### How to Manage Type 2 Diabetes and Improve Heart Health 1. **Get Plenty of Physical Activity**: Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, biking, or swimming, can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Combining aerobic and resistance exercises is especially beneficial. 2. **Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet**: Limit saturated fats and refined carbohydrates. Opt for a Mediterranean diet rich in whole grains, legumes, fish, lean meats, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. 3. **Maintain a Healthy Weight**: Losing even a small amount of weight can improve blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure. 4. **Don’t Smoke**: Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and can worsen diabetes complications. Seek help to quit if needed. 5. **Drink Alcohol Only in Moderation, if at All**: Alcohol can interfere with diabetes medications and affect blood sugar levels. Drink in moderation and consult your doctor. 6. **Reduce Stress**: Stress can raise blood sugar levels and make managing diabetes harder. Exercise, meditation, and psychotherapy can help reduce stress. 7. **Get Plenty of Sleep**: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep can increase the risk of both heart disease and diabetes. 8. **Get Help for Depression**: Depression can make it difficult to manage diabetes and heart health. Seek professional help if needed.