Eating fatty comfort foods when stressed may have a more detrimental impact on our health than previously thought, according to a recent study conducted by researchers in the United Kingdom. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, found that consuming high-fat foods before experiencing stress can impair the function of the endothelium, the lining of our blood vessels.
The endothelium plays a crucial role in the constriction and relaxation of blood vessels, as well as the movement of fluids and molecules throughout the body’s tissues. When the endothelium is not functioning properly, it can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, clogged arteries, and high blood pressure.
Previous research has shown that stress can cause a temporary decline in endothelial function in healthy young adults. Additionally, individuals often turn to fatty and sugary foods as a means of coping with stress, which can further exacerbate the negative effects on blood vessels and endothelial function.
To investigate the potential interplay between stress and fat consumption, researchers recruited 21 healthy volunteers for their study. The participants were given a breakfast consisting of two butter croissants and then subjected to an eight-minute mental stress test, where they had to solve math problems mentally at an increasing pace. The researchers used a method called “flow-mediated dilatation” to measure blood flow through an artery in the participants’ arms, assessing their vascular function.
The results revealed that consuming fatty foods while experiencing stress led to a reduction in vascular function, compared to a reduction when participants consumed a low-fat meal during the testing. Even a reduction in vascular function has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the decline in vascular function persisted for up to 90 minutes after the stress test in those who had consumed the high-fat meal. The researchers also observed a reduction in oxygenated haemoglobin, a component of red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen, in the prefrontal cortex of participants who had consumed the high-fat meal.
Expert explained that consuming high-fat foods during times of stress may hinder the body’s healing process, particularly the functioning of the endothelium. This suggests that stress-eating such foods could have detrimental effects on the vascular health of young, otherwise healthy individuals.
The exact mechanisms by which fat consumption hinders post-stress recovery are not yet fully understood. However, increased levels of triglycerides and C-reactive protein following fat consumption may play a role. These substances could potentially cause direct injury to the vascular wall or indirectly contribute to endothelial dysfunction by elevating oxidative stress and stimulating vasoconstrictor and inflammatory markers, thereby reducing endothelium-derived nitric oxide and impairing endothelial function.
It is crucial to make healthier choices to protect our vascular health. Plant-based foods rich in bioactive compounds, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, have been shown to have positive effects on endothelial function. These foods are abundant in antioxidants and polyphenols, which possess anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties.
Certain foods have been specifically identified for their potential to improve endothelial dysfunction. Blueberries, beetroot, and plums, for example, have shown promising results. Polyphenol-rich drinks like green tea and pomegranate juice may also contribute to better endothelial function. Additionally, incorporating healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish, algae oil, nuts, and seeds, into our diets can have a protective effect on the vascular system. Furthermore, including probiotics through fermented foods or supplements can enhance gut microbiome diversity, which has been linked to improved endothelial function.
The study sheds light on the potential harmful effects of consuming fatty comfort foods when stressed. The findings highlight the importance of making healthier dietary choices, particularly during times of stress, to protect our vascular health. Incorporating plant-based foods rich in bioactive compounds, healthy fats, and probiotics into our diets can help improve endothelial function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
