Obesity is an accumulation of excess fat that leads to other health problems, including heart disease. If you struggle with excess fat, there are step you can take to reduce your risk of heart and health complications. If you start by making small lifestyle changes, you can lose weight and improve the condition of your heart and health. Here’s what you should know.

What Is Obesity?

Many factors contribute to obesity, including a combination of poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.

Inactivity

Sitting for long periods is linked to a slew of health problems, including obesity and heart disease. Be conscious of how much time you spend seated. Take frequent breaks by standing up, walking about, and stretching.

Poor Eating Habits

Your body and brain need nourishing food. If you’re trying to lose weight and raise the nutritional content of your food, eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods and sugary beverages.

Aging

Age-related changes in metabolism and hormone balance can lead to increased weight gain. Older bodies require fewer calories than younger ones. Eat smaller portions as you age to avoid weight gain.

Poor Mood & Sleep

Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and interrupt sleep patterns. Over time, stress and sleep deprivation change how your body processes and stores fat, making it more difficult to shed pounds.

How Obesity Contributes to Heart Disease

Heart disease is responsible for one in four deaths each year in the United States, and obesity is a significant risk factor for heart-related health problems. Here’s how obesity leads to heart disease.

Blood Pressure

Carrying excess fat causes your heart to work harder to distribute oxygen and nutrients to your organs, raising blood pressure. High blood pressure is linked to heart attacks, another health risk heightened by obesity.

Cholesterol

Obesity can spike “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels and lower “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels. Healthy amounts of HDL flushes harmful cholesterol from your blood supply, reducing your risk of heart disease. 

Diabetes

Of seniors who have diabetes, 68% also have heart disease. Reducing body fat can help control diabetes, and controlling diabetes can significantly reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

 

Premier Cardiology Consultants in Dothan, AL, offers quality heart health services. For more than 25 years, they’ve treated hundreds of patients in Houston County, including Andalusia, Ozark, and Enterprise. Call (334) 699-6396 today to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn about all the conditions they treat.