Too much insulin over time makes blood vessels stiff and unable to relax, making high blood pressure worse.
Scientific Claim
Chronic insulin resistance impairs endothelial function by reducing nitric oxide production, leading to arterial stiffness and increased vascular resistance.
Original Statement
“What makes this worse is that insulin resistance also damages the endothelium. High insulin levels over time reduce nitric oxide production, which means vessels lose their ability to relax. So you end up with a system where blood volume is being artificially expanded through sodium retention and simultaneously vascular resistance is climbing because the arteries can't dilate properly.”
Context Details
Domain
cardiology
Population
human
Subject
chronic insulin resistance
Action
impairs
Target
endothelial function leading to arterial stiffness
Intervention Details
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (2)
This study shows that a specific genetic variant can impair the body's ability to produce nitric oxide in response to insulin, which can lead to blood vessel problems.
This study found that blocking a certain receptor can improve blood vessel function in animals with insulin resistance by increasing nitric oxide production.
Contradicting (2)
This study found that a combination of exercises can improve insulin sensitivity, blood vessel function, and sleep quality in older adults with excess weight.
Comparison of the Effect of Aerobic Exercise Versus Yoga on Endothelial Function and Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
This study found that exercise, whether aerobic or yoga, can improve blood vessel function and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.