Flu Shots Not as Effective for the Obese

Your parents probably taught you the importance of keeping up with your vaccines. Just like any other health conscious person, you head to the doctor’s office for a flu shot and go away feeling like you’re protected against the disease. Sadly, new research is showing that those of us who struggle with obesity issues may not have the same protection as those with a healthy weight. According to studies, obese people that get the flu shot have a large decrease in antibodies compared to those who are a healthy weight. Because flu shots can be ineffective or less effective for those who have weight problems, doctors are suggesting that obese patients receive a flu shot twice a year. These new findings indicate a high health risk for overweight patients, and many physicians say they may have to start implementing additional strategies to protect obese patients against the flu.

In addition, research is also showing that obese people are more likely to contract the flu, and are candidates for serious illness if they do develop the disease. Those who are overweight often have lower immune systems, making it hard for their bodies to fight off life-threatening conditions and infections.

If you are overweight and want to protect your health this season, then it may be time to speak with a specialist for medical weight management in Baton Rouge. Trained professionals and physicians will be able to help you learn how to better manage your weight, giving you a fighting chance against harmful and even deadly illnesses like the flu.

The flu can be a serious, life-threatening disease. To best protect yourself from the condition, start working toward losing weight and engage in a healthier lifestyle.