Stress may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease by increasingblood pressuremaximal oxygen uptakeHDL cholesterolglucose toleranceQuestion 10

Stress may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease by increasing blood pressure. When we are stressed, our bodies produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol which increase heart rate and blood pressure. This puts more pressure on the heart and blood vessels, potentially leading to conditions like hypertension, heart attack, or stroke.

Maximal oxygen uptake, HDL cholesterol, and glucose tolerance are not directly increased by stress. However, stress can indirectly affect these factors. For example, stress can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as poor diet or lack of exercise, which can decrease maximal oxygen uptake, lower HDL cholesterol, and worsen glucose tolerance. These changes can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.