High-fat health risks

It is widely recognized that being overweight is not healthy, but news about lung health highlights another reason to maintain your weight.

The list of unhealthy side effects of gaining weight now includes asthma. Add that to the increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Being overweight is a risk factor for asthma, but previously it was thought that this was due to reduced space for lung expansion and from inflammation. In 2010 the American Thoracic Society stated that high-fat meals increased airway inflammation and should be avoided in anyone with asthma.

Now new research has shown that excess fat builds up in the airway walls and increases inflammation in the lungs. Fat can clog the lungs by changing the structure of the airways.

Eating a high-fat, highly processed diet is one of the primary causes of weight gain. These foods are calorie-rich, nutrient deficient and easily absorbed for easy storage.

High-fat diets

While high-fat diets are currently popular, they aren’t necessarily healthier. The list of consequences to a high-fat diet include;

Changes to red blood cells. After a high-fat meal red blood cell structure changes from round and smooth to spikey and more likely to clot.

Blood clots are more likely. A single high fat meal increases the likelihood of blood clots even in healthy people.

Damage to arteries. One single high-fat meal can damage arteries and reduce blood flow for up to 4 hours following a high-fat meal.

Reduce testosterone. Healthy men who eat a single high-fat meal see a significant drop in testosterone levels. Overweight men that eat a high-fat meal see a 25% drop in testosterone levels for up to 4 hours.

You can now add having an increased risk of asthma from gaining extra weight, and the easiest way to gain extra body fat is to eat more dietary fat.

Body Mass Index is directly related to how much fat is stored in your airways. Find out your BMI below [bmi].

A normal BMI range is between 20-25 with 25-27 being above normal, 27-30 being overweight and over 30 is defined as obese.

Reduce your risk

The best way to reduce your health risks from excess weight is to choose unprocessed, whole, nutrient-dense foods. Foods that are high in fibre and nutrients while low in calories, fat and sugar.

Eating regularly, making your own meals, and limiting processed foods make a big difference to your weight and your waistline.

Finally, don’t expect miracles. If you are trying to lose weight aim for modest reductions in consumption, add a bit more activity throughout the day, get enough sleep and stick with it. Over time consistency matters more, and lasts longer, than dramatic changes.

Change your mind, change your health,

Shayla