Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people with diabetes. According to the American Heart Association, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die from heart disease than those without diabetes.

It is essential for people with diabetes to take preventative measures to decrease their risk of developing heart disease. To help prevent heart disease in people with diabetes, here are ten strategies to consider:.

1. Control Blood Sugar Levels

The most important factor in preventing heart disease in people with diabetes is to keep blood sugar levels under control. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, leading to a build-up of plaque in the arteries.

This can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Working with a healthcare provider to maintain recommended blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

For people with diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight is key to preventing heart disease. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for preventing heart disease.

3. Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

Following a heart-healthy diet can help people with diabetes prevent heart disease. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Reducing salt, sugar, and saturated and trans fats can help lower the risk of heart disease.

4. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help people with diabetes lower their risk of heart disease. Exercise helps to control blood sugar levels, reduce high blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.

Experts suggest that people with diabetes engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, biking, or swimming.

5. Manage Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease in people with diabetes. It’s essential to maintain healthy blood pressure levels through lifestyle changes, such as exercise, following a healthy diet, and managing stress.

For some people, medication may also be necessary to control blood pressure levels.

6. Lower Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. Lowering cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet and exercising regularly, is crucial.

For some people, medication may also be necessary to control cholesterol levels.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Smoking cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapy, and the support of family, friends, and healthcare providers can help people quit smoking.

8. Reduce Stress

Stress can increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels, putting people with diabetes at risk for heart disease. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga, and counseling can help lower the risk of heart disease.

9. Sleep Well

Poor sleep can increase the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. It’s essential to get enough restful sleep every night to help keep risk factors for heart disease under control.

Experts suggest that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

10. Stay Up-To-Date with Health Screenings

Regular health screenings can help people with diabetes stay on top of their health and prevent heart disease.

Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels can help catch and treat problems early before they develop into serious health issues.