Researchers are already aware that consuming a diet high in fat can lead to heart disease – but now they know a little bit more about how this process works.

A study at the University of Cincinnati looked at high-fat diets and the effect they have on the tissue around human blood vessels.

First, in a laboratory study, the researchers found fat had the ability to inflame human fat cells, which in turn could cause the blood vessels to become inflamed and lead to clogged arteries.

Then, in an animal study, they discovered that feeding mice a high-fat diet for just two weeks was enough to provoke inflammation in the tissue around the arteries.

“These new findings suggest a direct link between poor dietary habits and inflammation of blood vessels, mediated by the fat cells surrounding the blood vessel wall,” commented lead author Dr. Neal Weintraub.

Earlier studies have linked inflammation to a higher risk of developing heart disease.

Oral chelation is one method some people use to help maintain healthy blood pressure and boost heart health.