A comprehensive health advisory released by the Punjab Government in response to the rising incidences of sudden cardiac deaths among young individuals, recommended dietary and fitness discipline to prevent premature heart attacks.
The advisory urged youngsters to avoid energy drinks, anabolic steroids, testosterone supplements, and stimulants like excessive caffeine, ephedrine, and amphetamines, which can cause hormonal imbalances and lead to serious health issues such as kidney, liver, and heart diseases.
It advised dietary practices like limiting egg consumption to a maximum of four per day, Vitamin D intake to within 60,000 IU per month and Vitamin A supplement to not more than 3-5 grams a day.
It recommended natural foods over processed ones and set protein intake limits to 0.83g/kg of body weight for healthy individuals and up to 1.6g/kg for athletes and cautioned people against the use of protein powders which may contain heavy metals like lead and arsenic, posing risks to kidney health.
The importance of medical screening before starting any gym routine is emphasised. Those with symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, or a family history of heart disease should consult a doctor before engaging in physical activity, it said.
Even individuals with no known health issues are advised to start slowly and gradually increase workout intensity. Sudden, unaccustomed, or high-intensity workouts should be avoided. Baseline tests such as ECG, blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid profile are recommended, along with regular follow-ups with a physician.
The advisory developed by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), and Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Gadvasu) was released by Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh. The Minister also launched a state-wide initiative to train gym users, trainers, and young athletes in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic Life Support (BLS).
