When one has hypertension or hyperlipidemia, it is not uncommon for diabetes to develop as well. This is because they share common causes such as being overweight or obese, poor lifestyle habits, and genetics. These chronic diseases should never be underestimated. They gradually damage blood vessels, leading to heart disease, stroke (cerebral infarction and cerebral hemorrhage), kidney disease, and more. Frequent blood sugar spikes after meals can also negatively affect vascular health. Let's take another look at vascular diseases and blood sugar changes.
Frequent Blood Sugar Spikes Leading to Hyperlipidemia... Is Excessive Carbohydrate Intake the Cause?
According to the Korean Diabetes Association, excessive intake of carbohydrates (including sugars) and fats from rice, noodles, bread, etc., leads to weight gain and the onset of diabetes. Lack of exercise causes obesity, weakens muscles, and lowers immunity. This is similar to the risk factors for hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia). Not only fatty foods but also overeating carbohydrates can cause hyperlipidemia. If obesity persists, insulin (the hormone that regulates blood sugar) struggles to lower blood sugar effectively, and the pancreas's insulin secretion function gradually declines, leading to diabetes. Obesity is also a cause of hypertension and heart disease.
Eating Lots of Rice, Noodles, and Bread... Increase in Triglycerides in the Blood
To prevent and manage hyperlipidemia and diabetes, one must avoid excessive intake of carbohydrates and fats. It is essential to eat only the recommended amounts. In particular, one should reduce the intake of saturated fatty acids (found in fatty meats and processed foods) and trans fatty acids (found in snacks and fried foods). Among older adults, many consume a diet primarily based on rice, leading to relatively high carbohydrate intake. This can raise blood triglyceride levels. It is advisable to frequently consume whole grains, vegetables, and legumes that are high in dietary fiber, which helps reduce triglycerides in the body. Excessive alcohol consumption can also raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Poor Eating Habits Can Age Blood Vessels... They Can Become Completely Blocked
Hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes are closely related to the aging of the body. This is why they are more prevalent after middle age. Bad eating habits that started in youth manifest as chronic diseases. Adding smoking to the mix makes it even worse. Hypertension narrows blood vessels, while hyperlipidemia can block them. Diabetes thickens the blood, hindering circulation. Ultimately, this can lead to myocardial infarction, where blood vessels become blocked. Even if one survives, it can result in disabilities from strokes (cerebral infarction and cerebral hemorrhage) and kidney diseases that pose a risk of dialysis. If one already has hypertension or hyperlipidemia, they must focus on management. Above all, prevention is crucial.
Repeating Bad Eating Habits from Youth... Why Is Exercise Essential?
If someone over 50 continues to repeat the bad eating habits of their youth, their aging body cannot handle it. It is advisable to reduce high-calorie, high-carbohydrate, and high-fat foods while increasing the intake of vegetables, whole grains, and seaweed that are rich in dietary fiber. Salty and sweet foods should also be moderated. While eating habits are the most important for preventing these chronic diseases, exercise is also necessary. Regular physical activity improves vascular health. Strength training should be done 2-3 times a week. For those over middle age, it is essential to exercise safely with heavy equipment. The best approach is to move the body frequently in daily life.
