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People with Type 2 diabetes, which is characterized by insulin resistance where the hormone insulin becomes less effective at lowering blood sugar levels, are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance is now recognized as an independent predictor for cardiovascular disease, and most Type 2 diabetics also have other risk markers such as:
- high blood fat levels such as LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- obesity
- decreased circulation
- high blood pressure
Insulin resistant pre-diabetics who present with additional risk factors for cardiovascular disease have been found to be just as at risk for heart attack. This means that taking preventive measures early in the case of pre-diabetes can reduce the chances of a fatal cardiac event.
The leading causes of death in Type 2 diabetes patients are:
- cardiovascular disease
- heart attack and
- stroke
Type 2 diabetics are considered to have between 2 to 5 times the risk of dying from a cardiac event, and 2 to 4 times the risk of dying from stroke. Decreased circulation, blocked arteries and obesity increase this risk in even in pre-diabetics.
Since many Type 2 diabetics are overweight (a major risk factor for heart disease), maintaining a sensible diet and implementing a weight loss plan is crucial. Eating foods that are:
- low in fat
- low in sugar
- low in cholesterol and
- high in fiber
can help increase heart health and lower the chances of a heart attack.
Keeping your lifestyle healthy and controlling your blood sugar levels can help reduce your chances of heart disease. Smoking increases the risk for both heart attack and stroke, and this risk is multiplied for Type 2 diabetics. Smoking makes no sense, and even smokers in candid moments will agree.
High blood pressure is another factor connecting many Type 2 diabetics with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Lowering blood pressure naturally is the most ideal course of action... by losing weight, exercising properly, eating sensibly and reducing stress. Heart and blood pressure medicines may be discontinued if the problems are brought under control through such methods as weight loss or exercise... another good reason to have your blood pressure checked every three months if you have experienced any cardiovascular complications.
Pre-diabetics who already have additional risk factors for cardiovascular disease can often stave off Type 2 diabetes as well as reduce their chances of heart attack or stroke, simply by making lifestyle changes. Type 2 diabetics who already have their blood sugar under control should concentrate on weight loss (if overweight), and exercise to improve circulation.
Type 2 diabetes who have cardiovascular issues and rely solely on surgical procedures (coronary stents, shunts and heart surgery), often end up requiring further procedures within just a few years if they don't take steps to change their lifestyle. In addition, blood vessel damage caused by high blood sugar levels, can slow healing and create further blockages.
Since Type 2 diabetics are more likely than non-diabetics to suffer a heart attack, it is wise to implement early preventive measures to lower or eliminate other risk factors and promote heart health.
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Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective. http://drugfreetype2diabetes.com/blog Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide
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