- Obesity is the 2nd leading cause of preventable death, after smoking
- Obesity is an independent risk factor for CVD
- 18.2M adults aged 20 and older have CVD
- 1 in 5 heart attacks is silent
- Moderate weight loss of 5-10% improves obesity-related risk factors for CVD
Modifiable Risk Factors for CVD:
- Overweight and Obesity
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal cholesterol
- Unhealthy diet and physical inactivity
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for CVD:
- Age
- Gender
- Family history
Obesity is an independent risk factor for CVD and can negatively affect function, structure, and blood vessels. Obesity also triggers inflammatory processes that can harm the cardiovascular system and lead to structural and/or functional changes of the heart. Overweight also increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of heart-disease risk factors that include hypertension, high levels of triglycerides, low levels of HDL (the “good” cholesterol), high blood sugar and a large waist circumference (greater than 35 inches in women and greater than 40 inches in men). Obesity can contribute to heart failure, coronary heart disease, stroke, venous thromboembolism, obstructive sleep apnea, and atrial fibrillation.
Obesity triggers inflammatory processes that can harm the cardiovascular system and lead to structural and/or functional changes of the heart
In 2013, The American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology and The Obesity Society published Management Guidelines for Overweight and Obesity
Moderate weight reduction of up to 10% of excess weight can improve obesity-related risk factors. Weight loss decreases the stress on the heart and leads to improvements in its structure and function. The AHA/ACC/TOS obesity guideline recommends that all adults with overweight or obesity achieve the realistic and meaningful goal of 5-10% weight loss within 6 months. Losing weight is one thing, keeping it off is another, and most people that have tried a new commercial, and likely restrictive, diet know that the pounds quickly return. And so begins the yo-yo dieting cycle.
So how do you lose weight safely and sustainably? Clinically, we often discuss with patients that 5-10% total body weight reduction within a 3-6 month period also means reaching a lower body weight that is sustainable.
You can start making small changes with great health benefit:
- Follow a wholesome diet.
- Include vegetables, fruit, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fatty fish such as salmon, lean protein, nuts and legumes and healthy oils and nuts such as olive, walnut, sesame, or grapeseed oils.
- Avoid added sugars, highly processed foods such as chips, cookies.
- Avoid fried foods.
- Pick a routine you can maintain and know that one size does not fit all.
- Understand the importance of movement and physical activity, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep.
Evexia Medical is a doctor founded and operated nutrition and weight management practice specializing in weight loss, prevention of weight regain and optimal health. Our board-certified medical specialists focus on individualizing treatment to achieve a lifetime of sustainable changes. The healthcare provider team includes board-certified medical specialist, registered dietitian and wellness coach. The first step is an Initial Health Assessment with the medical doctor for an in-depth evaluation and treatment plan recommendation. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling 561-621-1096. Be sure to download our Ebook on Heart Disease & Nutrition.
