Body Mass Index or BMI is a measure that indicates whether a person is underweight, normal, overweight, or obese with respect to their height and weight. A healthy BMI range is between 18.5 to 24.9.

People with a BMI outside of this range are at risk of developing several health problems that can be fatal in some cases. Here are some of the deadly effects of an unhealthy BMI:.

Cardiovascular Diseases

People who have a high BMI are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

When a person has a high BMI, their heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout their body, which may lead to heart damage over time. Additionally, high BMI can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can cause them to narrow and harden, resulting in high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Diabetes

High BMI is also linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Being overweight or obese can cause insulin resistance, which means that the body is unable to use insulin properly.

Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) get into your cells to be used for energy. When the body is resistant to insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and eventually, type 2 diabetes.

Cancer

Studies have shown that high BMI is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.

It is believed that the excess fat tissue in the body produces hormones that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, people with a high BMI often have high levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor, which can also promote the growth of cancer cells.

Joint Problems

Excess weight puts stress on the joints, especially the knees and hips. Over time, this can lead to joint pain and damage, including osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that normally cushions the joints wears down, resulting in bone rubbing against bone, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. This can significantly reduce a person’s mobility, making it difficult for them to move around and carry out daily tasks.

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Respiratory Problems

People with a high BMI are more likely to experience respiratory problems, including sleep apnea and asthma. Sleep apnea is a condition where a person’s breathing is interrupted while they sleep.

This can lead to daytime fatigue, increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and other health problems. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can make it difficult to breathe.

Mental Health Issues

Being overweight or obese can also have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. Studies have shown that people with a high BMI are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and body image issues.

This can be especially harmful to children and adolescents, who may experience bullying and social stigma due to their weight. These mental health issues can lead to a vicious cycle of overeating and further weight gain.

Pregnancy Complications

High BMI can also increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and pre-eclampsia.

These conditions can be harmful to both the mother and the baby and may require early delivery or a caesarean section. Additionally, babies born to mothers with a high BMI are more likely to be born prematurely and have a low birth weight.

Reducing Your BMI

If you have a high BMI, it’s important to take steps to reduce it in order to avoid these deadly health effects. This can be achieved through a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help you lose weight and achieve a healthy BMI. Additionally, incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help you burn calories, strengthen your muscles, and improve your overall health.

Conclusion

Having an unhealthy BMI can have a devastating impact on your health, putting you at risk of developing several deadly diseases and health conditions.

However, by taking steps to reduce your BMI, you can significantly improve your overall health and reduce your risk of these health problems.