Being overweight increases the risk of a number of serious diseases and health conditions. Below is a list of said risks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Health Risks Associated With Obesity / Excess Weight
High blood pressure (Hypertension)
High LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol)
Low HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) and high triglycerides
Type 2 diabetes
Coronary heart disease
Stroke
Gallbladder disease
Osteoarthritis (joint cartilage breakdown)
Sleep apnea and breathing problems
Certain cancers (endometrial, breast, colon, kidney, gallbladder, liver)
Lower quality of life
Mental health challenges (such as depression and anxiety)
Body pain and difficulty performing physical activities
Fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
High risk of insulin resistance
Hormonal imbalance and fertility problems
Sleep quality problems and daytime fatigue
Increased inflammation in the body
Kidney problems and reduced kidney function
Higher risk of blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis)
Healthy weight is not only about appearance — it supports the function of the whole body.
Generally, an increased risk of mortality compared to those with a healthy BMI As can be seen from the list above, there are numerous negative, in some cases fatal, outcomes that may result from being overweight. Generally, a person should try to maintain a BMI below 25 kg/m2, but ideally should consult their doctor to determine whether or not they need to make any changes to their lifestyle in order to be healthier.
