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PHILADELPHIA (November 14, 2024) – A new editorial – published in Nature – suggests that frequent fluctuations in diet, commonly known as "yo-yo dieting," can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The authors, from the University of Pennsylvania Schools of Nursing and Medicine, describe how cycling between high-fat and low-fat diets in mice led to a substantial acceleration of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in arteries.
The authors assessed the effects of intermittent dieting on immune system responses and their impact on heart health. They discovered that yo-yo dieting can disrupt the body's immune system, leading to increased inflammation and the development of atherosclerotic plaques.
"These findings provide compelling evidence that the way we eat can have a profound impact on our cardiovascular health," said co-author Kate Townsend Creasy, PhD, Assistant Professor of Nutrition Science in Penn Nursing’s Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences. "While previous research has linked diet to heart disease, our editorial highlights the specific dangers of yo-yo dieting and the underlying mechanisms involved."
The study's authors suggest that the intermittent nature of yo-yo dieting may disrupt the body's ability to maintain a healthy balance of immune cells, leading to chronic inflammation and increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
"While more research is needed to fully understand the implications of these findings for humans, these results are provocative and consistent with the concept that yo-yo dieting may be unhealthy," said co-author Daniel J Rader, MD, Professor of Medicine and Genetics at the Perelman School of Medicine. "Maintaining a consistent, healthy diet is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health."
The researchers hope that their article will encourage individuals to adopt a more sustainable approach to weight management and prioritize heart health through a balanced and consistent diet.
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About the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is one of the world’s leading schools of nursing. For the ninth year in a row, it is ranked the #1 nursing school in the world by QS University. Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is among the top ranked programs in the nation according to the 2025 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings. Our School also consistently ranks highly in the U.S. News & World Report annual list of best graduate schools and is ranked as one of the top schools of nursing in funding from the National Institutes of Health. Penn Nursing prepares nurse scientists and nurse leaders to meet the health needs of a global society through innovation in research, education, and practice. Follow Penn Nursing on: Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, & Instagram.
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