Eating Out Is Linked To High Blood Pressure For Young People

High blood pressure is an issue usually associated with middle age, but a new study of college students shows that young people, especially those who eat out, should really watch out for heart problems.

The study, published in the American Journal of Hypertension, found that pre-hypertension conditions (which can later lead to serious cardiovascular problems) were found in 27 percent of the 500 students surveyed (all of whom were college students in Singapore), and 38 percent of the students ate at least 12 meals a week away from home, suggesting a link between eating out and high blood pressure. Those with pre-hypertension were also more likely to be smokers and have low physical activity levels.

Even more alarmingly, researchers found that just one meal out per week could raise hypertension risk by six percent.

"Our research highlights lifestyle factors associated with pre-hypertension and hypertension that are potentially modifiable, and would be applicable to young adults globally, especially those of Asian descent," researcher and professor Tazeen Jafar said in a statement.