Dear Dr. Walt, is being overweight or obese really dangerous? My family doctor seems to think so, but I read conflicting opinions. Some say you can be fit and overweight. I’d like to believe that’s true! — Carrying Too Much Weight in Wyoming

Dear Uncertain,

Obesity and overweight are conditions that are epidemic in America. The CDC reports that nearly 75% of U.S. adults are overweight or obese. The repercussions of being overweight or obese are enormous in that you have increased risks of . . .

• Diabetes (risk increases 10- to 20-fold)
• Elevated blood pressure along with heart and brain-damaging levels of cholesterol or inflammatory chemicals.
• Osteoarthritis (also called “wear and tear” or “degenerative” arthritis)
• Some types of cancer
• Sleep apnea and other breathing and sleeping problems
• Clinical depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders
• Lower quality of life and difficulty with physical functioning
• All causes of death

The first two on this list are “silent killers” because they initially have no symptoms while boosting your risk of cardiovascular disease (including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke), chronic kidney failure, and premature death.

The bottom line is that being overweight or obese can reduce both your quality and quantity of life.

But what can you do about it? Watch my next three video blogs and consider picking up a copy of my book, The Natural Medicines Handbook: The Truth about the Most Effective Herbs, Vitamins, and Supplements for Common Conditions.

TO LEARN MORE OR ORDER A COPY CLICK HERE

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2022. This blog provides healthcare tips and advice that you can trust about a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.