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Diet & Weight Loss Archive

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Normal weight, but big belly? That raises heart disease risk

Excess fat in the belly brings a greater risk for developing heart disease, even if one has a normal body weight, according to an American Heart Association statement published online April 22, 2021, by Circulation.

7 strategies to prevent cancer

Making healthy lifestyle changes can prevent an estimated 40% of cancers. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy body weight. People can also help prevent cancers by seeking recommended cancer screenings. Some screenings merely identify cancers early, but others, such as colonoscopies and Pap tests, can find precancerous conditions and are actually able to prevent cancer.

Reducing heart risks in the wake of breast cancer treatment

Hormone therapy is a highly successful breast cancer treatment for women, but it can elevate cardiovascular risk. Women can reduce those risks by being vigilant about their heart health and working closely with their doctors. Women who have taken or are taking these medications as part of breast cancer treatment should focus on adopting a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and keeping close tabs on their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels.

Battle of the bulges

A majority of people over 60 have diverticulosis, a condition in which tiny bulges (called diverticula) appear in weak areas of your colon’s inner wall. The bulges themselves don’t cause symptoms, but they can lead to bleeding or diverticulitis, which occurs when a diverticulum becomes inflamed or infected. People can reduce their risk by eating more fiber and staying physically active.

Wearable fitness trackers may aid weight-loss efforts

A review published online March 17, 2021, by the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that fitness trackers helped overweight or obese people with chronic conditions reduce body weight and body mass index.

A big belly boosts heart risks, even if you’re not overweight

Even if they aren’t overweight, people with big bellies may face a higher risk of heart disease. Regular physical activity and cutting down on simple sugars are the best ways to shed extra belly fat.

More clues about the healthiest carb choices

Diets that contain low-quality, highly refined carbohydrates (such as sugary drinks, candy, white rice, and foods made with white flour) have a high glycemic index and are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Whole and minimally processed carbs that contain fiber and resistant starch (whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fruits and vegetables) have a lower glycemic index and are better for cardiovascular health.

Is a "normal" blood pressure reading too high for women?

A study published Feb. 16, 2021, in Circulation found that women with blood pressure readings in a normal range may still be at higher risk for cardiovascular events. For example, heart attack risk in women rose at a systolic (the upper number) reading of 110 to 119 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and was the same at this level as men with a systolic pressure of 160 mm Hg. But experts say it’s too soon to change blood pressure recommendations for women until more research confirms the results.

Facts about fiber

Fiber improves digestion and may help lower a person’s risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. But according to the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most people meet only half their daily fiber needs. The main reason is not following a basic healthy diet with foods high in fiber. Making small changes in dietary habits and adopting new fiber-rich foods can help people reach their quota.

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