People are motivated to lose weight for many reasons: to have more energy, look better for a wedding or reunion, fit into a new pair of jeans, or get ready for swimsuit season. But the most important reason for losing weight is your health. Increased body weight can up your risk for these serious health issues. Weight loss can also be about living longer and living healthier.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is almost six times more common in people who are overweight than in those who are lean. According to the American Heart Association, 22 pounds of excess weight boosts blood pressure, which can then increase risk of stroke.
Heart Disease
A 2007 study in Archives of Internal Medicine found that simply being overweight boosted the risk of heart disease by 32%, and for those that are obese, the risk increased by 81%. Extra weight increases your likelihood to have high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which in turn increase your risk for heart disease. The good news is that by simply losing 5%-10% of your weight, you lower your chance of developing heart disease.
Diabetes
Excess weight and obesity almost always go hand in hand with diabetes. About 90% of people with type 2 diabetes (the most common form of the disease) are overweight or obese. You can cut your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by losing weight, eating a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and exercising more. For those who already have type 2 diabetes, losing weight and becoming more physically active can help control blood sugar levels.
Cancer
Studies have shown a link between excess body weight and many different cancers such as, colon, breast (after menopause), endometrium (the lining of the uterus), kidney, and esophagus, just to name a few. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 1 out of every 3 cancer deaths in the United States is linked to excess body weight, poor nutrition, and/or physical inactivity. Of these three factors, body weight is the most significant, contributing to as many as 1 out of 5 cancer-related deaths.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a breathing condition that can cause a person to snore heavily and to briefly stop breathing during sleep. Those who carry extra weight have an increased risk of sleep apnea, which may cause daytime sleepiness and make heart disease and stroke more likely.
If you’re worried that your weight may increase your chance for these serious health conditions, contact Blue Sky MD for a free consultation. Our physician supported weight loss program can help you start losing weight today. And best of all, our program is covered by most insurance plans.
