Heart Care for the Diabetic-Heart Healthy Living with Diabetes

Poorly controlled blood glucose levels due to diabetes increases the risk of the body's blood vessels narrowing, or becoming blocked. People with diabetes face a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). People with diabetes are more likely to be affected by heart disease and these people are said to have Diabetic Heart Disease. A diabetic patient can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by managing his diabetes effectively which involves making simple but effective changes in lifestyle and taking medications that has been prescribed to help keep the blood glucose levels, cholesterol and blood pressure under control. The ways to take care of the heart by diabetic patients are:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet: A high-fibre diet that is low in saturated fat can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and a small amount of unsaturated fat should be a part of a diet for a healthy heart.
• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise or physical activity improves the efficiency of the circulatory system, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels and also improving blood glucose levels. It also helps in weight loss, which in itself reduces the chances of developing high blood pressure.
• Control your weight: Combining regular exercise with a healthy diet helps to burn fat and lower the body weight to an ideal level.
• Avoid smoking: It is a major risk factor for heart disease as it causes atherosclerosis, like in patients with diabetes, which is why it's especially important for diabetics to avoid or quit smoking.