When you carry excess weight, particularly around your middle, your heart has to work much harder to pump blood around your body. This added strain can lead to a cascade of negative effects on your cardiovascular system:
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Being overweight or obese significantly increases your risk of high blood pressure. This forces your heart to pump with more force, damaging your arteries over time and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Unhealthy Cholesterol Levels: Excess weight often leads to higher levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, while lowering "good" cholesterol (HDL). These imbalances contribute to the build-up of fatty deposits in your arteries, narrowing them and making them prone to blockages.
Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is a primary risk factor for developing Type 2 Diabetes. This condition, characterised by high blood sugar levels, can damage blood vessels and nerves that control your heart, dramatically increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Inflammation: Excess body fat can trigger chronic low-grade inflammation throughout your body, which contributes to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and other heart problems.
Sleep Apnea: Overweight individuals are more prone to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to increased blood pressure and strain on the heart, raising the risk of heart attack, stroke, and irregular heartbeats.
The good news is that even modest weight loss can have a profound positive impact on your heart health. Losing just 5-10% of your body weight can lead to significant improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar control, and overall cardiovascular risk. It can reduce the strain on your heart, improve its efficiency, and give you more energy for daily activities.
We know that losing weight isn't always easy, and it's certainly not a one-size-fits-all journey. That's why Riverview HC Pharmacy offers a comprehensive and medically supervised weight loss clinic designed to provide you with personalised support and effective strategies, right here in Sunderland.
Our service goes beyond just traditional advice; we offer solutions that can truly help you achieve sustainable weight loss and, in turn, a healthier heart. Our experienced pharmacists will work with you to:
Provide Personalised Consultations: We'll conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history, current lifestyle, and weight loss goals to create a plan tailored specifically for you.
Offer Medicated Weight Management: For suitable individuals, we can provide access to prescription-only weight loss medications. These medications, when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and increased physical activity, can help to reduce appetite, control cravings, and improve feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to your weight loss plan. Our pharmacists will explain how these treatments work and ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.
Deliver Ongoing Support and Motivation: We understand that consistency is key. Our clinic offers regular follow-up appointments and check-ins to monitor your progress, address any challenges, and keep you motivated on your journey.
Supply Educational Resources: We'll equip you with practical tools and knowledge, including meal planning guides, exercise recommendations, and tips for maintaining your results long-term.
Investing in your weight loss journey is an investment in your long-term heart health. Don't let excess weight put your most vital organ at risk.
Take the first step towards a healthier heart today!
To learn more about our medicated weight loss services and book your confidential consultation at Riverview HC Pharmacy, visit:
https://riverviewhcpharmacy.co.uk/services/weight-loss-clinic
Let us help you achieve a healthier weight and a stronger heart, for a more vibrant future.
Whether you’re picking up prescriptions, exploring our wide range of over-the-counter products, or seeking guidance on specific conditions, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
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