COVID-19 & Obesity

It’s no secret that obesity is a health risk, but new research shows that the risk now extends to COVID-19. A recent study found that people with obesity who contracted the virus were twice as likely to land in the hospital, with a 74% higher likelihood of being admitted to intensive care. That’s bad news for people in Louisiana, where 36% of adults are obese.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are more prevalent in people who are overweight and these underlying conditions, along with a weakened immune system, can make this group even more vulnerable to the most severe effects of the virus. In addition, doctors warn that a vaccine may be less effective in people with obesity. The flu vaccine has a lower success rate in those with a body mass index (BMI) over 30.

The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your weight and your risk of more severe symptoms at the same time. Start with:

• Reading food labels and keeping track of your daily intake
• Adding more movement into your daily routine
• Getting rid of processed foods
• Stopping the snacks, especially late at night.

Our BRG dietitian Kristen West has more tips on how you can get back on track. Just click here.