Obesity and the Heart

A normal BMI is between 18 and 25, and a BMI higher than 30 is considered obese. In the United States, studies show that more than 30% of US adults are obese. It’s not a secret that obesity comes with much more serious health issues, such as heart disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every four deaths each year in the United States is due to heart disease.

How does obesity affect the heart?

Obesity has been shown to adversely affect left ventricular structure, as well as systolic and diastolic function. Increased body fat may directly contribute to changes in your heart, including:

• Atherosclerosis

• Left atrial enlargement (swelling of the left side of your heart)

• Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH)

Obesity is also a risk factor for atrial fibrillation, a type of abnormal heart rhythm, and also known as irregular heartbeat. Many studies have shown that it may cause one-fifth of all cases of atrial fibrillation, and this can lead to blood clots that cause stroke.

How do I reduce my risk of heart disease?

Heart problems related to obesity can be improved or even resolved with weight loss. Combine healthy diet combined with aerobic exercise. Eat fewer calories can help reduce abdominal fat. Choose activities that you enjoy, such as brisk walking, dancing, or swimming.

The Seriously Health Weight Loss Program

Here at Seriously Health, we are committed to helping patients lose weight in a cozy and judgement-free environment. As one of the biggest and most efficient weight loss clinics in the Hampton Roads area, our mission is to continue using the same methods mastered over decades, while incorporating new and effective treatments being discovered in obesity medicine every day.

Ready to lose weight? Get in touch with us to know more about how our program works!