Tuesday, September 29, 2026, is World Heart Day which is a global initiative led by the World Heart Federation that raises awareness of heart disease. Because heart disease is a leading cause of death, it is important for individuals to know their own personal risk factors. Having a conversation with your healthcare provider can help you to better understand your risk and develop a plan to reduce that risk.
Taking Care of Your Heart
People living with diabetes are at greater risk of developing heart disease than those without diabetes. Having uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time. This damage can cause inflammation and put individuals at increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Understanding this connection is very important if you or someone you know is living with diabetes.
While complications from diabetes can be serious, there are ways to lower your risk of developing complications like heart disease. Creating sustainable, healthy habits and being consistent with those habits can make a significant impact on your health. Some important steps include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Getting regular physical activity
- Managing stress
- Following a heart-healthy eating pattern
- Taking medications as prescribed
While you don’t have to completely overhaul your lifestyle overnight, setting realistic goals that work for you and taking action steps towards those goals will greatly support your overall health.
Programs to Support Your Health
If you are living with diabetes or caring for someone who is, UF IFAS Extension in Putnam County provides health and nutrition-focused educational programs designed to help you better manage diabetes and reduce risk of complications. Dining with Diabetes is a nationally recognized program that teaches practical skills for managing diabetes. Participants learn about healthy eating, meal planning, and lifestyle choices that support blood sugar control and heart health.
Whether you have recently been diagnosed, have lived with diabetes for years, or care for a loved one with diabetes, Dining with Diabetes can give you the knowledge and confidence to make healthier choices each day.
Dining with Diabetes is a 4-part series that will be held virtually via Zoom starting Monday, October 26, 2026 from 12-1 PM. Register today and reserve your spot at https://diningwithdiabetesputnam.eventbrite.com. The last day to register for the program is October 25, 2026.
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