Investigating why heart disease generally develops later in women than men, researchers have found that the interplay between female ovarian hormones and a circadian “clock” molecule protects the heart health of women as they age.

The findings, published in the journal Cardiovascular Research, could lead to new treatment to help prevent heart disease as we grow older. “This is the first study to demonstrate a link among female ovarian hormones, the circadian system which regulates the body’s day-night cycle, and the observation that women enjoy significant protection against heart disease when compared to men,” said Tami Martino, professor at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada.

Cases of heart diseases are sharply rising all across including in India. Recently, a team of cardiologists suggested that the average age for people to suffer from heart failure in India is a decade earlier as compared to elsewhere in the world. Although some of the common factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases remain the same – sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, lack of exercising, obesity and family history of heart diseases among others – it is noted that the disease strikes people differently on the basis of sex.

Female hormones and the circadian clock molecule are seen as a couple of factors that may protect women from heart ailments as they age.

Some of the previously conducted studies revealed that cardiovascular ailments, especially heart failure and heart attacks – are more common and sever in men as compared to women.

Later, experts discovered a difference between female heart cells and male heart cells. The advantage that females enjoy with respect to their heart health was attributed to hormones such as estrogen that are known to protect the heart even when the circadian mechanism is disturbed.

Another study published in the journal Radiology revealed that male and female hearts age differently. “Our results are a striking demonstration of the concept that heart disease may have different pathophysiology in men and women and of the need for tailored treatments that address such important biologic differences,” said senior study author Joao Lima, professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the US.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of primary ways to protect the heart from a range of ailments. Smoking cessation, controlled alcohol consumption, proper sleep, regular exercising and a balanced diet can help ensure a healthier, stronger heart. Some of the easiest dietary tweaks that can ensure a healthy heart would include cutting down on sugar and salt from your regular diet. Trans-fat is another item which can cause long-term damage to your heart if consumed excessively. Regular red meat consumption has also been tied to triggering heart ailments.

Essential fatty acids – polyunsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids – are good for heart health. Load up on items rich in Omega 3 and 6 along along with whole grains, cereals, fresh fruits and veggies, legumes, beans, nuts and seeds.

Get in touch with your medical expert to learn more about heart health and how your diet and lifestyle can be turned into a heart-friendly, heart-protective one.