by Susan Patterson
Almost 300,000 Americans die each year due to heart disease.  A study from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine looked at 7000 men and women from all different backgrounds to determine additional risk factors.  Research showed that 44% of the 79 participants who have developed congestive heart failure so far are obese.  None of them had symptoms of heart trouble before beginning the study.  Even if you feel healthy, obesity can cause a long period of inflamed heart tissue, leading to more serious problems including heart failure later on in life.

The increased risk is not simply due to abdominal fat or high blood pressure.  Three chemicals in the blood responsible for inflammation were measured and found to be much higher in people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater.  The chemical interleukin 6, a catalyst for inflammation and activator of white blood cells, was found to be elevated.  Other chemicals include C-reactive protein, which was three times higher in obese people, and fibrinogen, which was 20% higher.  Over time, the increased levels of these chemicals in the blood have a significant effect on the heart and its probability of failure.  This is all the more reason why it’s important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

When trying to lose weight, be sure to follow a sensible diet and get a moderate amount of exercise.  Begin slowly and incorporate small changes into your daily routine.  If you have been sedentary for a long period of time, you may experience quick weight loss in the beginning.  This is perfectly natural, and does not mean your program is unsafe.  If hunger is a problem, try a natural appetite suppressant like hoodia to help kick poor eating habits.  This herb is praised for decreasing appetite while increasing energy and maintaining a positive mood.  Set up a good support system, and be sure to clear any weight loss program with your doctor before beginning.