Endothelial function in the post-prandial state.

In recent years the endothelium has emerged as an important protective barrier against the development of atherosclerosis. Endothelial dysfunction, often characterised by impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation, is generally considered to be an early marker of cardiovascular disease. Recently, it has been noted that the post-prandial state is associated with impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Since man lives in a post-prandial state most of the day, prolonged exposure to dietary factors which impair endothelial function or delayed post-prandial recovery of the endothelium could negatively affect the cardiovascular risk profile. This review will focus on post-prandial endothelial function characterised by endothelium-dependent changes in vasomotion.