Diabetes and Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels are as serious as high blood pressure, whether you are diabetic or non-diabetic. Heart disease and stroke, both of which have been linked to high cholesterol in both men and women, are two of the leading causes of death for diabetics.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is effectively blood fat that comes in two major forms. These are High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), two very different things. HDL is usually referred to as ‘good cholesterol’, and actually serves to protect the heart from developing problems. Amongst diabetics, the function of this type of protein is often reduced. LDL is bad cholesterol, because it gathers in the blood vessels. Amongst diabetics, this is a more likely occurrence.

What is total cholesterol?

Total cholesterol is a figure gleaned by testing the levels of both HDL and LDL cholesterol within a diabetic patient’s body.

I am a diabetic, when should I be tested for cholesterol?

Healthcare officials advise that total cholesterol and a specific HDL cholesterol test should be performed as often as once every year. It is very difficult to measure LDL cholesterol, but amongst most patients the other two tests will give an accurate diagnosis.

I may have high cholesterol as a consequence of diabetes, what can I do?

If your cholesterol levels are found to be too high, the first step should be to cut down on the amount of fat that you eat. This can mean a simple adjustment to your diet, and a dietitian should be able to offer advice on this. For some people, tablets are also suitable, but healthy eating is the primary way to lower cholesterol.

Do I need tablets for my high cholesterol?

Whether you need to combine a healthier diet with tablets for your cholesterol depends on how serious the problem is, and your medical history. For instance, a history of heart attacks, angina, strokes and circulatory problems are more likely to necessitate tablets.

My doctor wants to give me cholesterol tablets and Aspirins, why is this?

Cholesterol tablets are often accompanied by Aspirins in order to thin the blood.

If your GP thinks it is suitable he may prescribe you Aspirin for this purpose.

Where can I learn more?

Please use the Diabetes.co.uk community forum to learn more about cholesterol from other diabetics, and please use Diabetes.co.uk to learn more about diabetes and exercise, diabetes and heart disease and diabetes and diet.