Obesity can lead to the development of other health problems, including diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Left untreated, both obesity and heart disease can be fatal. The overall quality of your nutrition affects your risk of developing obesity and heart disease. Other factors can contribute to the development of these conditions, but there are ways to lower your risk of becoming obese or developing heart disease.
Definitions
You are categorized as obese if your body mass index exceeds certain levels for your height and weight. The normal BMI for adults is between 18.5 and 24.9, whereas obesity is defined by a BMI of 30 and higher. Obesity can cause insomnia, back and joint pain, excessive sweating and exhaustion during daily activities. The condition can eventually cause complications such as gallbladder disease and certain kinds of cancer.
Heart disease, a cardiovascular condition, occurs when the functions of your heart and blood vessels are impaired. The term heart disease also encompasses other conditions, such as high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, angina and stroke.
Effect of Nutrition on Obesity and Heart Disease
Obesity mainly results from an imbalanced caloric intake. Calories refer to the amount of energy your body gets from the food you eat. You can become obese as a result of eating more calories than your body can metabolize.
Heart disease often results from the consumption of foods high in fat, sodium and cholesterol. The build-up of fat and cholesterol in your body can cause your blood vessels to become congested. Excessive salt in your diet can elevate your blood pressure to unhealthy levels.
Other Factors
Other factors such as genetics, age and level of physical activity can contribute to your likelihood of developing obesity and heart disease. Your genes and family history can affect your tendency to accumulate body fat and your body's ability to convert food into energy efficiently. Age also affects your tendency to develop both conditions. Although generally considered adult health conditions, younger people also develop obesity and heart disease in some circumstances. Low physical activity can contribute to obesity and heart disease, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lowering the Risks
You can lower your risk of developing obesity and heart disease by regulating your diet. A major step is to lower your saturated fat consumption. Limit your overall salt and sugar intake, as well. Eating more fruits and vegetables, lean meat and high fiber foods contributes to a healthy diet that will help lower your risk.
