Your heart may be at risk if you have diabetes
Parkland expert offers tips to lower your heart risk while managing blood sugar
Many people know that diabetes affects blood sugar, but fewer realize its strong link to heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke than adults without diabetes. Even those with prediabetes, a condition often driven by insulin resistance, face higher risks of heart disease and stroke than people with normal blood sugar.
“Diabetes and heart disease are closely connected because high blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time,” said Mary Beth Robinson, MS, RD/LD, CDCES, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist at Parkland Health. “This makes it easier for plaque to build up, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes.”
Experts often describe a blood sugar/blood pressure/cholesterol triangle, where each factor affects the others. High blood sugar can worsen cholesterol levels and blood pressure, while high blood pressure can make heart disease more likely in people with diabetes.
“Managing just one number isn’t enough,” Robinson said. “Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in check together gives your heart the best protection.”
Fortunately, small changes in daily habits can improve both blood sugar and heart health. Robinson recommends starting with simple food swaps.
- Add more fiber: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains slow blood sugar spikes and help lower cholesterol.
- Choose healthy fats: Olive oil, avocado, nuts, and fatty fish support heart health without spiking blood sugar.
- Reduce refined carbs and sugary drinks: These can worsen insulin resistance and elevate triglycerides (fat that your body stores to use as fuel later).
- Mind portion sizes: Eating smaller, balanced meals throughout the day helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
“Even modest changes, such as swapping soda for sparkling water or adding an extra serving of vegetables at dinner, can have an important impact,” Robinson said. “Consistency over time matters more than perfection.”
Parkland encourages anyone with diabetes, prediabetes or risk factors for heart disease to speak with their primary care provider about lifestyle strategies and regular screenings.
“Your heart and your blood sugar are connected in ways many people don’t realize,” Robinson said. “Taking steps to protect one is taking steps to protect the other.”
For resources on managing diabetes and reducing heart disease risk, visit www.parklanddiabetes.com.
For more information about Parkland services, visit www.parklandhealth.org.
Back