February is a month dedicated to both love and heart health, making it the perfect time to reflect on how our emotions and lifestyle choices impact our well-being.
To shed light on these connections, Dr. Walid Amil, a cardiologist and vice president of the Philippine Heart Association, and Dr. Louella Santos, an internal medicine specialist with a passion for preventive care, shared with Simpol.ph valuable insights on maintaining a healthy heart, the effects of love and stress, and practical tips for leading a healthier life.
Love has long been associated with matters of the heart, and according to Amil, this connection is more than just symbolic. “A healthy and happy relationship can reduce stress hormones like cortisol and increase feel-good hormones, which help lower blood pressure and improve mental health,” he explained. A strong support system, such as a loving partner, can significantly enhance cardiovascular well-being by lowering stress levels and promoting emotional stability.
Santos echoed this sentiment, stressing the role of emotional health in overall wellness. “Mental and emotional well-being are deeply intertwined with physical health. Chronic stress and emotional distress can contribute to conditions like hypertension and heart disease,” she noted.
Both doctors agreed that simple acts of love — whether through meaningful conversations, acts of service, or physical affection — can have a positive impact on heart health.
Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without chocolate, but is it good for the heart? Amil advised moderation. “Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that have been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clots. However, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive sugar and calorie intake,” he said.
Santos highlighted that not all chocolates are created equal. “Milk chocolate and sugary variants have added fats and sugars that can negate the benefits. Choosing dark chocolate with high cocoa content is the best option for heart health,” she added.
While love has positive effects on heart health, emotional distress can have the opposite impact. Amil warned that stress from heartbreak or other emotional struggles can elevate cortisol and adrenaline levels, increasing the risk of heart problems. “In extreme cases, it can even cause Broken Heart Syndrome, a temporary heart condition triggered by intense emotional stress,” he explained.
To cope with stress, Santos advised a proactive approach: “Engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation, exercise, and socializing with loved ones. Seeking professional help when needed is also essential.” Amil also recommended maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding vices, and finding a support system to help navigate emotional pain.
Couples can support each other’s heart health by adopting positive habits together. “Taking morning walks, biking, eating heart-healthy meals, and engaging in enjoyable physical activities like dancing or sports can strengthen both the heart and the relationship,” suggested Amil.
For those looking for a fun fitness goal this Valentine’s, Amil recommended activities like fun runs, Zumba, ballroom dancing, hiking, and yoga. “These activities not only improve cardiovascular health but also create shared experiences that strengthen emotional bonds,” he said.
Santos reinforced the importance of small daily habits. “Cooking healthy meals together, prioritizing sleep, and practicing gratitude are simple yet impactful ways to care for both your heart and your relationship,” she added.
Culture plays a role in how Filipinos approach heart health. Amil pointed out that while some traditional beliefs, like avoiding baths when tired (pasma), may delay proper care, Filipino values like bayanihan and social engagement promote well-being. “Traditional dances and community activities encourage physical movement, which is great for heart health,” he said.
Santos noted that Filipino hospitality often leads to overindulgence in rich foods, which can contribute to lifestyle diseases. “It’s important to balance cultural traditions with healthy choices,” she advised.
Both doctors stressed the importance of preventive care. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the Philippines and worldwide. Prevention is key — regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle can make a big difference,” said Amil.
Santos added that routine medical screenings can catch potential issues early. “Many diseases are preventable or manageable if detected in time. Prioritize your health before symptoms arise,” she advised.
When it comes to daily habits, small acts of love go a long way. “Simple gestures like expressing gratitude, sending sweet messages, or making coffee for a loved one can reduce stress and contribute to overall well-being,” said Amil.
As part of his advocacy for Heart Month, Amil is working on expanding cardiology facilities and establishing a national network to improve heart care services. “This year’s theme is Creating and Linking Cardiology Landscapes. We aim to expand heart failure clinics and establish more cath labs — facilities for angiograms and angioplasty to treat heart attacks. With PhilHealth now covering these procedures, we want to make life-saving treatments more accessible nationwide,” he shared.
Santos also champions preventive care and community health education. “Empowering people with knowledge about healthy living can lead to better health outcomes. Prevention is always better than cure,” she underscored.
Both doctors agreed that heart health should be a lifelong priority. “Your heart health starts with the small decisions you make every day. Take care of your heart, and it will take care of you,” said Amil.
Santos remarked, “Take charge of your health. It’s one of your most valuable assets. A healthy heart leads to a longer, more fulfilling life.”
