Nutrition: Diseases Caused by Obesity

by. Leah Rampolla


According to obesityinamerica.org more than 80% of people with type 2 diabetes are obese or overweight.  CDC data indicates that 2/3 of U.S. adults with type 2 diabetes have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater which is classified as overweight and unhealthy. Overweight and obese people have an increased instance of heart failure, heart attack, sudden cardiac death, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Excessive body fat is also linked to higher levels of triglycerides and LDLs and lower levels of HDL cholesterol which fosters the development of heart disease. Hypertension (high blood pressure) greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure. Blood pressure rises as body weight increases. Losing only ten pounds can lower blood pressure.  Losing weight has the biggest effect on those who are overweight and already have hypertension.

1 in 5 overweight people are affected by metabolic syndrome or syndrome X26. Metabolic syndrome can cause diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Metabolic syndrome is one of the fastest growing obesity related health concerns in the U.S.  This syndrome is characterized by obesity, hypertension, abnormal lipid levels, and high blood sugar. The CDC states that metabolic syndrome affects nearly one quarter- 22% or 47 million members of the U.S. population.

Another medical condition perpetuated by obesity is dyslipidemia. This condition occurs when LDL and triglyceride levels are high and HDL is low. Doctors attribute this shift in lipid levels to weight gain. To counter this condition weight loss is recommended. Losing twenty pounds can reduce LDL by 15%, reduce triglyceride levels by 30%, increase HDL by 8%, and reduce total cholesterol levels by 10%.


There is also a potential link between thyroid conditions and obesity. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and there is currently an assumed link between obesity and thyroid glands but further study is needed to confirm this relationship.

Numerous data illustrates the numerous and potential fatal medical conditions and diseases that are caused by overweight and obesity. Proper nutrition and regular exercise are imperative for not only a good quality of life but a long and healthy life as well.