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Top cardiologist reveals 6 surprising signs you are healthier than you realize

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 0:30 GMT by moneycontrol.com
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Six Surprising Signs You’re Healthier Than You Think – Insights from a Top Cardiologist

When we think about heart health, the first images that come to mind are usually the obvious red flags: high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Yet, according to Dr. Arjun Gupta, one of India’s leading cardiologists, many people unknowingly enjoy a range of subtle indicators that signal a robust cardiovascular system. In a recent interview on MoneyControl, Dr. Gupta laid out six surprising signs that reveal you’re healthier than you might realize. These insights, drawn from the latest clinical research and everyday observations, can help anyone reassess their cardiovascular well‑being in a more holistic light.

1. Consistently Low Resting Heart Rate (RHR) Without Overtraining

A resting heart rate between 60 and 70 beats per minute (bpm) is often cited as a benchmark for cardiovascular fitness. However, Dr. Gupta emphasized that a heart rate consistently below 60 bpm—yet not so low as to indicate bradycardia or the need for intervention—can be a positive sign of an efficient heart. This range usually reflects a well‑conditioned cardiovascular system that pumps blood effectively, requiring fewer beats to maintain adequate circulation.

Key takeaways:

• No “fatigue” or dizziness: A low RHR should not cause symptoms; if you feel faint, it may be a sign to consult a physician.
• Regular monitoring: Use a smartwatch or chest strap monitor to track your RHR over time.
• Lifestyle confirmation: The combination of regular aerobic activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep supports a healthy RHR.

2. Blood Pressure in the “Optimal” Range

While a systolic/diastolic reading below 120/80 mmHg is typically considered normal, Dr. Gupta pointed out that many people believe any number within this range is fine, overlooking how the body’s response can vary. A pressure that stays between 110–119/70–79 mmHg for the majority of the day—without frequent spikes—signals that the vascular system operates with minimal stress.

Supporting evidence:

• Lower arterial stiffness: Measurements such as pulse wave velocity (PWV) or augmentation index (AIx) often correlate with optimal blood pressure ranges.
• Medication avoidance: People with this pressure profile rarely need antihypertensive medication and may maintain this stability through lifestyle alone.

3. Healthy Cholesterol Profile: Low LDL, High HDL, and Normal Triglycerides

A comprehensive lipid panel is a classic cardiovascular assessment tool. Dr. Gupta highlighted the following values as indicators of heart health:

• LDL cholesterol < 100 mg/dL (or < 70 mg/dL for those at higher risk).
• HDL cholesterol > 60 mg/dL: Higher levels offer stronger protective effects against plaque formation.
• Triglycerides < 150 mg/dL: High triglycerides often accompany metabolic syndrome.

These numbers not only reflect dietary choices but also the body's efficient lipid processing mechanisms. A lipid profile that consistently falls within these ranges suggests that the liver and peripheral tissues effectively manage cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism.

4. Normal Endothelial Function and Minimal Arterial Inflammation

Endothelial dysfunction—a condition where the inner lining of blood vessels doesn’t dilate properly—precedes many cardiovascular events. Though routine tests for endothelial function aren’t common in all clinical settings, Dr. Gupta notes that people who experience:

• Smooth, unobstructed blood flow (no peripheral vascular disease),
• Frequent physical activity without disproportionate fatigue, and
• Minimal inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)

are likely to have a healthy endothelium. In practice, individuals who can walk briskly for 30 minutes without chest discomfort and whose routine CRP levels remain under 3 mg/L are considered at low risk.

5. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Above Average

HRV, the variation in time between successive heartbeats, reflects autonomic nervous system balance. A higher HRV usually indicates resilience to stress, better cardiovascular adaptability, and overall healthier heart rhythm. For most adults, an HRV of 40–60 milliseconds (ms) or higher is considered beneficial.

Dr. Gupta advises:

• Regular HRV tracking: Use validated HRV apps or wearable devices to monitor trends.
• Stress management: Techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or yoga can improve HRV over time.

6. Consistent, Restorative Sleep and Absence of Nighttime Symptoms

Sleep plays a pivotal role in cardiovascular health. Dr. Gupta underscores that individuals who:

• Sleep 7–9 hours per night,
• Wake up refreshed,
• Show no snoring, apnea episodes, or frequent nighttime awakenings,

are less likely to develop hypertension, arrhythmias, or metabolic issues. Moreover, a lack of nocturnal chest pain or palpitations signals that the heart is operating stably during the body's most restorative period.

Putting It All Together

While each of these indicators can be evaluated independently, Dr. Gupta recommends a holistic approach. By combining lifestyle habits—regular aerobic and strength training, balanced nutrition rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega‑3 fatty acids, adequate hydration, and consistent sleep schedules—with routine medical checkups, individuals can confidently gauge their heart health.

If you find that many of the above signs align with your personal metrics, congratulations: your heart is likely in better shape than you may have assumed. Conversely, if you notice gaps—such as high LDL, low HRV, or elevated blood pressure—it’s a clear call to reassess and adjust lifestyle choices or seek professional guidance.

References & Further Reading

• Heart Health and Lifestyle: A Comprehensive Guide – Medscape
• Blood Pressure: Understanding and Managing Your Numbers – American Heart Association
• The Role of Endothelial Function in Cardiovascular Disease – Journal of the American College of Cardiology
• Heart Rate Variability and Its Clinical Applications – Mayo Clinic Proceedings