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A person living with diabetes has a high risk of developing heart disease because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that control the heart and blood vessels. According to scientists, over time, this damage can cause heart disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since 2020, the mortality rates from diabetes have been increasing between the ages of 30 and 70. About 47 per cent of 1.6 million deaths that occurred in the year 2021 were due to diabetes before the age of 70 years.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) claims that people with diabetes often tend to develop heart disease at a young age compared to those without diabetes. However, the good news is that the steps you take to manage diabetes can help lower your chance of developing heart disease or stroke.
Just as knowing your diabetes ABCs is essential to manage high blood sugar, these seven smart ways can help you prioritise your heart health while taking care of your diabetes:
Experts suggest that excess fat around your abdomen can increase your risk of developing heart disease. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to ward off heart disease. Losing 5 to 10% of your body weight can significantly improve your heart health while lowering your blood sugar levels.
Staying physically active is essential for your overall well-being. But with health conditions like diabetes, it is crucial to stay regularly active. At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week can improve your insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure, and also reduce body weight.
A person living with diabetes must focus on consuming whole grains, lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, including healthy fats consisting of nuts and foods prepared with olive oil. Apart from regular exercise, your diet matters a lot and following a clean diet plan can improve your health and manage diabetes.
Stress is one of the non-factor that triggers heart disease easily. It is also the worst enemy to regulate blood sugar levels. Therefore, practising breathing exercises can calm your mind and body to keep your health in good shape and order.
Regularly monitoring your glucose level is a good habit to be in track while trying to manage diabetes. This habit will allow you to know what step you must take next.
Another worst enemy to trigger heart disease and diabetes is smoking. Quitting this habit is non-negotiable when it comes to managing diabetes and protecting your heart health. When you stop smoking it can improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health.
Do not avoid your regular screening and tests advised by healthcare providers. Also, ensure not to replace prescribed medication by doctors with lifestyle changes because balancing both is an important part of managing diabetes.
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