Control Blood Sugar and Cholesterol to Protect Your Heart Health

The intense cold wave sweeping North India poses serious health risks, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. It is imperative that such high-risk individuals take special precautions to protect their heart health this season.

Diabetes has become increasingly common due to unhealthy lifestyles and food habits. Approximately 90% of diabetes cases worldwide are Type 2, directly linked to poor diet and physical inactivity. Diabetics face higher chances of developing cardiovascular diseases, as imbalanced blood sugar levels tend to increase blood pressure, raising the risk of heart attacks.

Diabetics must be vigilant about controlling blood sugar levels to maintain heart health. Here are some tips:

– Include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrients in your diet to regulate blood sugar.

– Monitor cholesterol levels regularly. High cholesterol escalates heart disease risk. Opt for a diet low in saturated fats.

– Exercise daily to control blood sugar spikes. This directly benefits your heart health.

– Eat fiber-rich foods like whole grains and fruits. Fiber stabilizes blood sugar and protects against heart disease.

– Consume omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and nuts. They improve heart health and manage diabetes.

– Avoid excessive salt, sugar, saturated fats, trans fats and processed foods.

Uncontrolled blood sugar damages blood vessels over time, increasing inflammation and restricting blood flow to the heart. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, elevating heart disease risk in diabetics.

Monitor your blood pressure diligently, as high BP over 140/90 mmHg can trigger heart attacks. Manage BP through diet, exercise, and medication. Protect your heart this winter by controlling underlying conditions like diabetes. Healthy lifestyle choices go a long way in keeping your heart strong.