The connection between diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
High blood sugar/glucose levels: Diabetes can damage blood vessels and the nerves controlling them - sugar can leak out of the liver into the bloodstream and stay there. A blocked vessel can slow the blood from supplying oxygen to the heart thereby increasing the risk of heart diseases.
High cholesterol: Fats in the blood such as cholesterol and triglycerides tend to increase the risk of heart disease. They result in the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels causing blockages that lead to a heart attack or stroke.
High blood pressure: It is one of the most common causes for heart disease, especially for people with diabetes. Having both high blood pressure and diabetes can double the risk for cardiovascular health conditions.
Obesity: Being overweight along with an existing diabetes are high risk factors for heart diseases. Excess body weight or obesity also influences the blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels.
Preventive tips for lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke, and being healthy
Keep your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure at healthy levels.
Quit smoking - both firsthand and secondhand smoke are harmful for your overall health. It adds to your cardiovascular disease risk.
Keep a check on your diet. Consume foods that have high fiber, and avoid foods that have saturated fat, trans-fat and too much salt. Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low fat dairy.
Exercise - an active life is good for your health and also to control diabetes, body weight, and lower your risk for heart diseases.
Watch and track your health status regularly with heart health checkups. Opt for a full body checkup that includes tests that checks for your blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels, along with detailed heart health screenings.
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