The events that have happened in recent years made us aware that life is precious, which is reason enough for us to stay healthy and live a life of quality. Yet not a few seem to view quality life as something to do with indulging in food and beverages, while simply lounging and binge watching or video gaming in a comfortable chair all through the day. Actually this is the kind of lifestyle that often leads to obesity and obesity-related disorders such as heart disease, hypertension, stroke, type 2 diabetes and in some cases, cancer.
Actually, obesity has increased in epic proportions in the past decade, especially in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 42.4% of adult Americans were diagnosed as obese in 2017 to 2018. When compared to the statistical data gathered in 1999 to 2000, obesity prevalence in the US population was lower at 30.5%.
Corollary data showed that medical costs incurred by obese Americans reached $147 billion in 2008. The prevalence of obesity through the years have been linked to increased cases of heart diseases, which increased risks of premature deaths.
An Obese Condition Increases Cholesterol Level
Increase in cholesterol levels happen as a result of consuming too much food. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans explain that the human body, naturally produces all the cholesterol it needs. This means dietary cholesterol derived from food, which is high in saturated fat is not necessary.
Cholesterol is actually a greasy, fat-like substance present in all body cells and is naturally produced mostly by the liver. Dietary cholesterol, or those coming from food are high in saturated fats that can clog veins and arteries, which increases the risks of developing cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure and stroke .
Moreover, high cholesterol levels tend to compromise the high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol. HDL’s main function is to reduce the bad effects of dietary cholesterol and lessen the risks of developing heart disease.
An Obese Body Demands Higher Pressure for Blood Circulation
An obese condition demands greater supply of oxygen, which tends to increase the rate by which the heart pumps up blood. This will trigger an increase in pressure to enable the blood to move around, from the heart down to the limbs and feet and up again to the central nervous system. High blood pressure in obese bodies are sadly a common cause of a heart attack,
Still, bear in mind that other health problems and not just heart disease, may arise as results of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. In order to stay in good shape and live quality life in terms of good health, we need to take control of our weight not only to combat obesity, but also to prevent heart disease.