We know that diabetics are at greater risk of developing heart disease. This is because diabetes puts a strain on the cardiovascular system. So, what about cholesterol levels? It appears, your LDL-cholesterol levels may reveal diabetes. This applies to people who have pre-diabetes and are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This article examines the relationship between high cholesterol and diabetes.
LDL-Cholesterol and Diabetes
Now that you know that your LDL-cholesterol levels may reveal diabetes, we need to look at how they relate to each other.
LDL-cholesterol, often also known as “bad cholesterol” can lead to cardiovascular diseases. Diabetics often have high LDL-cholesterol levels, so they are at risk. But is the opposite true too? Are non-diabetics with high LDL-cholesterol levels at higher risk of developing diabetes?
Experts know that people with a condition termed as pre-diabetes often have insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high LDL-cholesterol levels. Hence, we can say that your LDL-cholesterol levels may reveal diabetes. No doubt, this applies to people who have pre-diabetes.
What Is Pre-Diabetes and What Can You Do to Stop Developing Diabetes
People with high levels of blood glucose, high levels of LDL-cholesterol, and insulin resistance are in the pre-diabetes stage. This means that they are a risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, this isn’t full-blown diabetes, so individuals can use it as a wake-up call. By working with their physicians and adjusting their diet and lifestyle, they can lower the diabetes risks.
What’s more, they can often eliminate the risks altogether. When doing so, they are also likely to lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Final Thoughts
The link between high LDL-cholesterol levels and diabetes works both ways. Diabetics often have high LDL-cholesterol levels, and those with high LDL-cholesterol levels can be at risk of getting diabetes.
Working closely with your physician and discussing this link is essential.
