Weight Loss for a Healthy Heart

There are many health benefits to losing and maintaining a healthy weight. For example, improved mood or reduced risk for diseases like diabetes. The most important benefit that can result from your weight loss program is having a healthy heart.

Overworking Your Heart

Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are commonly affected by excess weight. When you carry excess weight, it forces your heart to work harder than necessary. This can increase your chance of experiencing a stroke or heart attack. Overworking your heart also makes it difficult for you to engage in simple activities like walking up the stairs.

How to Improve Your Heart Health

1. Relax. According to the American Heart Association, chronic stress can cause damage to your artery walls. To improve your heart health, it is important to take breaks, release stress and enjoy time to yourself.

2. Try a cardio workout. Running errands doesn’t provide the same health benefits as going for a jog. As you lose weight, engaging in cardiovascular activities will become easier. Work your way up by starting with jumping jacks or going for a walk after work.

3. Eliminate added sugars. For both your weight loss efforts and your heart health, it is wise to eliminate added sugars from your diet. Sugar is in a lot of processed foods, so it is easy to eat upwards of 15 teaspoons a day without realizing it. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume 5 teaspoons of added sugar daily and that men consume no more than 9.

4. Reduce alcohol consumption. Drinking puts you at risk of gaining more weight through added calories. Whether you choose beer, wine, or a cocktail, most drinks have more than 100 calories per serving. It’s best to limit your drinking or save it for special occasions.

Losing weight can improve your quality of life and your overall health. By keeping on track with your weight loss program, you can experience dramatic heart health benefits that will last a lifetime.