Rohan Mirchandani’s death due to cardiac arrest: Expert tips from Sushmita Sen’s cardiologist to stay safe from heart attacks

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder and CEO of Epigamia, a popular Greek yogurt brand in India, passed away on December 21 at the age of 42 due to a cardiac arrest. The shocking news was confirmed in a statement from Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia. “Rohan was not only a visionary leader but also an inspiration to everyone,” read the heartfelt message from the board of directors. This untimely demise has once again highlighted the need for better awareness about heart health.

Last year, actor Sushmita Sen shared her experience of surviving a heart attack despite having a 95% blockage in one of her arteries. Her cardiologist, Dr. Rajiv B Bhagwat from Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, emphasized that her fitness routine played a crucial role in saving her life.

A daily fitness schedule conditions the muscles and tissues in such a manner that they can expand and withstand the stress of less oxygen in the blood, Dr. Bhagwat explained. Regular and moderate exercise helps store energy in muscles, which is crucial during a cardiac crisis. Sushmita’s good blood flow ensured minimal damage to her heart during the episode.

The Role of Exercise in Heart Health

Dr. Bhagwat elaborated on how exercise benefits the heart. Exercise increases the ability of muscles to extract more oxygen from the blood, reducing the workload on the heart. It lowers stress hormones, decreases blood pressure, and boosts levels of HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol . Research supports that regular exercise reduces the risk of sudden heart attacks and helps keep arteries healthy. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, and swimming are highly recommended.

A Harvard Medical School report corroborates this, stating, “Regular exercise helps muscles grow more blood vessels by expanding the network of capillaries. This leads to more oxygen-rich blood and efficient metabolism, enhancing endurance and strength.”

Post-Heart Attack Care and Prevention

For those recovering from a heart attack, Dr. Bhagwat stressed the importance of a cardiac rehabilitation program. “Every plan is customized based on the patient’s history. Recovery and prevention of future episodes depend on adhering to these plans,” he said. He advised monitoring heart rates during exercise and promptly reporting any discomfort to a cardiologist.When asked about resuming exercise post-stenting, Dr. Bhagwat explained that if the heart is minimally damaged, light exercise can begin as early as seven days after the procedure. However, it should be gradual, especially if the patient has high blood pressure or significant damage.”

Dietary Considerations

Apart from exercise, Dr. Bhagwat highlighted the role of diet in maintaining heart health. Traditional oils like groundnut oil are good, provided they are not overheated during cooking. Including colorful vegetables rich in antioxidants and micronutrients is essential. The Indian concept of a balanced thali is an excellent way to represent all food groups, he advised.

He also noted the risks associated with stress, diabetes, smoking, and certain medications, particularly among younger people. “Stress is a silent killer. It stimulates the production of adrenaline and cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and plaque formation in arteries,” he warned. Dr. Bhagwat emphasized the importance of regular medical checkups, especially for those with a family history of heart disease.

The tragic passing of Rohan Mirchandani and the insights shared by Dr. Bhagwat underline the need for a proactive approach to heart health. A combination of regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can significantly lower the risk of cardiac issues.

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