Obesity increases the risk of heart disease in several ways. According to the document, over 65% of the US population is considered obese based on measures like BMI, waist circumference, and risk factors. Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, causes inflammation that damages blood vessels over time and stresses the heart. Studies also show obesity alone can raise the risk of a fatal heart attack because obese individuals often have enlarged hearts that may not function as well during a heart attack. The document recommends losing weight gradually through realistic goals and lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise to lower heart disease risks long-term.

1. Obesity & Heart Disease Why Obesity Increases Your Risk For Heart Disease Beth Barranco, RN, BSN February 22, 2010

2. Obesity and Heart Disease: According to the Centers of Disease Control & Prevention, obesity affects more than 65% of the US population.

3. What is considered obese? Obesity can be determined based on three key measurements: body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and risk factors body mass index (BMI) BMI is your weight relative to your height. BMI calculation of 25.0 or higher = considered overweight (a BMI over 30 is considered obese). waist circumference Your waist circumference indicates abdominal fat. A waist circumference of over 40 inches in men & over 35 inches in women increases the risk for heart disease and other diseases risk factors People with two or more risk factors for heart disease when combined with a high BMI and/or large waist circumference are at even higher risk for heart disease

4. How does obesity contribute to heart disease/heart attack? The more overweight a person is, the more likely he or she is to develop heart disease. Obesity contributes to several risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol/triglycerides & diabetes and these elevated levels cause inflammation in blood vessels and throughout the body increasing the risk for heart disease/heart attack In a recent study, researchers found that obesity alone raises the risk of having a fatal heart attack. A possible reason is obese people usually have larger hearts to cope with the stress of their larger size & the already stressed heart can't manage to continue to work during a heart attack.

5. How do we begin to loose weight in a healthy way? Successful weight loss requires a long-term weight management program that is realistic Set realistic goals and don't focus on just the actual weight loss. Look at dietary and exercise changes that will help to keep weight off Set short-term goals as they are easier to achieve Keep track of your progress. Record what you eat, how often you exercise, and your weight on a regular basis Eat slower and don't skip meals as you could overeat later to compensate

6. Any recommendations on eating healthy? Eating healthy means eating a diet with nutrients and minerals for your body to function properly. A healthy diet consists of a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole grains and healthy oils. Avoid trans fats, high-sodium foods, processed foods & foods high in saturated fat.

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