Reducing Your Risk of Heart Disease When You Have Diabetes

Diabetes

Millions of Americans are affected by ]]>diabetes]]>, a serious, chronic condition associated with numerous health complications. Diabetes is easy to diagnose by testing blood sugar levels. Although there is no cure, early detection, appropriate treatment, education, and a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid or delay diabetes-related complications.

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

]]>CVD]]> is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and the primary reason for ]]>heart attacks]]>. It is also a common complication associated with diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), people with diabetes are 2-4 times more likely to have CVD than the general population. Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart attack compared to the general population.

Blood Glucose

High blood glucose levels can damage your heart and blood vessels and lead to CVD. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor and control your blood glucose levels.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a substance that is an important component of cell membranes as well as a building block necessary in the production of many hormones. However, abnormally high levels of cholesterol contribute to formation of fatty deposits (plaques) within the walls of blood vessels, which in turn lead to development of coronary artery disease. Cholesterol is transported through the bloodstream by high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). LDL is frequently called “bad cholesterol” as it promotes accumulation of cholesterol in the walls of your arteries. Diabetes may make the LDL particles more likely to stick to and damage artery walls. HDL cholesterol is sometimes referred to as "good" cholesterol. It helps clear excess cholesterol from your body. Its level is raised mostly by regular exercise.

A report by the American College of Physicians recommends that anyone with diabetes, who also has known CVD or risk factors for CVD, take medication, specifically statins, to control cholesterol, even if cholesterol levels are currently normal.

Blood Pressure

Narrow blood vessels are one reason for high blood pressure (eg, ]]>hypertension]]>). Because ]]>high blood pressure]]> can make some of the complications of diabetes worse, the American Diabetes Association recommends aggressive treatment of hypertension for people with diabetes.

The primary groups of medications recommended to treat high blood pressure in diabetics are angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-inhibitors) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) which may provide additional protection for the cardiovascular system and the kidneys beyond simply reducing the blood pressure.

Healthy Diet

Work with your doctor to devise an eating plan that you can follow. Include foods that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and high in fiber; consume salt and alcohol in moderation; choose fats that help lower cholesterol; and eat five servings of ]]>fruits and vegetables]]> every day. A ]]>healthy diet]]> can help manage your CVD risk by lowering your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels.

Physical Activity

Being physically active every day for 30 minutes or more will have broad health benefits. Find ways to incorporate extra movement into your day—walk briskly for 30 minutes, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park a little farther away from your destination than usual. Start slowly and build up your strength and endurance. Being physically active can be very enjoyable, and it’s good for your health!

Weight Loss

Eating a healthy diet, reducing your calorie intake, and increasing your physical activity will all help you lose weight if needed. Weight loss and increased activity can also increase your healthy HDLs.

No Smoking

If you are thinking about ]]>quitting]]>, there are many smoking cessation programs and support groups which can help you. The benefits of quitting are both immediate and long-lasting.