KRLD recently asked Fahmi Farah, M.D. to come on the air in Dallas, TX to discuss the effects of weight loss on heart health. Obesity is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, as overweight individuals are at increased risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries. However, Dr. Farah mentioned that even a small amount of weight loss can improve cardiovascular risk factors, and a study of over 50,000 people showed that regaining a portion of the weight loss still maintained healthy effects, such as reducing inflammation and maintaining lower risk factors. Dr. Farah also noted that being too underweight, which can be caused by eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia, can be damaging and even life-threatening for the heart.
To maintain heart health, Dr. Farah encourages weight loss and reduces cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Even just a small amount of weight loss can be beneficial in reducing these risks. The study of over 50,000 people, which found that regaining some weight didn’t negate the effects of weight loss, gives hope to those who may struggle with keeping weight off. As always, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight, as being underweight can also have damaging effects on the heart.