The human heart is indeed a delicate muscle. This particular muscle, which is roughly the size of a clenched fist, relies on its rhythmic pumping of blood throughout the body to ensure vitality and proper human functioning.

Certain medical conditions, such as being overweight, can increase the strain on the heart. The excessive amount of weight on a person’s body frame causes the heart to exude more energy in its functioning, thus putting the person at greater risk of developing high blood pressure, which could lead to cardiac arrest. Individuals who are overweight, especially those who are considered obese, typically have higher cholesterol levels. These elevated amounts of cholesterol can lead to the development of heart disease.

A study conducted by the National Institute of Health (nih.gov) found that even subtle increases in body-mass index in overweight people can raise a person’s risk of heart failure. Researchers found that for each increment of one increased in the body-mass index, men had a 5% greater risk and women had a 7% greater risk of heart failure.

The New England Journal of Medicine (nejm.org) predicts that by the year 2020, the rates of obesity in young adults will have greatly increased, resulting in higher numbers of young adults developing heart disease. They state in their findings that obesity will affect 30 to 37% of U.S. men and 34 to 44% percent of U.S. women who are in their mid 30’s. They predict those percentages to increase by another 5 to 16% by 2035, which could result in more than 100,000 excess cases of heart disease.

Being overweight is currently an issue for approximately one out of every three Americans, and this problem should be addressed in order to avoid adverse heart conditions. Exercise and proper nutrition should be included as a regular part of everyday life.

For individuals who are considered morbidly obese (100 pounds or more overweight) medical intervention may be necessary in order to expedite the weight loss process. Procedures, such as the increasing popular lap band surgery, can aid in rapid weight loss. Weight loss surgery should only be conducted in the most extreme circumstances.

By taking care of excessive weight issues, a person can live a happy and heart-healthy life for many years to come.