What Losing Weight Does for Your Heart
Being overweight can have a large impact on your heart health, but losing weight can help to reverse some of the damage. Here is a look at some of the benefits that you can expect when you shed those pounds:
Lower Cholesterol Levels
When you lose weight, your body begins to produce less LDL cholesterol, which is known to cause health problems because it sticks to the walls of your arteries. This can lead to a build-up of plaque, causing atherosclerosis, a narrowing of your arteries that can lead to heart attack or stroke. In addition, when you reduce your weight, your body produces more HDL cholesterol. This is considered to be the good form of cholesterol, as it helps to transport cholesterol away from your arteries, reducing the risk of these problems.
Lower Blood Pressure
Being overweight or obese can put strain on your heart, causing your blood pressure to rise. Lowering your weight by even a few pounds can make a big difference in terms of your overall blood pressure levels. This is an important step in maintaining optimal heart health.
Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is known to contribute to various cardiovascular diseases. When you are overweight, your body produces more substances that can cause inflammation. Through controlling your weight and introducing anti-inflammatory foods into your diet such as fresh fruits and vegetables, you can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases of the heart.
Improve Heart Rhythm
Excess bodyweight can put strain on your heart, leading to an irregular heart rhythm. Shedding some of those pounds will lower the strain on your heart and help to regulate your heart rhythm.
Lower Risk of Diabetes
Being overweight increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Excess bodyweight causes your cells to become resistant to insulin, a hormone that is responsible for controlling your blood sugar levels. Losing weight is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of developing this serious condition.
Overall, losing weight is not only important for improving the way you look and feel, but is also essential for maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. By controlling your weight and following a healthy lifestyle, you can enjoy a healthier heart for many years to come.