Diabetes increases heart risk
Diabetes is when the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood is higher than normal. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than people without diabetes. This is because diabetes accelerates atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries by fatty deposits) and increases the risk of blood clots forming.
How do I know if I have diabetes?
A simple blood test will show if your blood glucose is too high. If your blood glucose is elevated, your doctor will organise further testing to determine an accurate diabetes status. Also see: What is diabetes?
How can I keep my blood sugar within an acceptable range?
- Follow a heart-healthy dietary pattern – reduce foods with added sugars and white flour bakery items. Choose breads and cereals with a high fibre content.
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Do regular moderate physical activity.
- Check your blood sugars regularly as advised by your doctor, nurse or healthcare professional.
- Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.
If you have diabetes, it is very important to have your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked regularly and aim to keep them well controlled.
If your cardiovascular risk is very high, your doctor will discuss drug treatment options as well as lifestyle advice with you. Most people who have diabetes will need to take medication for life. Also see: Cardiovascular risk and diabetes
Have regular check ups
Each year, take time to review your health with your doctor or nurse. GPs offer free annual diabetes “get checked” visits for diabetes patients.
Check out other risk factors
See the links below for more information on tackling the individual risk factors you may need to address to have a healthy heart and cardiovascular system, remembering that they all work together to affect your risk level.
Also see: Know Your Numbers Heart Age Calculator
Do you need a heart risk assessment?
Original material provided by the Heart Foundation of New Zealand and the New Zealand Guidelines Group, March 2010. Edited by everybody, February 2011.
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