Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases globally. It affects millions of people worldwide, and if not well managed, it can lead to complications such as heart disease.

Individuals with diabetes are two to three times more likely to have heart disease than those without diabetes. Fortunately, numerous powerful substances can help safeguard the hearts of diabetics.

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. They can be found in fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, as well as in flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the arteries, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. A study of over 20,000 adults with diabetes found that those who consumed more omega-3 fatty acids had a lower risk of heart disease than those who consumed less.

2. Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It is found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

Magnesium can help to lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation, both of which are risk factors for heart disease. One study found that for every 100mg increase in magnesium intake, there was a 22% lower risk of heart disease among people with diabetes.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone that is essential for bone health as well as many other functions in the body. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight, but it can also be found in foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods.

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. A study found that people with diabetes who had higher levels of vitamin D had a lower risk of heart disease than those with lower levels.

4. Fiber

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that is not digested by the body. It is found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.

Fiber can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol levels, both of which are important for heart health. One study found that people with diabetes who consumed more fiber had a lower risk of heart disease than those who consumed less.

5. Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is an antioxidant that is produced naturally in the body. It is also found in some foods such as fatty fish and organ meats. CoQ10 can help to improve heart function and reduce inflammation in people with diabetes.

A study of over 400 people with diabetes found that those who took a CoQ10 supplement had improved heart function and reduced inflammation compared to those who did not take the supplement.

6. Curcumin

Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been shown to improve heart health in people with diabetes.

A study found that people with diabetes who took a curcumin supplement had improved heart function and reduced inflammation compared to those who did not take the supplement.

7. Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is naturally produced in the body. It can also be found in foods such as spinach, broccoli, and organ meats.

Alpha-lipoic acid can help to lower blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation in people with diabetes, both of which are important for heart health. One study found that people with diabetes who took an alpha-lipoic acid supplement had reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels compared to those who did not take the supplement.

8. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a compound found in grapes, red wine, and berries. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to improve heart health in people with diabetes.

A study found that people with diabetes who took a resveratrol supplement had improved blood sugar control and reduced inflammation compared to those who did not take the supplement.

9. Green Tea

Green tea is a popular beverage that is rich in antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants can help to improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, both of which are important for heart health.

One study found that people with diabetes who drank green tea had a lower risk of heart disease than those who did not drink green tea.

10. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is found in foods such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. It can help to improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in people with diabetes.

One study found that people with diabetes who took a vitamin E supplement had reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels compared to those who did not take the supplement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many powerful substances that can help safeguard the hearts of people with diabetes.

These substances include omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, vitamin D, fiber, CoQ10, curcumin, alpha-lipoic acid, resveratrol, green tea, and vitamin E. By incorporating these substances into their diets and taking supplements if necessary, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of heart disease and improve their overall health.