### Heart-Healthy Foods for Managing Diabetes Diabetes affects your entire body, including your heart. People with diabetes are almost twice as likely to die from heart-related issues like heart attacks or strokes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. However, you can take steps to improve both your diabetes and heart health. Along with monitoring your diabetes, taking prescribed medications, and exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet is crucial. #### A Well-Balanced Diet While there's no specific diet for diabetes, a balanced diet similar to the Mediterranean diet can help keep your blood sugar in check. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people at high risk for heart disease, including some with diabetes, reduced their risk of stroke or cardiovascular death by 30% by following a Mediterranean diet. This diet includes olive oil, nuts, and plenty of fruits and vegetables, which positively affect blood pressure, weight, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol, and inflammation. #### Heart-Healthy Foods to Include To benefit both diabetes and heart health, focus on foods high in fiber and healthy fats. Some particularly beneficial foods include: - **Fruits and Vegetables**: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. - **Whole Grains**: Such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice. - **Healthy Fats**: Found in olive oil, nuts, and avocados. - **Lean Proteins**: Like fish, chicken, and legumes. Filling up on these healthy foods can help you feel more satisfied and improve your overall health. A diet rich in plant-based foods can also help keep blood pressure under control and reduce overall blood sugar levels.