[Postprandial lipemia induces endothelial dysfunction and higher insulin resistance in healthy subjects].

OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of postprandial lipemia on endothelial function, insulin resistance, and lipid profile in healthy subjects. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective', interventional study in 14 healthy young men aged 18-25 years who were given a high-fat meal. Endothelial function was measured using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in the brachial artery, flow velocity, mean arterial pressure and serum nitrite/nitrate levels (NO(2)/NO(3)). Glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were also tested. Insulin resistance was determined by calculating the HOMA-IR index (Homeostatic Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance). RESULTS Baseline FMD was 5.9 ± 1.1%. Postprandial lipemia reduced endothelial function by approximately 50% in the first (3.3 ± 0.5%, p=0.03) and second (3.3 ± 0.4%, p=0.04) moment respectively. This finding was associated to an increased flow rate in the brachial artery and lower NO(2)/NO(3) levels (p<0.05). Higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels were found 1h and 2h postprandial (p<0.05). HOMA-IR was significantly increased 1h and 2h postprandial (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Postprandial lipemia causes changes in circulating lipid profile and induces endothelial dysfunction and higher insulin resistance.