Practical tips to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke if you have diabetes

(NC) With the new year underway and spring just around the corner, it's a good time to take simple steps to improve your health. But this can be challenging if you have a chronic disease like diabetes. Whether it's a parent, relative or family friend, many of us know someone living with diabetes.

But what many of us don't realize is that diabetes can have a negative impact on vital parts of the body, including the heart. In fact, approximately one in two people with type 2 diabetes will die due to heart disease, which includes heart attack, heart failure and stroke. This is the most common cause of death among people with diabetes. Yet, according to a recent survey of people with diabetes, nearly half (49 per cent) are unaware that their diabetes alone significantly increases the risk.

That's why it's so important to talk to your doctor about your heart health if you have diabetes, and take steps to lower your risk of heart disease.

Diabetes Canada recommends the “ABCDES” to help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke:

A1C. Control blood glucose levels and keep your A1C around 7 per cent or less. A1C is a blood test that is an index of the average blood glucose level over the last 120 days.

Blood pressure. Keep blood pressure to less than 130/80 mmhg. Cholesterol. The LDL (bad) cholesterol target is 2.0 mmol/l or less.

Drugs to protect your heart. Speak with your doctor about medication options to help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Exercise. Along with a healthy diet, regular physical activity can help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.

Smoking and stress. Avoid smoking and manage stress effectively with, for example, exercise, meditation, yoga or whatever works for you.

Speak to your doctor, and visit www.myheartmatters.ca for more information about how you can protect your heart health.