Diabetes and Heart Disease

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Diabetes and Heart Disease
            According to the American Heart Association, at least 68% of people 65 and older die from heart disease and 16% die of stroke. Heart disease rates are two to four times higher in adults with diabetes than among adults without diabetes. What is the link between heart disease and diabetes? How should dietitians counsel patients who are at risk?
It is estimated that about 97% of people with diabetes have dyslipidemia. Dyslipidemia causes disturbances in endothelial function which promotes atherosclerosis is these individuals. Some changes that result include increased constriction of the  coronary artery, increased thrombosis, and increased local inflammatory response.
There is a strong relationship between hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and heart disease. It has been shown that managing proper blood glucose levels can reduce heart disease risk. Keeping blood pressure in a healthy range can reduce overall cardiovascular mortality. Treatments to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol have been proven to correct dyslipidemia and reduce heart disease risk in these patients.
So what is the job of the clinical dietitian? It is our job to work with the healthcare team to identify at-risk patients. Dietitians should pay close attention to blood glucose levels, A1c, and BMI of patients. It is then the job of the dietitian to provide appropriate medical nutrition therapy and educate them about the risk. Find out which heart-healthy foods the patient enjoys and brainstorm some healthy meal and snack ideas the patient can eat at home. The dietitian has the expertise needed to develop an individualized eating pattern directed toward lowering blood glucose, blood pressure, and altering blood lipid profiles.

Brown-Riggs C. The diabetes and heart disease link. Today’s Dietitian. 2014:16(4);12.

Early signs of heart disease in preadolescent children with type 1 diabetes. Science Daily Web site. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110214155501.htm. February 11, 2011. Accessed February 6, 2014.

View article at: http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/040114p12.shtml

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