New Research Shows Weight Plays a Large Part in COVID Complications
As you undoubtedly know, there has been a seemingly random pattern of those without underlying medical conditions experiencing significant complications due to COVID. Of course, these cases garner a great deal of media attention. However, there is an underlying and relatively obvious pattern that doesn’t get as much attention as the more sensational cases do. A study from Italy shows that approximately 78% of serious complications, including hospitalization, intubation and death from COVID have been in overweight or obese patients. A full 50% of serious cases have occurred in those with a BMI of over 30, which is considered obese.
How Does This Relate to Heart Disease?
One of the modifiable and preventable causes of heart disease is, of course, excess weight and obesity. Excess weight causes a host of metabolic issues that affect virtually every organ in the body. From high blood pressure and high cholesterol to type-2 diabetes and hormonal changes, just about every obesity related problem has an effect on the heart. With the risk of complications from coronavirus being significantly increased this is a true concern.
You may be heartened, however, that the vaccine for coronavirus has been rolled out to millions. In fact, you may have already received your doses of the vaccine. However, obesity causes complications here too. According to another study, the vaccine is decidedly less effective, inducing fewer antibodies in obese patients, than in patients with a normal BMI.
We have discussed the ways to get healthier through diet and exercise including the Mediterranean diet. Use some of the resources below to improve your health and reduce your risk of not only coronavirus complications, but also cardiovascular issues as a whole.
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