The Earlier You Start, the Better
Atherosclerosis and the problems it causes get an early start in life. Cholesterol starts depositing in the arteries of Americans at an early age. A study in 2003 looked at the arteries of 17 and 18 year old being assessed for the Austrian army. The signs of atherosclerosis were already present in these young men. This study concluded that the development of atherosclerosis begins early in life.
This means that waiting until later in life to make lifestyle changes is not the best course of action. While it’s never too late to become healthy, living a long life of healthfulness is the best option.
Obese Children Show Signs Even Earlier
A more recent study presented to the American Heart Association showed that obese kids had arteries that looked like those of someone 30 years older. The researchers of this study noted the importance of exploring the effects of weight loss and healthier lifesyle decisions for these children.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_71522.html
These studies point to an important fact: heart disease is progressive. Since this is a long term issue it takes good choices every day to avoid atherosclerosis and its side effects of heart disease and stroke. Living healthfully from a a young age is a great way to avoid atherosclerosis. However, if you’ve waited a little longer, don’t feel like it’s too late. Healthy habits are a good idea of any age.