(WXYZ) — In today’s Health Alert, a reminder that clearing all this snow can be tougher on the body than it looks. And for some people, it can even raise the risk of a heart attack.

It’s surprising to many people because here in Michigan, shoveling feels like a normal household chore.

The problem is, the cold weather alone makes your body work harder just to stay warm. When you’re outside, you’re wearing layers of winter clothing, and that can make any physical activity harder. So, when you start lifting heavy, wet snow, your heart suddenly has to handle a lot more stress.

Now, most of the shoveling motion is arm work. That is tougher on the heart than using your legs. And when people lift a big load of snow, they often unconsciously hold their breath. And that spikes heart rate and blo

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