People with diabetes need to be particularly careful about watching their diet and managing the disease because they are at heightened risk for developing cardiac problems. Of course, exercise also is key. Even something as simple as a brisk walk can boost your cardiovascular strength if done routinely. Exercise also will help keep your weight down and your blood pressure under control. Keep an eye on your blood pressure.
Experts estimate nearly one in four adults has high blood pressure, or hypertension.
If you're African American, Hispanic, middle-aged, elderly, overweight, a heavy drinker or you take oral contraceptives, you're at special risk. To keep your blood pressure under control, learn to manage stress in your life, exercise regularly and limit your salt intake to less than 1,100 milligrams to 3,300 milligrams per day. Still, lifestyle modifications sometimes aren't enough. If your blood pressure is consistently high, talk to your doctor. Many effective medications are available.