One of the most common complications of obesity is hypertension, or high blood pressure. Around 30% of individuals who are at least 30 lbs. overweight have mildly elevated blood pressure. These individuals should first be treated with dietary methods to attempt to bring their weight down to normal ranges. The majority of people who normalize their weight and avoid excess salt can avoid being on blood pressure medications.
	If you are overweight, particularly if most of your fat is located around your waist and abdomen (the so-called "apple-shaped figure") chances are very high that you have high cholesterol, dyslipidemia or high blood pressure - three of the risk factors for heart attack or stroke. Anyone with these conditions should be under medical supervision. Weight loss and prevention of weight regain are an essential part of treatment. In most cases, even a modest weight loss (5-10%) can result in dramatic improvement.