Reduced Growth Hormone In Obesity Increases Risk of Heart Disease

Abnormal blood fats are leading risk factors of cardiovascular disease. In 1948, the classic Framingham study linked high cholesterol with heart attack. Since then, the concept of abnormal blood fats included high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is the Count Dracula of blood fats. Some LDLs are more dangerous than others. Small, compact LDL is particularly dangerous for promoting coronary artery disease. A Harvard University study showed that obesity reduced growth hormone, which promoted the development of smaller, more compact LDL and triggered heart disease. (Clinical Endocrinology, published online)