How to take care of your heart's health during the holidays

AUSTIN (KXAN) — As millions of Texans tuck into their Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, local cardiologists are giving tips and tricks on how to take care of your heart while still indulging this holiday season.

Dr. Aaron Grober said heart problems are primarily the cumulative impact of years' worth of eating or lifestyle choices but added people can still be mindful of their eating and drinking levels during festivities. He said it's all about balance: When eating on Thanksgiving, he said people can prioritize extra helpings of turkey or vegetables instead of going back for seconds on dishes like mashed potatoes or ham.

When it comes to drinking alcohol, Grober said most people are perfectly fine to have a drink or two during the holidays. However, surpassing that two-drink limit can potentially lead to abnormal heart rhythms or related concerns.

In line with doing everything in moderation, Grober suggested people try to find ways to stay active during the holiday stretch. A jog before your feast or a post-dinner walk are good ways to get in some moderate activity — and protect your heart's health.

And protecting one's heart health is critical during the holiday season, when Grober said there's a significant increase in heart attacks and strokes during the timeframe. Some warning signs to watch for include chest discomfort spreading toward a person's shoulders and back, as well as shortness of breath.

Grober reminded viewers hospitals are always open, and anyone concerned about symptoms they're experiencing should head to the emergency room to get checked out.