New research suggests that high blood sugar and insulin levels play a major role in increasing the risk of heart disease, challenging the long-held focus on cholesterol and saturated fat alone.
Researchers from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that people without diabetes still face a sharply higher risk of heart problems when blood sugar remains elevated over time.
The study showed that long-term high blood glucose can nearly double the likelihood of developing heart disease, even without a diabetes diagnosis.
Among individuals with diabetes, each one percentage point rise in blood glucose was linked to an 18% increase in heart attack risk.
Lead author Dr Elizabeth Selvin said lifestyle changes can significantly lower heart risks associated with high blood sugar and insulin.
Nutrition plays a key role, with experts advising reduced intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars, and combining whole grains with protein and healthy fats to slow glucose absorption.
Regular physical activity, including daily walking and resistance training, helps stabilise blood sugar levels.
Maintaining a healthy weight also improves insulin regulation and lowers cardiovascular risk.
