Diabetes & heart health: Cardiologist explains why you must preserve both

New Delhi: The link between diabetes and heart disease is undeniable, with those managing diabetes nearly twice as likely to experience cardiovascular complications compared to others. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a primary complication of diabetes, with heart attacks, strokes, and related conditions frequently arising from prolonged high blood sugar levels. Damage to blood vessels and nerves, specifically those linked to the heart, is one of the leading causes of CVD in people with diabetes. Addressing this dual risk is crucial to ensuring long-term health for individuals with diabetes.

Dr Ravindranath Reddy D R, HOD & Sr Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri Bengaluru, explained why preserving heart health is just as important as managing diabetes.

Why Diabetes Raises Heart Risks

In type 2 diabetes, the body either becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it, resulting in chronically high blood glucose levels. Over time, this excessive blood sugar damages blood vessels, leading to fatty deposits that narrow the arteries—a condition known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis increases the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) and other heart-related complications. Diabetes also heightens risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol, inflammation, and oxidative stress, which together can create a cascade of damage to the cardiovascular system.

Essential Tips to Protect Both Heart and Pancreas

1. Control Blood Sugar Levels: Effectively managing blood sugar levels is the cornerstone of reducing cardiovascular risks in diabetes. Regular monitoring, careful adherence to medications, and lifestyle adjustments are critical. Many patients benefit from continuous glucose monitoring systems that allow for better daily management and timely adjustments.
2. Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet: Diet plays a significant role in managing both blood sugar and heart health. A Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil and nuts can help. Avoiding foods high in refined sugars and saturated fats is crucial, as these contribute to both high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels, increasing heart disease risk.
3. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve insulin sensitivity, manage blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly, such as brisk walking or swimming, alongside strength training twice a week to build muscle and further improve metabolic health.
4. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels: High blood pressure and cholesterol levels put additional strain on the heart and increase the likelihood of cardiovascular events. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor these levels and make medication adjustments, if needed, are essential steps for long-term heart health.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the load on both the pancreas and heart. Research suggests that losing even a small percentage of body weight can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood pressure. Consulting a dietitian or joining a structured weight-loss program may offer additional support.
6. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake: Smoking is a major risk factor for both diabetes and heart disease. It increases blood pressure, damages blood vessels, and contributes to insulin resistance, worsening complications. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake are some of the most impactful lifestyle changes you can make. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to blood sugar spikes and increased triglyceride levels, heightening cardiovascular risk.
7. Manage Stress for Better Heart and Blood Sugar Control: Chronic stress can raise both blood sugar and blood pressure levels, complicating heart and diabetes management. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature can help reduce stress. Seeking support from a therapist or joining diabetes support groups can also alleviate stress, which may positively affect blood sugar and heart health.

Conclusion

Effectively managing diabetes involves more than just controlling blood sugar; it requires a comprehensive approach to protect heart health. By focusing on diet, exercise, stress reduction, and maintaining regular check-ups, individuals can help prevent severe cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes. Working closely with healthcare providers, particularly cardiologists, can ensure that all risk factors are monitored and managed effectively, supporting a healthier future for both the heart and pancreas.