Heart disease and type 2 diabetes are chronic illnesses that are common in the United States of America. These two diseases are closely linked, as per clinical experts. Type 2 diabetes patients have greater chances of developing heart disease and a higher risk of stroke or heart attack. They are high-risk candidates for suffering from conditions like high cholesterol and high blood pressure that may trigger a stroke or heart disease. According to experts at Forbes, diabetes may lead to kidney or heart disease. However, reducing your blood sugar is very much possible. You can consider reversing the diagnosis by managing your diabetes well and lowering your sugar levels consistently.
We know that heart disease is serious, common, and the top reason behind the death of Americans, men and women alike. If you are a diabetes patient, you have a double likelihood of developing a stroke or heart disease, and often, at a tender age. However, you can minimize heart disease risk and boost heart health by embracing a few lifestyle modifications.
Reduce Your Risks
You can reduce the risk of a stroke or a heart attack by staying fit, and active. You may do regular exercises, for example, going for a daily walk of 30-min duration can be fruitful in lowering your risks. A few things to do, to reduce your heart attack risks are:
- Stick to your specified meal plan and watch your food intake. It is most effective in triggering weight loss.
- Quit smoking and avoid any undesirable exposure to harmful cigarette smoke.
- When you observe high blood sugar symptoms, seek an appointment with expert physicians. Have your medicines as prescribed by your physician
Tips to Manage Diabetes to Prevent Heart Disease
Adopt a few lifestyle changes to reduce heart disease risks or ensure your condition is stable and avoid worsening symptoms.
Stick to a Healthy Diet: Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid trans-fat and processed foods to the extent possible. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks. Consume less alcohol. Eating balanced meals helps. Consume healthy fats, fiber-rich foods, and lean proteins to manage blood sugar issues effectively. Fiber-rich foods are best for promoting fullness and keeping blood sugar levels consistent or steady. Remember that a plant-based protein, a fiber source, and healthy fat can assist in improving post-meal blood sugar levels.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: If you are obese or overweight, it pays to lose weight to reduce effectively your blood sugar and triglycerides. Even moderate weight loss may be helpful. A moderate weight loss ranging from 5 percent to 7 percent of your body weight means 10 pounds to just 14 pounds in the case of a 200-pound individual can be beneficial.
Be Physically More Active: If you are more physically active by doing regular exercises and walking, your body will become far more sensitive to the hormone called insulin. Insulin assists your body’s cells to absorb and utilize sugar for generating energy. Physical activity is best for reducing heart disease and curbing diabetes risks alike. You may consider indulging in moderate-intensity physical activities like brisk walking.
Conclusion: Focus on Having the Appropriate Medications
In the case of individuals with type 2 diabetes, doctors often recommend oral medication in conjugation with insulin. Today, a broad spectrum of medications is available that may help manage your condition and prevent heart health.