Sugar smarts fuel strong hearts

Blood sugar management can be challenging. The effects of blood sugar, or blood glucose, go well beyond the pancreas. Our bodies use healthy glucose to keep other organs and systems performing at their best.

Sweet balance

Sugar satisfies your sweet tooth. But your heart prefers it in check. Glucose management can help prevent other medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease.

Coronary artery disease forms when particles like cholesterol build up in blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen to the heart. Having diabetes raises the risk of “bad” cholesterol levels, known as LDL or low-density lipoprotein.

This buildup hardens arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. Over time, it increases the chances of a heart attack, heart failure or stroke.

Recognize the signs

For most people with diabetes, a healthy glucose reading before meals is typically between 80 and 130 mg/dL. A few hours after eating, it should be less than 180 mg/dL. Create a care plan with a doctor for when levels are too high or too low.

Watching saturated fat and sodium levels is also important for those with diabetes to reduce their risk for heart-related health issues. If you have prediabetes, Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and notice these symptoms of heart disease, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor.

Symptoms:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Chest flutter

• Arm pain

• Upper body pain

• Fast heartbeat

• Extreme tiredness

• Jaw pain

Call 911 immediately with these warning signs:

• Chest pain or tightness

• Difficulty breathing

• Feeling faint

Even if you don’t have diabetes, ask your doctor about target glucose levels and how they affect your heart and overall well-being.

You have more power over your health than you may think. Every positive change is another heartbeat closer to a healthier, stronger life.