http://www.cardiab.com/content/pdf/1475-2840-8-23.pdf
Abstract
Postprandial hyperglycemia is characterized by hyperglycemic spikes that induce endothelial
dysfunction, inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress, which may lead to progression of
atherosclerosis and occurrence of cardiovascular events. Emerging data indicate that postprandial
hyperglycemia or even impaired glucose tolerance may predispose to progression of
atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. There is evidence that postprandial hyperglycemia, but
not fasting hyperglycemia, independently predicts the occurrence of cardiovascular events. We
proposed a concept of ‘vascular failure’ as a comprehensive syndrome of vascular dysfunction
extending from risk factors to advanced atherosclerotic disease. Postprandial hyperglycemia is
therefore one of the very important pathophysiological states contributing to vascular failure.
Accordingly, controlling postprandial hyperglycemia should be the focus of future clinical
investigation as a potential target for preventing vascular failure.