Why is cardiovascular health especially important in diabetes?

Diabetes is a leading cause of preventable CVD.¹ In fact, around 30% of people with diabetes are also diagnosed with CVD.² The reason that people with diabetes are at increased risk of developing CVD is because prolonged high blood sugar levels cause damage to blood vessels.² This damage promotes the build-up of fatty deposits known as plaques.² These plaques may restrict blood flow within your arteries and heart or rupture and cause a blockage.² These events may lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke.² Therefore, it is important to understand how to best manage your risk factors to minimise the risk of a cardiovascular event.

Increased Risk of Heart Disease

Diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease in several ways. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Additionally, people with diabetes often have other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and obesity.

Importance of Heart-Healthy Habits

Adopting heart-healthy habits is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. Here are some key strategies:

• Balanced Diet
  A heart-healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
• Regular Exercise
  Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Strength training exercises are also beneficial for heart health.
• Weight Management
  Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease. Even a small amount of weight loss can significantly improve heart health and blood sugar control.
• Quit Smoking
  Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease. If you smoke, seek help to quit.

Routine Monitoring and Management

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar is essential for preventing heart disease in people with diabetes. Here are some tips for effective management:

• Monitor Blood Pressure
  Keep track of your blood pressure and work with your healthcare provider to maintain it within a healthy range.
• Check Cholesterol Levels
  Regularly check your cholesterol levels and take steps to manage them, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet and taking prescribed medications.
• Maintain Blood Sugar Levels
   Consistently monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your diabetes management plan to keep them within the target range.

The connection between diabetes and heart disease is significant, but with proper management, the risk can be reduced. Adopting heart-healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine monitoring, can help manage both diabetes and heart disease effectively. Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan and take proactive steps to protect your heart health.

References:
^1. Baker Heart and Diabetes institute (2018). The dark heart of type 2 diabetes. Available from: https://baker.edu.au/impact/advocacy/dark-heart-diabetes. Accessed: August 2023.
^2. Heart Foundation. Diabetes and heart disease. Available at: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/bundles/your-heart/diabetes-and-heart-disease. Accessed: August 2023