Researchers Find Weight Gain Can Damage Cells

8/27/2010

New research is driving home the importance of adopting healthy eating habits as early as possible in life.

In a recent announcement, the Mayo Clinic reported that healthy young people are at risk of endothelial cell dysfunction if they gain just nine pounds of fat in their abdomen. The clinic added that these are cells which line the blood vessels and control their ability to expand and contract.

"Endothelial dysfunction has long been associated with an increased risk for coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events. Gaining a few pounds in college, on a cruise, or over the holidays is considered harmless, but it can have cardiovascular implications, especially if the weight is gained in the abdomen," said Dr. Virend Somers of the Mayo Clinic.

The researchers found that even those with healthy blood pressure levels were prone to endothelial dysfunction and the impaired blood flow that comes with it.

From a health insurance perspective, these considerations are important. After all, extra weight contributes to a wide range of medical problems, some of which cantrigger higher premiums.

ShareThis