What effect does excessive weight generally have on blood pressure?

Excessive weight can significantly contribute to high blood pressure, which is clinically known as hypertension. This relationship is primarily due to the increased body mass and volume, which require the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. The additional strain on the heart and blood vessels can lead to stiffening of the arteries and increased resistance in the circulatory system. As a result, this elevated resistance leads to higher blood pressure readings.

Additionally, excess weight is often associated with other health conditions such as insulin resistance and inflammation, both of which can further exacerbate blood pressure issues. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for cardiovascular health and for managing blood pressure effectively.