Did you know that a person with diabetes has the same risk for heart disease as someone who has already had a heart attack? People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke than people without the disease. Fortunately, you can decrease that risk by making certain lifestyle changes.

Diabetes alters your body functions and changes how hard your heart works by worsening the composition of fats in the blood, including bad cholesterol (LDL), good cholesterol (HDL), and triglycerides, and causing arteries to become thick and stiff. This hardening of the arteries can happen earlier in people with diabetes. The condition makes the heart work harder, affects blood pressure and circulation, and can lead to heart attack or stroke.

How Can the Risk of Heart Disease Be Reduced?

You can lower your risk by learning about your condition and becoming an active diabetes manager. Your steps include:

• Regular checkups with your health care team
• Active health management through diet and exercise
• Better control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels

Understanding Cholesterol’s Role in Heart Disease

When it comes to reducing your risk for heart disease, managing your cholesterol levels is essential. There are two types of cholesterol to monitor: bad cholesterol (LDL) and good cholesterol (HDL). You also will need to monitor your triglycerides.

Lowering LDL is your first line of defense, and you can achieve this goal by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Next, focus on increasing your HDL levels and managing your triglycerides. Do this the same way you manage bad cholesterol: through healthy diet and exercise. Groups such as the American Heart Association^®, American Diabetes Association^®, and National Cholesterol Education Program recommend reduction of dietary saturated and trans fats and cholesterol as a first step for improving blood cholesterol. These groups also recommend increasing or adding sources of soluble fiber and phytosterols, both of which are known to lower cholesterol levels. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medication might be necessary.

To lower your risk for cardiovascular disease, be proactive and work with your health care team. You might find that you’re effectively managing your diabetes at the same time.