High sugar levels come at a cost to health

New research suggests that more sugar in the body could damage the elastic proteins that help the body breathe and pump blood.

Researchers have discovered that a certain type of protein found in organs that repeatedly stretch and retract, such as the heart and lungs, is the source for a electrical property that could help build healthy connective tissues.

However, when exposed to sugar, some of the proteins no longer are able to perform their function.

The findings could have health implications for diabetics, who have high blood glucose levels.