Insulin is an important hormone the body needs to regulate blood glucose. When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make or properly use insulin, which can lead to high blood glucose levels. High glucose may affect various organs and systems in the body leading to complications. People who live with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease compared to those who don’t have diabetes, making it crucial to monitor heart health.
How Does It Affect Your Heart?
When diabetes isn’t managed well, excessive glucose in the blood can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. According to the American Diabetes Association, heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for those living with diabetes, accounting for two-thirds of deaths in people living with diabetes.
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Living With Diabetes
Learn about the basics of diabetes, and get tips on how meal planning, exercise, proper medication and coping strategies can help you live well.
The longer someone lives with diabetes, the more likely they are to have heart disease or a condition that raises their risk for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obesity. You can reduce your risk of developing heart disease by following these healthy lifestyle habits:
- Attend diabetes education classes. With the guidance of diabetes educators and health professionals, you can learn how to manage your diabetes.
- Eat a balanced diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. A balanced diet will make managing blood glucose levels a bit easier.
- Exercise regularly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
- Follow the script. Be sure to take your medications and insulin as directed by your doctor.
- Get quality sleep. It’s important to get at least six to eight hours of restful sleep every night. Plenty of sleep can help reduce stress hormones and help you feel your best.
- Know your numbers. Use a log or chart to keep track of significant numbers, such as your A1C, blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol.
- Manage your stress. Find coping skills - to manage stress and keep your mental health in check.
If you have diabetes and want to maintain good heart health, talk with your primary care doctor and a diabetes educator. Find a Meritas Health doctor who can help you manage your diabetes and reduce your risk of heart disease.
