The traditional Goan lifestyle of 40 years ago likely provided protective factors that mitigated the potential risks associated with high coconut oil consumption, leading to a lower observed rate of heart attacks compared to the present day's more sedentary lifestyle and altered diets. Those ancestors were crossing ages of 90 to 100 plus years without medications. Recent heart attacks are largely attributed to a combination of modifiable lifestyle factors (such as unhealthy diet, sedentary habits, and chronic stress) and underlying medical conditions (like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes). These factors are leading to an alarming increase in heart attacks among younger adults. The most common cause of a heart attack is coronary artery disease (CAD), where a buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries narrows them, restricting blood flow. If a plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form and block the artery, causing a heart attack. A lack of physical activity reduces metabolism, decreases blood flow, and promotes plaque buildup in arteries. Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke damage arteries. But oil is the real enemy of the heart. We should introspect into the lifestyles of ancestors to maintain " saude" ( health).
