8. Obesity – The Weighty Concern
Obesity is a condition marked by excessive body fat. Overweight and obese individuals are more likely to develop heart disease and other health problems. This excess weight forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, a factor that increases the risk of left-sided heart failure.
Obesity also contributes to other heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. This combination can expedite the onset of left-sided heart failure, underlining the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.
Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight are essential steps in preventing heart disease and left-sided heart failure. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are primary components of any weight management plan. With effective management, the risk of obesity-related left-sided heart failure can be significantly reduced. (8)
