Health Outcomes

"If left unchecked, improper dietary fat consumption can lead down a path to severe health problems. An increased level of lipids, triglycerides, and cholesterol in the blood is called hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia is inclusive of several conditions but more commonly refers to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. When blood lipid levels are high, any number of adverse health problems may ensue. Cardiovascular disease encompasses a variety of problems, many of which are related to the process of atherosclerosis. Over time the arteries thicken and harden with plaque buildup, causing restricted or at times low or no blood flow to selected areas of the body. A heart attack happens when blood flow to a section of the heart is cut off due to a blood clot. Ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke in the United States, occurs when a blood vessel in the brain or leading to the brain becomes blocked, again usually from a blood clot. Congestive heart failure indicates that the heart is not pumping blood as well as it should. Arrhythmia is an abnormal rhythm of the heart. Heart valve problems include stenosis, regurgitation, and mitral valve prolapse. Obesity is defined as the excessive accumulation of body fat and has been linked to increased risks of developing diabetes and heart disease. Reducing the type and amount of carbohydrates and sugar consumed daily, limiting saturated fats and trans fats, increasing physical activity, and eating fewer calories are important in the fight against obesity."