A surreal depiction of heart health risks associated with overweight and obesity.

Unveiling the Hidden Heart Risks: Why 'Healthy' Overweight Individuals Need to Pay Attention

Soraya Malik in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research reveals that even overweight and obese people with otherwise healthy metabolic markers face a significantly elevated risk of heart attack."

The perception of health often hinges on easily observable metrics. Normal blood pressure, healthy cholesterol levels, and stable blood sugar are often viewed as signs of good health. Yet, new research suggests that weight, specifically being overweight or obese, can introduce heart attack risks that exist independently of these other markers.

According to a groundbreaking study led by Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge, individuals classified as overweight or obese, but otherwise metabolically healthy, still face a significantly increased risk of heart attack. This revelation challenges conventional wisdom and underscores the importance of considering weight as a critical factor in cardiovascular health.

This article delves into the findings of this study, exploring the implications for individuals who might otherwise feel secure in their 'healthy' overweight status. We'll uncover the specific risks, discuss the nuances of metabolic health, and offer actionable strategies to mitigate potential dangers.

The Silent Threat: How Weight Impacts Heart Health Even When Other Markers Are Normal

A surreal depiction of heart health risks associated with overweight and obesity.

The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study tracked over half a million people across eight European countries for more than 12 years. Researchers meticulously analyzed participants' body mass index (BMI) alongside indicators of metabolic health, such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, HDL cholesterol, and waist circumference. They sought to determine how these factors correlated with the incidence of coronary heart disease.

The findings were startling: even among individuals who were metabolically healthy—meaning they had fewer than three of the metabolic risk factors mentioned above—being overweight or obese still significantly elevated their risk of heart attack. This suggests that excess weight exerts a unique strain on the cardiovascular system, independent of other health markers.

26% Increased Risk: Healthy but overweight individuals faced a 26% higher risk of coronary heart disease compared to healthy individuals of normal weight.
28% Higher Risk: The risk climbed even higher for those classified as obese but metabolically healthy, with a 28% increased risk.
Double the Risk: Those classified as unhealthy based on metabolic markers had more than double the risk of coronary heart disease, regardless of normal weight, overweight or obese.

These statistics highlight the urgent need to reassess how we perceive and manage weight, particularly in the context of cardiovascular health. The study underscores that being metabolically healthy does not negate the risks associated with excess weight. It's a wake-up call for individuals and healthcare providers alike.

Taking Control: Practical Steps to Reduce Your Risk

The study by Imperial College London serves as a reminder that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for long-term cardiovascular health, regardless of other metabolic markers. Individuals who are overweight or obese, even if they consider themselves healthy, should proactively manage their weight through diet, exercise, and regular check-ups. Consult with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan that addresses individual risk factors and promotes optimal heart health.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What does the research say about the risks of being overweight or obese even if you have normal health markers?

The study by Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge highlighted that even if you have normal blood pressure, healthy cholesterol levels, and stable blood sugar, being overweight or obese can still elevate your heart attack risk. The research found that individuals classified as overweight had a 26% higher risk of coronary heart disease compared to those of normal weight, even if they were metabolically healthy. For those classified as obese but metabolically healthy, the risk increased to 28%.

What does 'metabolic health' mean in this context, and why is it important?

Metabolic health refers to the presence of certain health markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and waist circumference. If you have fewer than three of these metabolic risk factors, you might be considered metabolically healthy. However, the findings of the study revealed that being overweight or obese poses a significant risk to cardiovascular health, irrespective of these markers. This means even if your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are within a healthy range, your weight can independently increase your risk of a heart attack.

What was the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study and what did it involve?

The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study tracked over half a million people across eight European countries for more than 12 years. Researchers analyzed participants' BMI along with blood pressure, blood sugar levels, HDL cholesterol, and waist circumference. The study aimed to determine how these factors correlated with the incidence of coronary heart disease.

What steps should someone who is overweight or obese, but seemingly healthy, take?

If you are overweight or obese, even if you have other healthy metabolic markers, you should focus on weight management. This includes adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and undergoing regular check-ups. Consulting with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan that addresses individual risk factors and promotes optimal heart health is also crucial.

Why is this research important, and what does it tell us about heart health?

The study emphasizes that being overweight or obese can increase the risk of heart attack independently of other health markers. This means that even if you appear healthy based on factors like blood pressure or cholesterol levels, your weight can still negatively impact your cardiovascular health. The findings challenge the conventional view that being metabolically healthy negates the risks associated with excess weight, highlighting the need for individuals and healthcare providers to reassess how weight is perceived and managed in the context of heart health.