Diabetes is one of the key problems plaguing many people around the world. November 14 is regarded as World Diabetes Day. This year’s theme is ‘The Nurse and Diabetes‘. The campaign aims to raise awareness around the crucial role that nurses play in supporting people living with diabetes.
According to World Health Organisation, 422 million people worldwide, particularly in ,low and middle income countries. The disease is one of the main causes of death in the world. There are basically two types of diabetes namely; Type 1 diabetes(lack of insulin) and type 2 diabetes (ineffective use of insulin).
Medical experts say there is a connection between diabetes and cardiac diseases. Hence it is important for a diabetic patient to maintain cardiovascular health by the following:
1. Focusing on what they eat. It is important not just to balance the calorie intake, but also to ensure a healthy proportion of carbohydrate, fat and proteins. The diet must be enriched with micronutrients, fats, fibre and minerals.
2. Regularly exercising. This is important for a healthy heart. Their exercise program must include flexibility, aerobic, strength training and yoga.
3. Practising good muscle health along with fat loss would help control their sugar levels more effectively and durably and keep your heart healthy.
4. Limiting mental stress is also vital for heart protection.
5. Finally, going for periodic testing and regular consultation with your diabetes care doctor to ensure that their sugar levels are controlled, but also that the heart disease risk factors are in good shape.