Divorce often leads to “broken hearts,” but does it also lead to medical and cardiac problems? Scientists now believe that this phrase can be interpreted both literally and figuratively. A new study found that divorce can have a notable impact on cardiovascular health – an unsurprising conclusion according to Virginia family law attorneys.
Cardiovascular Risks Linked to Divorce
Researchers examined 739 married men and 459 married women, all middle-aged or older. They looked at participants’ heart rates, blood pressure, past cardiac events, and other factors determining cardiovascular risk. The findings suggested that divorce—and changes in marital quality—can lead to significant negative cardiovascular effects, particularly for women. These consequences were more likely to affect older participants than younger ones, which may be unsurprising given that younger people generally have a lower risk of cardiovascular events.
The Link Between Stress and Heart Health
These findings align with other data on the effects of stress on health, particularly heart health. Divorce is one of the most stressful life events a person can experience, and those going through it may be familiar with symptoms like sleeplessness, irritability, nightmares, back pain, nausea, and headaches. These physical stresses can make the process even harder.
Stress triggers your body’s “fight or flight” response, elevating your heart rate and breathing. If your body is constantly on high alert, chronic stress can put a strain on your heart and overall health.
7 Tips for Staying Heart Healthy During a Divorce
Given these challenges, how can you maintain heart health during a divorce? Here are some practical tips:
- Consult Your Doctor: Develop a health plan for addressing any issues and preventing further problems.
- Talk to a Friend: Reach out when you feel overwhelmed—it can help relieve emotional stress.
- Take Time for Yourself: Make sure to schedule breaks from dealing with the divorce.
- Engage in Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like walking can be calming and improve your physical well-being.
- Eat Healthy Snacks: If you can’t prepare full meals, opt for nutritious snacks like healthy fats, proteins, vegetables, and low-sugar fruits. Examples include apples, peanut butter, carrot sticks, and heart-healthy traditional foods like bone broth and free-range meats.
- Consider a Lipid Profile: Ask your doctor for a complete lipid profile, such as an NMR Lipoprofile, to monitor heart health. High HDL/triglyceride ratios are generally linked to better cardiovascular health.
- Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care and recognize the importance of maintaining both mental and physical health during this challenging time.
Need Legal Assistance?
If you need help with your divorce case, contact our experienced Fairfax divorce attorneys today at (888) 530-4374 to schedule a consultation. We offer compassionate, strategic support to help you navigate the process and regain peace of mind.
