Take belly fat, for example. Belly fat is not simply a layer of goo under the skin in your tummy. Belly fat actually surrounds and cocoons your internal organs, making it more difficult for them to work. An increased accumulation of belly fat can move your organs around and cause problems, such as pushing organs in to your diaphragm and your diaphragm in to your lungs, making it more difficult to breathe.
Fat can also surround blood vessels and arteries. Fat around your vessel makes it difficult for your heart to pump blood and therefore stresses your heart. And if fat is around your vessels, you can guarantee it is in your vessels as well. A heart attack or stroke is almost inevitable once this occurs. Heart attacks and strokes can kill you or leave you severely debilitated. You are also putting yourself at a higher risk for diabetes.
The best way to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight is through exercise and diet. Even if you are considered a healthy weight, a healthy diet can be imperative to a healthy lifestyle. If you exercise regularly but still consume an excess of foods high in fat, you are putting yourself at risk for heart disease. Heart disease can happen to anyone who does not take care of themselves with proper diet, regardless of weight.
Have heart, as it is rarely too late to change lifestyle habits in order to lead a healthy lifestyle. Small changes in everyday life can make a big difference. Cut back on fast food, cut butter, salt and saturated fats out of your diet and if you are not ready to undertake an intense exercise regime, then work exercise in to your everyday life in small ways. Try parking further away from the store so you have to walk a greater distance or take the stairs instead of the elevator.