Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for many common diseases. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent these diseases. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), 3 out of every 4 adults age 20 or older in the United States are overweight or obese.
Some of the most common chronic diseases linked to obesity are:
Type 2 diabetes - a disease that occurs when your blood sugar is too high. 9 in 10 people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. (NIH)Â
High blood pressure - (hypertension) a condition in which blood flows with a greater force than normal. Having high levels of body fat can increase blood pressure because your heart needs to work harder to supply blood to your cells. (NIH)
Heart disease - includes problems like heart attack or heart failure. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. (NIH)
Osteoarthritis - pain, swelling and stiffness in your joints. Obesity is the leading risk factor for osteoarthritis in the knees, hips, ankles. (NIH)
Mental health challenges - including stress, problems with body image, low self esteem, depression, eating disorders. (NIH)
Achieve a Healthy Weight to Improve Overall Health
For improved health benefits, do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week and at least 2 or more days a week of proper strength training. An increase in physical activity can help create a calorie deficit which results in weight loss.