There are a couple of reasons why being overweight may be dangerous for your heart. If you have too much body fat, you probably also have too much low-density lipoprotein (or LDL) cholesterol in your blood. This type of cholesterol can clog the vessels that supply your heart with blood. You may also have high blood pressure. And carrying too much weight makes your heart work harder.

If you want to find out whether you are overweight, you can figure out your Body Mass Index (BMI). The Body Mass Index is a formula that compares your height with your weight. People with BMIs of 25 or higher are considered overweight.¹ Those with BMIs of 30 or more are obese. If you fall into either of these categories, you might want to talk to your doctor to find out how you can lose weight safely.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.