February is American Heart Month, a time to spotlight one of the most important aspects of lifelong health—your heart. At Nicholson Clinic, we’re committed to helping our community understand the connection between healthy weight, heart health, and overall well-being.
Why Heart Health Matters
Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States for both men and women, responsible for roughly 1 in 4 deaths each year. Excess body weight and obesity contribute directly to heart disease and related complications by impacting the heart, blood vessels, and other key organs.
Obesity & Heart Risk: What the Facts Say
The Obesity and Heart Disease Fact Sheet from the Obesity Action Coalition highlights how obesity increases risk:
- Obesity itself is an independent risk factor for heart and blood vessel disease—even without other conditions present.
- Excess fat can change how the heart functions and trigger chronic inflammation, which strains the cardiovascular system.
- Just gaining 22 pounds might raise blood pressure modestly—but can increase heart disease risk by about 12%.
- Obesity contributes to high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome, all of which further elevate heart disease risk.
- Risk factors linked with obesity can begin early—even in childhood—making prevention and healthy habits essential at every age.
These findings reinforce that maintaining a healthy weight is more than a number on the scale—it’s an investment in a stronger, longer life.
How Bariatric Surgery Can Help
For individuals meeting clinical criteria for surgical weight loss, bariatric surgery can be a transformative tool. When combined with lifelong lifestyle changes, bariatric procedures often lead to significant and sustained weight loss, improvements in obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, and reductions in heart disease risk factors. By lowering the strain on the heart and improving metabolic function, surgery can be an effective part of a comprehensive heart-health strategy under proper medical supervision.
If you’re considering whether bariatric surgery might be right for your heart and health goals, our experienced team is here to walk you through the options and what to expect.
February Step Challenge: Move More for Your Heart!
This February, we’re challenging YOU to move more for your heart!
- Goal: 10,000 steps a day
- Why: Walking supports heart health, improves circulation, boosts energy, and reduces stress
Whether you’re just getting started or already active, every step counts toward a stronger, healthier heart.
Patients – you can participate in our step challenge in the Nicholson Clinic Facebook Support Group!
Not yet a member – request to join here!
How to participate:
- Track your steps with your phone, smartwatch, or fitness tracker
- Aim for 10,000 steps daily
- Share your progress—post a screenshot of your steps for the week and how many days you hit 10k
The person with the most days over 10k steps wins a special prize!
Pro Tips to Hit 10,000 Steps
- Take a 10-20 minute walk after meals
- Park farther away or take the stairs
- Walk while on phone calls
- Invite a friend, coworker, or family member to join you
Small Steps, Big Heart Health Wins
Small daily habits add up to big heart-healthy wins. If you have questions about exercise, weight loss, or heart health, our team at Nicholson Clinic is always here to support you.
Join our challenge and/or call us at 972-494-3100 if we can help! Your heart will thank you!
