Home | health | 6 Early Signs Of Heart Disease Due To Excessive Sugar Intake

6 Early Signs of Heart Disease Due to Excessive Sugar Intake

6 Early Signs of Heart Disease Due to Excessive Sugar Intake

In a world where sugar-laden treats and beverages are readily available, the impact of excessive sugar consumption on our health cannot be ignored. Studies show that consuming too much sugar can lead to more than tooth decay, it can also increase the risk of heart disease. If left unattended, it may cause cardiovascular health complications. So identifying the early signs is important as it enables individuals to proactively address their eating habits and protect their hearts.

What is the link between high sugar intake and cardiovascular health?
Excessive sugar consumption can raise one’s blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. It also triggers the liver to release harmful fats into the bloodstream and can contribute to chronic inflammation linked to heart attacks and strokes. The slow digestion of sugary foods provides a steady energy supply to cells, further exacerbating these effects. On the other hand, consuming foods that are high in nutrients and fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, has proven to be effective in lowering the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. Besides this, excessive sugar intake can cause unhealthy fat accumulation in the abdomen, resulting in inflammation, insulin resistance, and an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease.

Early signs of heart disease due to excess sugar intake
Chest pain
Chest pain is a common symptom of diabetic heart disease. Individuals with diabetic heart disease may experience chest discomfort, pressure, tightness, or pain radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. These symptoms typically occur during physical exertion or emotional stress, when the heart’s demand for oxygen-rich blood exceeds its supply due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.

Shortness of breath
Unexplained shortness of breath, even during mild physical activity or rest, can indicate diabetic heart disease. The impaired heart function may lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs, resulting in difficulty breathing.

Fatigue
Feeling excessively tired or experiencing a decreased ability to engage in usual activities can indicate diabetic heart disease. The compromised blood flow and reduced oxygen supply to the body’s tissues and organs, including the heart, can contribute to persistent fatigue.

Inflammation
Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen may occur due to fluid accumulation. This symptom can be an indication of heart failure, which commonly accompanies diabetic heart disease.

Irregular heartbeat
Heart rhythm abnormalities, such as arrhythmias, may be present in individuals with diabetic heart disease. One must not ignore symptoms like palpitations, a sensation of a racing, pounding, or irregular heartbeat, and seek medical attention.

Clogged arteries
Coronary arteries supply blood to the heart, and when they become narrowed or blocked, it leads to Coronary artery disease (CAD). While excessive sugar intake is not a direct cause, it may contribute to the development or progression of the underlying condition, such as diabetes, which is a risk factor for CAD. Additionally, chronic high sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance and inflammation which can increase the likelihood of developing heart problems.

Ways to manage heart disease due to excessive sugar
Reduce sugar intake
Reducing sugar intake is the cornerstone of managing heart disease due to excessive sugar. Minimize consumption of added sugars found in processed foods, sugary beverages, desserts, and snacks. Instead, opt for natural sources of sweetness, such as fresh fruits. One is advised to read food labels carefully and be aware of hidden sugars under different names like high fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, and maltose.

Maintain optimal blood sugar levels
For individuals with diabetes, maintaining optimal blood sugar levels is essential in managing heart disease. Following a balanced meal plan for diabetes, monitoring blood glucose levels regularly, and adhering to the insulin regimen and any instructions given by one’s healthcare professional are important. One is advised to work closely with one’s doctor to manage diabetes effectively, as controlling blood sugar levels helps reduce the risk of complications and progression of heart disease.

Eat more whole foods
To combat heart disease in the long run, it is advisable to choose whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These nutrient-rich options not only improve overall health but also support heart health and lower the chances of chronic illnesses. Fruits and vegetables also supply vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Similarly, replacing refined grains with whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread can be beneficial since these provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals while aiding digestion and promoting satiety. Including healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil maintain a healthy heart.

Regular physical activity
Regular physical activity plays a pivotal role in managing heart disease related to excessive sugar intake. One must incorporate activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing into one’s routine. Physical activity helps lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and enhance cardiovascular fitness.

Stress management and emotional well being
Chronic stress and emotional disturbances can adversely impact heart health. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engaging in hobbies and activities that promote relaxation. Prioritize self-care, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and seek support from loved ones or professional counselors to manage stress effectively.

Regular medical check-ups
Routine medical check-ups are vital for managing heart disease resulting from excessive sugar intake. Regularly visit healthcare professionals to monitor heart health, review risk factors, and receive appropriate screenings. These check-ups allow early detection of any changes or complications, enabling prompt intervention and tailored management plans.

Collaborating with one’s healthcare provider offers the opportunity to prevent or slow down the progression of heart disease through various approaches, including effectively managing blood sugar levels, addressing coexisting conditions that heighten the risk of heart disease, and integrating heart-healthy habits into one’s everyday routine. A collaborative effort between an individual and a healthcare provider can be immensely beneficial in maintaining a healthy heart.

Read Also

Know more about exciting & latest articles right here

Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic Esophagitis, or EoE, is a chronic digestive disease of the esophagus caused by an allergic condition. It is characterized by chest pain, heartburn, and solid food dysphagia. If this disorder is left untreated, it can cause esophageal remodeling and stricture formation. This disorder is also marked by eosinophilic inflammation and impacts the quality of life of the affected person. You can check out various reliable health websites to get information on eosinophilic esophagitis. A patient with EoE must be very careful with his health and meal plans, as research suggests that EoE is linked to food allergies. Therefore, the six most common food items that are responsible for such allergies include: Dairy Cow milk is said to be one of the most common reasons for EoE. Milk protein can trigger too many eosinophils. You should avoid food items made up of milk, buttermilk, lactose, and other related dairy products. You can replace dairy products with coconut hemp, dairy-free yogurts, cashew ice cream, etc. Soy Soy-based food items include tofu, soy butter, soymilk, and miso. Soy cheese, soy nuts, soy milk, etc., should be avoided and can be substituted with refined soybean oil or coconut aminos. Wheat You might think wheat is only found in bread, cereal, or baked goods.
Read More
5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

One of the most vital systems in our body is the digestive system. It is responsible for the digestion of food and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body to meet the bodily requirements for energy, development, and cell repair. Issues in the digestive can interfere with the body’s ability to get energy from food. While some gastrointestinal issues can go away with healthy eating habits, other concerns may require treatment.  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) IBS is a functional bowel disorder. This means the cluster of varied symptoms categorized as IBS is brought on by changes in the normal functioning of the digestive system. The primary sign is abdominal pain, which can develop before or after a bowel movement, and is a reliable indicator of IBS. Additionally, one may experience both constipation and diarrhea. The form of IBS can be determined depending on whether a person has diarrhea or constipation more frequently or both equally. Other IBS signs and symptoms are incomplete bowel motions, white mucus in the stool, and bloating. Nutrition is important for managing the symptoms of IBS, which includes eating low-fat, high-fiber meals and avoiding common trigger foods when the cause of the condition is unknown. Food poisoning or gastrointestinal infection are common causes.
Read More
8 Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

8 Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Most of us make it a goal to keep our house clean and tidy. Cleaning the house may look like a straightforward task, but there are certain aspects that are generally overlooked. Cleaning is a time consuming and tedious activity. And most of us make common cleaning mistakes that do not provide us with the results we expect. So here is a list of cleaning mistakes to avoid for better results and a sparkling clean home. Mixing cleaning chemicals You may think mixing two or more cleaning products will increase the cleaning power. However, this can be very dangerous as it might release toxic fumes. For example, household cleaners like Clorox Pinesol should never be mixed with bleach as they can react together to produce hazardous chlorine gas or even chloroform. Similarly, Pinesol disinfectant should not be mixed with room spray sanitizer as the chemicals could react together to unleash a toxic cloud of gases that can trigger respiratory problems and even cause skin burns. Instead of mixing chemicals, use a single cleaning agent or solution and stick to a reliable brand. Alternatively, you can also enlist the help of a cleaning company, like Servpro Services, which offers a range of affordable home cleaning services. Using feather dusters A feather duster may seem very useful, but all it does is spread the dust from one surface to another.
Read More
11 Potential Warning Signs of Excess Sugar Intake

11 Potential Warning Signs of Excess Sugar Intake

Processed foods like cakes, cookies, candies, and breakfast cereals contain added sugar, and most people find them delicious and irresistible. However, they have little nutritional value. Eating too many sweets can increase the risk of several health issues. For instance, it can lead to blood sugar spikes and heart disease. When a person eats too much sugar regularly, the body begins to give signs that it is time to cut back on sweet foods. High blood pressure Besides monitoring salt intake, people suffering from high blood pressure should watch their sugar intake because eating too much sugar is also linked to high blood pressure. According to a study, foods high in sugar can reduce nitric oxide in the blood vessels, which can, in turn, impact blood flow and lead to high blood pressure. Mood swings or irritability Feeling moody, irritable, or depressed on and off is a common sign of high sugar intake. Mood swings occur as foods high in sugar affect the neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. Sugary foods also negatively impact gut function, another factor linked to a person’s mood. Low energy or tiredness Binging on sugary snacks wreaks havoc on one’s blood sugar levels. It first causes blood glucose to rise, providing a boost of energy.
Read More