February is Heart Health Awareness Month. So why are we talking about this a month early, in January? It’s because this is too important an issue to wait until February.
We sat down with Dr. Joseph Daibes, one of the premier cardiologists of our area, who grew up right here in Wayne. His practice is all about helping to build a healthy community – and Wayne is near and dear to his own heart.
Winter Heart Health
Q: What are some of the leading causes of heart problems during the winter months?
Winter puts a unique strain on the heart for several reasons. When temperatures drop, blood vessels constrict, a response known as vasoconstriction, which raises blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder to pump blood. This is compounded by typical winter activities—like shoveling snow—that require significant physical exertion. Shoveling may not seem like exercise, but it’s often an intense, full-body workout, especially for those who are generally inactive. Also, in the winter, we tend to be more sedentary, less inclined to go out and be active. Respiratory infections like the flu are also more common in winter, and they put extra strain on the cardiovascular system. All of these factors can elevate the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.
Q: The term “widowmaker” is often heard when shoveling heavy snow. How can you protect against heart issues arising from shoveling snow?
“Widowmaker” is an antiquated term, which in my opinion, should not be used anymore. It implies that cardiac disease only affects men, hence “widowmaker”, when in reality both men and women are at risk for these major heart attacks. Shoveling snow can be a big trigger for heart attacks because it combines sudden exertion with cold exposure, both of which increase blood pressure and heart rate. To stay safe, warm up your muscles with gentle movement before heading outside. Dress in warm layers to avoid rapid heat loss and use a small shovel to lift lighter loads—this reduces strain on the heart. Pace yourself, take breaks, and stay hydrated; even in winter, dehydration can stress the cardiovascular system. It’s also smart to avoid heavy meals or smoking before shoveling, as both can make your heart work harder.
Q: What should you do if you feel chest pain while shoveling?
Chest pain, especially if it’s intense, squeezing, or radiates to other areas like the arm or jaw, is a red flag to stop immediately and seek help. Sit down, stay warm, and, if possible, chew an aspirin—this can help slow clot formation if you’re experiencing a heart attack. Calling 911 and going to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible is critical. As we always say in Interventional Cardiology — “Time is Muscle”. The longer you wait, the more heart damage you may have.
Heart Health in Children’s Diets
Q: What are some things parents can do to ensure lifelong heart-healthy eating habits in kids?
Developing heart-healthy habits early in life can have a lasting impact on cardiovascular health. Teaching kids to appreciate a balanced diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—can set the stage for lifelong health. Involving kids in meal planning and preparation can make them more excited about trying new, healthy foods. Avoiding sugary drinks and processed snacks helps prevent obesity and establishes a preference for natural flavors over heavily sweetened foods, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and metabolism. The best habits are learned at home—so keeping your house a healthy home is a great star
Q: What are some heart-healthy snacks or meals that parents can encourage their children to eat?
Heart-healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. For kids, think of snacks like apple slices with almond butter, Greek yogurt with berries, or avocado on whole-grain toast. These options are not only nutritious but also easy for kids to grab on their own. You can also try smoothies packed with greens and fruits, or homemade trail mix with nuts and seeds. These snacks provide fiber, healthy fats, and protein, which are all good for cardiovascular health and can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Q: What are some of the things that you do as a parent (who happens to be a cardiologist) to make sure that your kids eat healthy? How do you balance convenience with good dietary choices?
As a cardiologist and a parent, I know how hard it can be to juggle convenience with healthy eating, especially on busy days. My family’s strategy is to make healthy foods readily available at home, like cut-up veggies, fresh fruit, and whole-grain crackers. Preparing meals or snacks in advance—like slicing veggies or making overnight oats—means we can put together a balanced meal in just a few minutes. Also, try to set a good example by making healthy eating a family activity rather than a chore. Kids are more likely to enjoy heart-healthy food when they see their parents eating and enjoying it, too.
Dr. Daibes knows firsthand about healthy eating. His sisters husband owns the Jackies restaurants in our area – Jackie Smalls in Wayne, Jackie’s Grillette in Upper Montclair and Little Falls, and Jackie and Sons in South Orange.
Dr. Joseph Daibes is the owner of NJ Heart and Vein in Clifton, where he maintains a practice that provides not only comprehensive cardiovascular care, but also varicose vein intervention, and so much more. Find out more about him at njheartandvein.com. His office can be reached at 973-327-5000.