Obesity or excessive weight gain adversely affects the
function of the heart and is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular
disease.
Through an energy-deficit diet and exercise, it is possible
to achieve significant weight loss. Weight loss is known to decrease blood
pressure and fasting blood sugar. It can improve or prevent many of the obesity
related risk factors for heart disease, such as impaired glucose tolerance,
type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and dyslipidemia.
Obesity is also associated with altered lung function. It
can interfere with breathing, especially during sleep and result in snoring.
Over time this may lead to right sided heart dysfunction. All these amongst
others, underscore the need to adopt healthy eating habits and an exercise culture.
You can adopt healthy eating by increasing your intake of
fruits and vegetables. Reduce fast foods intake as they are high in fat and
salt. Diets high in saturated fats and low in fiber are not heart healthy. It
is also important to eat less processed foods as they tend to be high in salt.
A high salt intake is associated with an increase in blood pressure.
The health benefits of moderate intensity exercise such as
brisk walking for about 30 minutes on most days of the week applies to
everyone.
Behavior modification is vital to starting and adhering to a
weight loss program. It is a good start when you are able to lose weight.
Maintaining the weight loss is even more important for sustained benefits. A
healthy lifestyle is well worth the effort.
Desire to have an healthy lifestyle.
Thank you!
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