BHF - Obesity a major threat to heart health

16 May 2013 11:50 PM

Having too much body fat makes arteries become stiff after middle age, a new study we co-funded has revealed.

Findings show that in young people blood vessels appear to be able to compensate for the effects of obesity. But after middle age, this adaptability is lost and arteries become progressively stiffer as body fat rises – potentially increasing the risk of dying from heart and circulatory disease.

Maureen Talbot, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: “It’s well established that obesity puts you at greater risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. This research probes some of the reasons behind that association and finds age could play it’s part.

“It’s an interesting discovery which needs more investigation. Beyond that it should serve as a reminder that obesity is a major threat to heart health and everyone should try to achieve, and then maintain, a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.”

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