Double trouble

Living with diabetes and heart disease

If you have heart disease, you likely put a lot of effort into eating healthy foods, staying active and keeping on top of your medication. People with diabetes also work at staying healthy by monitoring their diet, getting regular exercise and keeping an eye on their blood sugar levels. And those with diabetes or pre-diabetes are twice as likely as people without to have heart disease or a stroke. If you have diabetes, take these steps to help lower your risk of heart disease and be healthier:

• Kick the habit. Both smoking and diabetes narrow your blood vessels. Smoking also increases your risk of other complications, such as amputation.
• Lose weight, especially around your belly. People with extra weight around their midsection are at greater risk of heart disease, as abdominal fat can cause your body to produce more LDL (bad) cholesterol.
• Better your blood pressure. Having high blood pressure or prehypertension (a reading of 120/80 mm Hg or higher) can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and other problems.
• Stay active. Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day. Talk with your healthcare provider before you begin any exercise program.
• Ask about aspirin. Taking daily aspirin may help some people lower their risk of heart disease and stroke. But it’s not safe for everyone, so talk with your physician about the pros and cons—and the right dose—before you do anything.