The heart is the lifeline of the human body, performing several indispensable functions, from supplying oxygen to other body organs and maintaining blood pressure to pumping carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation. Unfortunately, approximately one person dies every 33 seconds in the country due to heart disease. Although heart problems may have various causes, diabetes is among the major triggers of cardiovascular conditions. Here are some diabetes-related heart conditions and their early signs:

Heart attack
Patients with type-2 diabetes are twice as likely to develop diabetes as those with normal blood sugar levels. Moreover, patients with diabetes are susceptible to silent heart attacks, which involve no apparent signs. Swelling in the legs or ankles, sweating, nausea, fatigue, and chest pain are some common signs of a heart attack.

Arrhythmia
Arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, may develop or aggravate due to diabetes as a result of disruption to the heart’s structure. Increased palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and a fluttering sensation in the chest are some signs of arrhythmia.

Atrial fibrillation
Studies have shown that diabetes acts as a major risk factor for atrial fibrillation. Diabetes involves structural, autonomic, and electrical changes to the atria, which can contribute to the development of this condition. Some signs of atrial fibrillation include lightheadedness, dizziness, chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Stroke
Diabetes has strong associations with the development of stroke, as it causes pathological changes in the body’s blood vessels. Moreover, mortality rates among patients with stroke are typically higher among those with diabetes.

Besides triggering heart diseases, excessive sugar intake is also associated with constipation. Sugar significantly reduces healthy bacteria in the stomach. Moreover, constipation is associated with changes to one’s intestinal microbiota, which can affect cardiovascular activity. Limited sugar intake and an active lifestyle can help control diabetes and prevent heart problems. One should also chalk out a meal plan rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins and minerals, healthy carbohydrates, and fats, and limit the intake of processed foods.