The Irish Heart Foundation has recently called upon the government to address the growing concern of obesity in Ireland. According to healthcare professionals from the Health Service Executive (HSE), emerging evidence suggests that obesity may significantly contribute to the severity of Covid-19 symptoms.
Staggering Numbers: What the Data Says
A concerning 23% of adults in Ireland are categorized as obese, according to recent statistics from HSE. This has led to calls for the Irish government to emulate some of the United Kingdom’s proactive health measures. These include:
- Displaying calorie counts on restaurant menus
- Banning ‘buy one get one free deals on unhealthy food items
- Limiting TV advertisements for junk food to after 9 pm
Pushing for More: What Advocates Want
The Irish Heart Foundation advocates for even more stringent measures, such as:
- Mandatory reformulation of unhealthy food and beverages
- Extending the sugar tax to confectionery goods as well
Given the potential link between obesity and Covid-19 severity, these measures could be life-saving.
Individual Actions: The Power of Cardio
According to the Irish Heart Foundation, one of the best ways to protect yourself is to engage in regular cardio or aerobic exercise. Activities that raise and sustain your heart rate — like aerobics, running, Zumba, dance fitness, tennis, or hiking—can significantly affect cardiovascular health.
Though yoga and Pilates offer numerous health benefits, they don’t provide the type of cardiovascular exercise essential for improving heart health.
Your Plate, Your Choice
In addition to physical exercise, it’s crucial to consider diet. A balanced, nutritious diet and reduced sugar intake can also be immensely beneficial in maintaining a healthy heart.
Take the Next Step
If you want to boost your heart health while enjoying a fun, engaging activity, consider signing up for our online dance fitness classes.
For a limited time, we’re offering a 14-day free trial.
About the Author
Lily is a group fitness instructor, licensed Zumba® instructor, certified nutritionist, health coach and co-founder of Dance and Health.
She has been struggling with her weight since early childhood. She was bullied as a teenager, and that’s when her long-lasting yo-yo dieting journey started.
It continued until her twenties, when she finally decided to change and stop following unhealthy weight-loss plans.
She’s passionate about nutrition and educating others about the simplicity of health and well-being.
She firmly believes that physical and mental health is the cornerstone of succeeding in any area, and she loves helping people achieve a more joyful and healthier life.