3 ways obesity contributes to heart disease
Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease, affecting millions of people worldwide. Excess weight doesn’t just impact physical appearance — it places a significant strain on the heart, leading to serious cardiovascular complications. At Denver Center for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery, we help patients understand the connection between obesity and heart disease and how weight loss can dramatically improve heart health.
High blood pressure (Hypertension)
Carrying excess weight means your heart has to work harder to pump blood, leading to increased pressure on artery walls. Over time, this damages arteries, making them less flexible and more prone to plaque buildup, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
How weight loss helps:
- Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart.
- Increased physical activity after weight loss strengthens the cardiovascular system.
High cholesterol and fat buildup in arteries
Obesity is linked to high levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides while lowering HDL (“good”) cholesterol. This imbalance leads to plaque formation in arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attacks.
How weight loss helps:
- A healthier diet post-weight loss can improve cholesterol levels.
- Losing weight enhances the body’s ability to regulate fat metabolism and reduce artery-clogging plaque.
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Obesity is one of the strongest predictors of insulin resistance, which leads to type 2 diabetes — a major risk factor for heart disease. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart, dramatically increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
How weight loss helps:
- Losing weight improves insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar levels.
- Bariatric surgery has been shown to put type 2 diabetes into remission in many patients.
Take control of your heart health
Losing weight can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, and bariatric surgery is one of the most effective long-term solutions for those struggling with severe obesity. At Denver Center for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery, our expert team is here to help you take the next step toward a healthier heart and a longer life.
Learn how bariatric surgery and medical weight loss can transform your health and reduce your risk of heart disease by reaching out on the Denver Center for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Contact Us page.