we do on regular days."

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Actually, Kurban Bayram is no different from other days. We need to continue our normal routines for meat consumption, salt intake, diet, exercise, and medication schedules just as we do on regular days.

She cautioned that consuming excessive amounts of meat or salt can place an undue burden on the heart, potentially leading to cardiac emergencies. "Every extra portion of meat or extra salt can cause excessive strain on the heart, leading patients to seek emergency care for cardiac problems," she explained.

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Every extra portion of meat or extra salt can cause excessive strain on the heart, leading patients to seek emergency care for cardiac problems.

Dr. Güdül also pointed out that the indigestion, bloating, and gas commonly experienced after holiday feasts can sometimes mask more serious conditions. She urged people to be vigilant for critical symptoms that require immediate medical attention. "If a patient experiences a feeling of heaviness in the chest like a weight sitting on it, a feeling of being squeezed in a vise, difficulty breathing, or pain radiating to the left arm or jaw, accompanied by persistent shortness of breath and palpitations, they should go to the nearest health facility without delay," she advised. It is crucial to distinguish between simple indigestion and potentially life-threatening cardiac events.

Experts recommend avoiding salty, fatty, and heavy foods often served during holiday visits. They also advise letting meat rest before consumption, eating it with vegetables, and maintaining regular physical activity throughout the holiday period.

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If a patient experiences a feeling of heaviness in the chest like a weight sitting on it, a feeling of being squeezed in a vise, difficulty breathing, or pain radiating to the left arm or jaw, accompanied by persistent shortness of breath and palpitations, they should go to the nearest health facility without delay.