Love Your Heart: Busting Top 3 Heart Health Myths
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Feb 9
- 4 min read
February isn’t just about Valentine’s chocolates! It's also Philippine Heart Month, a perfect reminder to take care of the most important muscle in your body: your heart. While many of us are aware of the basics of heart health, there are plenty of myths that can put our well-being at risk.
To help clear the confusion, we spoke with Dr. Everly Miclat, a General Practitioner at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, about the truths behind common heart misconceptions.
Myth 1- Heart disease only happens to older people
“This is not true. Heart disease can affect anyone, even people in their 20s or 30s, especially if they smoke, vape, drink alcohol, avoid exercise, or eat a high-fat diet,” Dr. Everly explained.
She added that certain inherited conditions, like familial hypercholesterolemia, can raise LDL (bad cholesterol) from a young age, increasing the risk of stroke or heart attack early in life. Another genetic factor, Lipoprotein(a), can also elevate heart disease risk independently of age.
“Even young adults should be mindful of their lifestyle and consider genetic testing if there’s a family history of heart disease.”
Myth 2- Taking vitamins or supplements is enough to keep the heart healthy
“Relying on supplements alone is a myth. No pill can replace a healthy lifestyle.” Dr. Everly emphasized.
The key to heart health, she explained, is a balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients, regular exercise, avoiding harmful habits, stress management, and consistent checkups. Supplements are only necessary if a deficiency is confirmed, like vitamin D for those who don’t get enough sun.
“If your diet is balanced, you may not need extra supplements at all. Always consult a doctor before taking anything.”
Myth 3- Women are less likely to get heart disease than men
“This is also a myth. Women today face similar risks, especially if they smoke, drink, or experience high stress,” Dr. Everly noted.
She highlighted that women’s stress management is crucial for overall heart health. Proper nutrition, exercise, blood pressure monitoring, and regular checkups are just as important for women as for men.
“Being female doesn’t automatically protect you from heart disease. It always depends on your risk factors.”
Heart Health Is for Everyone
Dr. Everly Miclat reminds us that heart disease is preventable and manageable at any age, but only if we stay informed and proactive. Small changes like eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress, and scheduling regular checkups with a trusted doctor can make a world of difference.
Doctor Anywhere makes it easy to stay on top of your heart health. With 24/7 online consultations, blood pressure monitoring guidance, and personalized advice, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier heart anytime, anywhere.
Our general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including cardiologists and endocrinologists, and mental health experts, all from the comfort of your home.
If you’re still looking for an affordable annual health plan, you can subscribe to DA Healthwise for just ₱99/year. This annual health plan allows you to access discounted video consultations with general practitioners, specialists, and even mental health experts. Plus, you'll unlock exclusive discounts and freebies from DA Perks’ health and wellness partner merchants, including Tamang Alaga (RiteMED), Starfinder Optical, and more! Don’t forget to subscribe your loved ones to their own DA Healthwise plan, too!
Have an HMO or health insurance?
Link your membership account for fully covered video consultations for you and your dependents. Doctor Anywhere’s accredited health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and insurance providers include Etiqa, Flexicare, Forticare, Fortune Life, Generali, Health Maintenance, Inc. (HMI), Lacson & Lacson Insurance Brokers, Manulife HealthFlex, Manulife Medical Secure, MCBL HealthFlex, MCBL Medical Secure, Maxicare, MaxiLife, MedAsia Philippines, Medicare Plus, OONA Insurance, SIMPLeTPA, Sun Life Grepa, and WellCare Health Maintenance. Tap here to learn more about Doctor Anywhere’s HMOs and insurance partners.
Exclusive Promo Codes: Save on Your First Video Consultation
Our healthcare providers are available daily, including weekends and holidays, ensuring you get the care you need anytime. Download the free Doctor Anywhere app and use a promo code on your first video consultation to save:
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a general practitioner. Use *promo code DACONSULT30.
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a specialist. Use **promo code DAEXPERTCARE.
Save ₱50 on your first online session with a mental health expert. Use ^promo code DAMENTALHEALTH.
Make the most out of your doctor appointments! Tap here for key reminders to help you prepare for your video consultations.
One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. Promo runs from Jan. 1, 2026 - Dec. 31, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-242044 Series of 2025. *Promo runs from May 1, 2025 - Apr. 30, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-221357 Series of 2025. ^Promo runs from June 3, 2025 to June 2, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-226338 Series of 2025. Visit https://www.doctoranywhere.ph/promos-and-discounts for more information.
Sources:
1. Dr. Miclat, Everly. Interviewed on January 22, 2025.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Everly Candelaria Miclat, RMT, MD, is a telemedicine doctor at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, specializing in Occupational Health and Safety. She also serves as a retainer physician at Aventus Medical Care Inc., Ayala North Exchange Branch.
Dr. Miclat earned her medical degree from San Beda University and brings additional expertise as a Registered Medical Technologist. She is certified in Basic Course in Occupational Medicine (BCOM) and has passed the Australian Medical Council MCQ examination.
Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Miclat is a make-up enthusiast and content creator who loves everything beauty and skincare related. She enjoys cooking for her husband and family, often filming herself putting on make-up and preparing meals - combining her passions for health, beauty, and creativity in her everyday life.
Comments