When do Those Extra Pounds Start to Become a Health Risk?
We all know that being overweight can be quite unhealthy and lead to many dangerous health conditions. While we all want to maintain an ideal weight, it is often difficult to determine what that number is. On top of that, there have been recent news stories that have stated being slightly overweight may actually be better for your health. So how do you know what is ideal, and what is hazardous? When do those extra pounds start to become a health risk?
The general rule of thumb is that you should try to be within about ten pounds of your recommended weight relative to your height. New standards state that anyone more than thirty pounds over weight is considered to be obese and at high risk for developing certain types of diseases and chronic conditions. Here are a few of the main reasons it is important to consider losing some weight, or maintain ideal proportions.
Heart Health: Carrying around extra pounds can really put a strain on your heart and your entire cardiovascular system. All of your arteries, blood vessels, and veins, are put under much more stress than they should be, which significantly increases your risk for stroke, heart attack, heart disease, high blood pressure, and various other conditions.
Decreased Lung Function: Extra weight can also lead to and exasperate breathing problems. Your lungs have to work much harder than normal, just as with your cardiovascular system. Asthma, and sleep apnea are two of the most common conditions afflicting overweight individuals.
Increased Risk for Diseases: People who are overweight are at a higher risk for developing certain types of cancer, diseases, and chronic conditions. Women who are overweight are at a higher risk for developing ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, gallbladder cancer, and uterine cancer. Men, who are overweight, have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, and colon or rectal cancers. Type two diabetes is also a direct result of being overweight. Those who carry excess weight have a much higher risk of developing this condition since their blood sugar levels are much more difficult to regulate.
Joint Deterioration: Your body having to carry around extra pounds puts your joints under a great deal of stress and pressure. This can lead to arthritis, Gout, and overall joint wear and tear.
Loss of Energy: Finally, one of the main reasons to consider losing some weight is for energy. The process of having to carry around extra body fat can really sap energy levels. An extra ten pounds of body fat is similar to having to carry around a ten pound bag of feed with you at all times. Your body is stressed, you become tried easily, and it becomes difficult to perform normal activities. Losing just five pounds can increase your energy level by as much as twenty-five percent. This can do wonders for all parts of your life.
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