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Did You Know?

  • In 1993 13% of men and 16% of women were obese
  • By 2016, 26% of men and 24% of women were obese and two thirds of adults were overweight.

This classification of obesity or overweight is measured using Body Mass Index (BMI) - BMI = weight (kilogram)/[height (metres)]2

The BMI categories are:
Healthy weight 18.5 – 24.9kg/m2
Overweight 25kg/m2 or more
Obese 30kg/m2 or more

Being in the healthy weight category can:

  • Reduce risk of heart disease and certain cancers
  • Reduce burden on your heart and circulatory system
  • Reduce blood triglycerides, blood glucose, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes
  • Improve regulation of blood pressure
  • Reduce joint and muscle pains
  • Improve energy levels and ability to be active
  • Improve sleep pattern

Another way to determine your risk factors is to assess your body shape by measuring your waist circumference - wind a tape measure around your middle in line with your tummy button. 
This table shows whether or not you are at an increased risk. ?????

Excess weight increases how hard the heart has to work as:

  • It raises blood pressure (BP), blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • It lowers HDL (good cholesterol) levels 
  • It can increase your risk of developing diabetes

Lifestyle changes leading to a 3-5% weight loss are likely to result in clinically meaningful improvements in blood glucose, triglycerides, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Greater weight loss can help reduce blood pressure and improve blood cholesterol.

According to the World Health Organisation, the eight key risk factors for 
cardiac disease are: ??????????????

These account for as much as 61% of all cardiovascular deaths and over three quarters of all coronary heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Useful Websites
www.bhf.org.uk
www.bda.uk.com/foodfacts

Ask your Cardiac Disease Risk Management Nurse Specialist, or Exercise 
Professional, to refer you to see the dietitian for an appointment to discuss 
healthy weight loss, long term weight management, and healthy eating 
following your cardiac event

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Dietetics service.

About this information

Service:
Dietetics

Reference:
DT/001

Approval date:
31 August 2025

Review date:
30 August 2028

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.