The heart-handshake connection: Your grip might reveal more than you think

A handshake is a simple gesture, often associated with first impressions and professional etiquette. But did you know that it may provide valuable insights into your cardiovascular well-being? 

According to nutritionist and content creator Deepsikha Jain, “When the grip of a handshake is strong it means that the heart can pump blood in higher volumes and proportions which talks about how good the heart health is.” She adds that a weak grip indicates poor heart health.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Deepsikha Jain (@fries.to.fit)

So, is this true?

Dr Jagadish J Hiremath, cardiac intensivist, says, “While grip strength isn’t a replacement for traditional assessments like blood pressure and cholesterol checks, it offers a quick, non-invasive, and inexpensive way to gauge overall health. Researchers have found that grip strength can be as predictive of cardiovascular health as some established risk factors.”

Physiological mechanisms linking grip strength to heart health

So, what’s the link between the muscles in your hand and your heart? Dr Hiremath explains them as follows:

Muscle Strength and Cardiovascular Fitness: Grip strength is a reflection of overall muscle strength and function. Studies suggest that people with stronger grips tend to have better cardiovascular fitness, including improved heart function and lower blood pressure. This could be because strong muscles require a robust cardiovascular system to deliver oxygen and nutrients efficiently.

Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Weaker grip strength has been associated with higher levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are major contributors to heart disease.

Endothelial Function: The endothelium, the lining of your blood vessels, plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. Grip strength has been linked to better endothelial function, suggesting that a strong grip might indicate healthy blood vessels.

The muscles involved in a firm handshake primarily include the forearm muscles, Dr Hiremath informs, particularly the flexor muscles that control finger and wrist bending. “Additionally, the nervous system plays a role in coordinating these muscle contractions. So, a strong grip reflects not just muscle strength but also good neuromuscular function.”

Grip strength is a reflection of overall muscle strength and function. (Source: Freepik)

How to improve grip strength

The good news is that grip strength is something you can actively improve, and doing so could have a positive impact on your heart health. Here are some tips given by Dr Hiremath:

Specific Exercises: Incorporate exercises that directly target your grip strength, like hand grippers, deadlifts, pull-ups, and farmer’s walks.

Overall Strength Training: Regular strength training will help build muscle mass and improve overall strength, indirectly benefiting your grip.

Cardiovascular Exercise: Engage in aerobic activities like running, swimming, or cycling to strengthen your heart and improve cardiovascular fitness.

Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides the nutrients your body needs for muscle function and heart health.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to muscle tension and inflammation, so practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation or yoga can be beneficial.

*DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.*

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.