10 Surprising Facts About the Heart You Need to Know
The heart is undoubtedly one of the most crucial organs in our bodies. It’s responsible for pumping blood throughout our bodies, supplying oxygen, and nutrients to our cells and tissues. But, are there any little-known surprising facts about the heart that might surprise you? Here are ten surprising facts about the heart that you need to know.
The Heart is Not on the Left Side of Your Body
Contrary to popular belief, the heart is not entirely on the left side of your body. Instead, only a small part of the heart is on the left, while most of it is in the middle of your chest. So next time someone asks you where your heart is, you can confidently say, “it’s in the middle of my chest!”
The Heart Can Beat Outside the Body
It may come as a surprise, but the heart can beat even when removed from the body. Researchers have kept a pig’s heart alive for up to 24 hours after being removed from the animal’s body, making groundbreaking advancements in the transplant industry.
The Heart is Stronger than You Think
The heart’s strength is unparalleled. It pumps an incredible 2,000 gallons of blood through the body each day. In a lifetime, the heart pumps enough blood to fill four Olympic-sized swimming pools!
The Heart Can Change Shape and Size
The heart is a muscle that adapts to the work it does. Like any muscle, it can grow stronger or weaker depending on how much you use it. It can even change its shape and size based on exercise and other lifestyle habits.
The Heart Emits Electromagnetic Fields
Did you know that the heart emits electromagnetic fields that can be detected up to several feet away from the body? These fields may help us perceive and navigate the world around us.
The Heart Can Get Sick, Too
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for around 17.9 million deaths annually. So it’s crucial to take care of your heart through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
The Heart Has Its Own Blood Supply
The heart may pump blood through the body, but it also has its blood supply. Coronary arteries supply blood to the heart, ensuring it functions correctly.
The Heart and Gut are Interconnected
Did you know that the heart and gut are interconnected? Studies show that gut health affects the heart’s health. A healthy gut microbe could positively affect the heart’s functioning, reducing the risk of heart diseases.
The Heart Can Be Transplanted
Heart transplants have been performed since the 1960s, and over 3,500 heart transplants are conducted globally each year. It is a life-changing operation that can provide a new lease of life for people living with severe heart conditions.
Your Happiness Affects Your Heart
Your emotional state can affect your heart’s health. Negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, and anger can all harm the heart, while positive emotions like joy and contentment have been shown to improve heart health.
Conclusion
The heart is a fascinating organ that continues to amaze researchers with its complexity and ability to adapt to different situations. Whether it’s the heart’s ability to change shape and size, emit electromagnetic fields, or withstand the pumping of blood throughout the body, these ten surprising facts have hopefully given you a newfound appreciation for the vital role your heart plays in keeping you alive and healthy.
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