MONDAY, Nov. 9 (HealthDay News) — Obesity is a major risk factor
for left atrial enlargement, which increases the risk of atrial
fibrillation, stroke and death, a new study shows.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of arrhythmia (an irregular
heart rhythm or heartbeat).

Researchers analyzed data on 1,212 men and women, aged 25 to 74, in
Germany who were followed for 10 years. The study authors concluded that
obesity and hypertension cause structural and functional changes in the
heart and are independent predictors of left atrial enlargement (LAE).

The highest incidence of LAE after 10 years was seen in obese people —
31.6 percent compared to baseline prevalence of 10 percent among all study
participants.

The findings, published in the Nov. 17 issue of the Journal of the
American College of Cardiology, confirm the strong association between
obesity and LAE reported in previous research. Some of those studies found
that excess weight may affect left atrial size at an early age,
potentially predisposing young obese people to future heart problems.

The authors of the new study said early assessment and intervention,
especially among younger obese patients, is crucial to prevent the
premature onset of cardiac remodeling — changes in heart size, shape and
function — caused by LAE.

But they noted that it isn't clear how much weight management or
moderate weight loss can improve LAE. Further research is needed.

More information

The American Heart Association has more about atrial fibrillation.

Related Posts

• Dangers of Low Carb Diet (Weight Loss)
• Health Diet Red Meat
• How To Super Fast Weight Loss
• Weight Loss Diet Books
• The Atkins Diet Works

There is plenty of advice from the experts touting the benefits of physical activity today. Whether you are hearing it from the American Heart Association, the food pyramid from the US Department of Agriculture or your own doctor, exercise is a necessary component to a healthier lifestyle. You know you need to get fit, but you have no idea how to get started. The good news is that there are a few basic principles to a complete exercise training program that will get you started on the right sneaker-clad foot and keep you in the game for a healthier lifestyle.

See your Doctor Before you decide to walk that first mile, walk in to your doctors office for a thorough checkup. It is very important to get your doctor’s okay before starting any type of exercise training program, since some medical conditions may determine the type of workout that is safest for you. For example, people with high blood pressure may have to modify the way they complete their strength training workout, and those with a bad back or knees may be better off selecting particular types of aerobic activities than others. You doctor is your first point of information about the exercise training program that will be right for you.

See a Personal Trainer Personal trainers are no longer limited to the fitness world of the rich and famous; today you can find these professionals in most fitness centers and gyms with reasonable fees and a wealth of information for the average Joe. It is a good idea to hire a personal trainer at least for the beginning of your exercise training program, to help you set up the best workout system for you and show you how to safely and effectively use all of the fitness equipment at your local gym. Some people find that by continuing to work with a personal trainer, they are much more likely to stick with their exercise training program and meet the goals that they have set for themselves.

A Few Basics The most effective exercise training program will consist of a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility workouts. Cardiovascular exercise should be done for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Strength training should never be done on back-to-back days, since muscles need time to rest and rebuild after a weight session. Two to three times a week is sufficient for your strength training program. Flexibility work can be done as often as you do your cardiovascular program, preferable after the aerobic workout when muscles are warmed up and will stretch more easily. By following this basic program for your exercise training program, you will have most of your fitness needs well covered.

By: Keil Newman

Article Source: http://www.statssheet.com/articles/article77098.html

Related Posts

• Dangers of Low Carb Diet (Weight Loss)
• Health Diet Red Meat
• How To Super Fast Weight Loss
• Weight Loss Diet Books
• The Atkins Diet Works