Obese more at risk of catching COVID-19

Experts have warned that people who are overweight are more at risk of contracting the novel coronavirus infection and in some cases succumbing to it.

Multiple studies say that obesity-related conditions worsen the coronavirus infection. Furthermore, many experts feel that obese people should also be put in the vulnerable category.

How obesity puts you at risk of COVID-19

As per recent studies, obesity will increase by 40 per cent in the next decade worldwide. Sadly, lockdown is expected to only exacerbate obesity rates, warn experts.

A study was conducted where experts looked at the body mass index (BMI) of 812 patients who were either discharged or succumbed to coronavirus infection. It was found that among 812 people, 70 per cent of people were obese. And among the number of people who died of COVID-19, 82 per cent were obese.

The length of the hospital stay of obese people was also found to be longer as compared to people with normal body mass index.

This happens because people who are obese have lower oxygenation capacity and as COVID infection affects the lungs and causes a decline in oxygen saturation, the complications increase.

Obese people have weaker respiratory muscles, lower lung volumes and increased resistance in their airways, which makes them vulnerable to experiencing complicated symptoms.

Not just this, obesity increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, heart disease and certain types of cancers. So, if you are overweight, it's important for you to start working towards shedding those extra kilos.

The good news is there are various ways that can help you lose weight. 

Five easy ways that can help you lose weight:

01/ ​Eat a healthy and balanced diet

Eating a well balanced and nutritious diet is of prime importance to maintain your immunity and lose weight successfully. Include whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, grains and seeds. Limit the intake of fatty foods, processed foods, baked foods and processed meat.

02/ ​Drink plenty of water

A lot of times thirst is mistaken for hunger, which makes one overeat. So if you have just had your meal and you again feel hungry, try having a glass of water first before reaching out for a snack. Having adequate water can help one lose weight and belly fat.

Studies have shown that drinking half a litre of water before having meals can help dieters consume lesser calories and lose 44 per cent more weight than those who do not drink water before meals.

Drinking water helps boost metabolism, which helps one burn more calories.

03/ ​Have green tea

Green tea is one of the healthiest drinks as it's packed with antioxidants, which helps the body in burning fat. Not one but multiple studies have shown that green tea supports weight loss.

04/ ​Limit your intake of refined sugar

Too much consumption of added sugar is linked with increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. To maintain a healthy weight, limit your intake of processed sugar.

05/ ​Exercise regularly

No doubt what you eat plays a major role in your weight loss journey but exercise also has an important role to play. Regular physical activity boosts metabolism and helps the body burn more calories.

You can start by brisk walking, climbing stairs, dancing and running. Regular physical activity helps improve mental as well as physical health.

from LifeStyle