Connection between elevated blood sugar levels and risk of heart attack or stroke
In a groundbreaking study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, researchers have highlighted the top lifestyle changes that can help type 2 diabetes patients reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke. These changes, if adopted consistently, can significantly lower the high risk that 93% of diabetes patients currently face.
The study, which followed nearly 375,000 people with blood sugar problems, revealed that the top five lifestyle changes for type 2 diabetes patients are:
- Weight Management: Losing even a modest amount of weight (5-7% of body weight) can have a profound impact on diabetes patients. This weight loss can help restore blood sugar to a normal level and lower heart disease risk.
- Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, such as brisk walking, aerobic activities, or strength training. Exercise makes the heart less prone to arrhythmias, affects the sympathetic nervous system, lowers blood pressure, improves lipid profile, and glucose processing. Exercise is beneficial for heart and blood sugar health, regardless of weight loss.
- Healthy Diet: A Mediterranean diet, principally composed of oily fish, chicken and other poultry, fresh fruit and vegetables, legumes, fresh bread, pasta, and olive oil, is recommended. This diet, when supplemented with olive oil and/or nuts, can benefit diabetics in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Control: Managing these factors via lifestyle and medication as needed reduces strain on the heart and arteries, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke in diabetics.
- Avoid Smoking: Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke for type 2 diabetes patients.
Additional relevant points include drinking water instead of sugary drinks and managing stress, which can impact blood sugar and heart health. Limiting or completely avoiding alcohol is also recommended to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and heart health.
The study found that just 7% of type 2 diabetics were found to have only a moderate risk of having a heart attack or stroke over the next decade. The very high-risk level includes those with established cardiovascular disease, prior heart attack or stroke, other conditions like kidney impairment, or at least three cardiovascular risk factors.
The findings underscore the critical role these lifestyle changes play in the long-term care of type 2 diabetes, demonstrating durable benefits for preventing diabetes progression and cardiovascular complications over decades. Furthermore, 80% of strokes are preventable, making these lifestyle changes even more crucial for diabetes patients.
- The importance of weight management in diabetes care extends beyond reducing blood sugar levels, as it also significantly lowers the risk of heart disease.
- Incorporating regular fitness and exercise into one's routine is crucial for heart health, even for those who may not lose weight as a result.
- Following a Mediterranean diet, rich in healthy fats and nutrients, can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes for diabetes patients.
- Effective blood pressure and cholesterol management, through lifestyle and medication, is vital for the heart health of diabetes patients.
- Giving up smoking is a crucial step for type 2 diabetes patients, as it significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Drinking water instead of sugary drinks can contribute to better health and wellness for diabetes patients, as excessive sugar consumption can exacerbate health issues.
- Stress management is essential for maintaining both heart health and proper blood sugar levels.
- Moderation in alcohol consumption is important for diabetes patients, as alcohol can impact both blood sugar levels and heart health.
- Aging brings about unique health challenges for both men and women, making regular check-ups and adherence to good health practices all the more crucial.
- Proper skin care, mental health care, and gynecological care are all integral aspects of women's health, which is a critical consideration in diabetes management.
