Repeated blood sugar peaks stimulate systemic inflammation and insulin resistance that have negative impact on the endothelial layer of the blood vessels. Once the blood vessel walls become inflamed and damaged, they start accumulating the plaque that may burst, leading to ischemic stroke.
An extensive, 30-year long-term study conducted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health on the eating patterns of more than 100,000 people found that those who drank one or two soft drinks a day increased their risk of developing any form of heart disease by about 18 to 21 percent. Crucially, the data showed that the higher risk persisted even among those who engaged in physical activity and exercise.
The American Heart Association (AHA) issues a similar warning, that fluid sugar spikes directly contribute to the accumulation of visceral fat around vital organs and slowly weaken blood vessel walls, creating the exact arterial conditions that lead to restricted blood flow to the brain.
Disrupted sleep and the “blood pressure dip”
The other cardiovascular risk factor associated with our nighttime routine is the quality of sleep. Consuming caffeinated beverages or energy drinks, or even consuming alcohol before going to bed disrupts our sleep cycle and the deep sleep periods, adding more stress to the heart.
