The experts have weighed in on this question and the answer is “Yes” – both directly and indirectly. Long term stress has been shown to directly increase the level of cortisol in the body, which is positively associated with the build-up of plaque within arteries. Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease – Health Encyclopedia – University of Rochester Medical Center Stress has also been shown to lead to negative lifestyle choices which are positively associated with cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, and premature death, including, depression, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, high blood pressure and overeating/obesity.
Your best bet to minimize these risks is what your Grandmother told you: A healthy diet, exercise and fresh air.
