Source: Shutterstock
Heart Truth #3: Weighing the Risks
Last updated: Monday, December 21, 2020 | 2 min reading time
While you might not be hugely overweight, that doesn't mean you shouldn't be concerned. Anyone with body weight exceeding their recommended weight range by just 20% or more is considered obese. And once you hit that mark, your risk of heart attack is roughly 3 times greater than that of someone within the healthy weight range.
Being overweight or obese can:
- Raise your cholesterol levels
- Increase your blood pressure
- Increase your risk of developing diabetes
All of which put you at greater risk of heart disease.
Did you know that the leading cause of death by far among diabetics is diabetic heart disease? A high blood sugar level predisposes diabetics to more artery blockages throughout the body, and they also tend to have a very poor cholesterol profile.
So how do you maintain a healthy weight or lose weight? It’s not rocket science – try smaller portions for meals and snacks. How much you eat matters.
Going for preventive heart screening is an effective way to identify hidden heart health risks.
For your peace of mind, talk to one of our heart specialists today or read about how to make healthcare insurance claims to cover your hospital bills.
Related Articles
View all
6 Signs of Heart Attacks in Women
Heart attack symptoms in women are often 'silent' but the consequences of not noticing them can be life threatening. Besides frequent heart screenings, knowing the signs can help prevent heart attacks.
Sudden Cardiac Death in Modern Day Athletes
This is a phenomenon that has been rearing its head much more in recent years. Athlete or not, it is important to understand its possible causes.
How Can I Stop a Heart Attack?
Heart attacks are the 2nd most common cause of death after cancer in Singapore – but help is available for if you are diagnosed and treated early.
Is Your Job Bad for Your Heart?
Various kinds of jobs create different types of stress, and whether the stress becomes harmful depends on the individual.
Diabetes and Amputation: How to Save Your Leg
Complications arising from diabetes and Peripheral Arterial Disease often result in patients losing a limb, but it does not have to be that way.
Sports Heart Expert Tells All
It’s not unusual to hear of professional athletes suffering a heart attack at the peak of their game. Cardiologists can provide expert advice to athletes.
