If you’re struggling to shed some pounds, this might be the push that you need to tip the scale back in your favor. People with a higher body mass index (BMI) are more likely to be hospitalized with serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, gallbladder disease, and more, according to a new study published in The International Journal of Obesity.
“Our study adds to the growing body of evidence that being overweight, not just obese, can increase your risk of health problems,” says lead author Rosemary Korda, PhD, Research Fellow at the Australian National University. “We showed that, on average, risk of hospitalization increases gradually as BMI increases, starting with people in the overweight range.” For reference, overweight is defined as a BMI between 25 and 30; obese is a BMI of 30 or above.
Researchers analyzed the health data of nearly 250,000 people (age 45 and older) in New South Wales over a two-year period of time. The rate of hospitalization (of at least one night) was highest among those with the highest BMI (35-50). That means that for every 1,000 women with the highest BMI surveyed, 183 were hospitalized per year. Even more alarming? This was true of both physically active and inactive people, and of smokers and non-smokers alike, according to the study. So working out and avoiding cancer sticks alone may not save you from having to check in to the hospital.
“Being overweight or obese increases your risk even if you are physically very active,” says Korda. “While our study did not look at the effectiveness of diet and exercise directly, our findings do suggest that if you are overweight or obese and are able to lower your weight through a healthy diet and exercise, this is likely to reduce your risk of health problems and hospitalization.”
Use these four tried-and-true weight-loss strategies to get on the road to a speedier slim-down—and to help keep you out of a hospital gown:
A Non-Crazy Two-Day Cleanse
Jumpstart your weight-loss with this short and sweet Look Better Naked cleanse. Get the meal plan, here.
8 Ways to Suppress Your Appetite
Sometimes, a grumbling stomach can be the biggest diet saboteur. Learn how to trick yourself into feeling satisfied—and keep your hunger hormones in check. Get the tips, here.
Fatty Foods That Make You Skinny
Yes, you read that right. Turns out, certain fatty foods can work for you by boosting your metabolism, improving your heart health, and more. Add these five foods to your diet to fill up—not out.
The Easiest Ways to a Hotter (and Healthier!) Bod
Losing weight doesn’t have to be a complete nightmare. These five easy tricks will make you stronger and leaner in no time. Click here to get the tips.
More from WH:
The Secret to Living Longer
The 18 Self-Checks Every Woman Should Do
Do You Really Need an Annual Checkup?
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