Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Thursday issued an advisory in Ludhiana to curb the rising cases of sudden heart attacks among gym goers and sportspersons.
Punjab Government's health advisory is part of its larger mission 'Swasth Punjab – Surakshit Punjab'. The advisory has been issued to create health-conscious environment for the state’s youth where fitness doesn’t come at the cost of life.
The initiative was a collaboration among experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), and Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), to educate and safeguard those who push their physical limits in gyms and sports arenas.
The government has issued cautions for-
Protein powders (whey, casein, plant-based). May contain lead, arsenic and other heavy metals which can damage liver and kidney
Creatine supplements (3-5g/day safe limit) Excess intake can damage kidneys
Vitamin supplements (Vitamin D maximum 60,000 IU/month, excessive intake can cause toxicity)
Egg intake 1-2 per day (not more than 4)
Stimulants (ephedrine, amphetamine, high dose of caffeine) (Can cause liver, kidney and heart damage and hormonal issues)
Advised to say no to-
Anabolic supplements, steroids, testosterone
Energy drinks
Consume proteins from natural source- Chicken breast, egg, fish, paneer, soybean, dal, chana, milk, curd, lassi
Warning signs of organ damage
Unusual fatigue / weakness
Chest pain / shortness of breath
Jaundice / edema
Change in urine color / quantity
In July 2025, a 35-year-old man from Faridabad named Pankaj Sharma died of a heart attack while working out at a gym in Faridabad's Ballabhgarh.
Last week, a 39-year-old man collapsed during a morning workout session at a gym in Chinchwad and was later declared dead. The deceased, identified as Milind Kulkarni of Chinchwad, is suspected to have suffered a heart attack while exercising,.
In February 2024, Deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Dilpreet Singh, who was deputed in Malerkotla died after suffering a cardiac arrest during workout in a gym at a luxury hotel near Bhai Bala Chowk on Ludhiana-Ferozepur Road. He was 50.
