Published: 16 February, 2026 Valentine’s Day is a great reminder to care for your heart, especially if you live with diabetes. People with diabetes are 2-4 times more likely to develop heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease, including heart attacks. The good news is that there are many practical ways to keep your heart healthy, and people who can support you in doing this. Have regular heart health checks Many people only discover they have heart disease when they get symptoms. Annual diabetes health checks (which include checks for your heart) help spot signs early, when they are easier to treat. Together with your health professional, you can also use the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) Information Prescriptions to understand your heart health and what your targets should be to help lower your heart disease risk. Information prescriptions to support your heart health checks include: Blood pressure Blood glucose level (HbA1c) Blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) Talk to your health professional about when to have your next diabetes health checks and what your targets should be. If you have any of the following heart attack symptoms, seek urgent medical help by calling 000. Do not wait until your next check-up. Chest pain or heaviness Shortness of breath Dizziness or faintness Arm or jaw discomfort Weakness Nausea Be active for a healthy heart Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful ways you can look after your heart health and diabetes. Regular physical activity helps reduce your risk of developing heart disease and having a heart attack by: Lowering blood pressure Improving blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) Supporting a healthy weight Improving blood glucose levels Physical activity is also great for your bones, muscles, and mental health. How much physical activity you should do will depend on your fitness level and goals. If you are not currently active, talk to your doctor first. Start small and gradually build up your exercise amount. Even short bursts, like a 10-minute walk after meals, can make a difference. Any movement is better than none. Ideally, aim for at least: 30 minutes a day of moderate intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) 2 sessions a week of strength or resistance training (such as push-ups or lifting weights) When you have diabetes, there are some extra things to consider when you exercise to stay safe. See the NDSS Physical Activity Fact Sheet for more tips on exercising safely. You can also ask your doctor for a referral to see an exercise physiologist who can help you make an exercise plan. Make healthy food and drink choices Healthy eating and drinking habits help you manage your weight, blood fats, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels. This helps keep your heart healthy. Healthy eating and drinking habits mean: Choosing high-fibre, lower glycaemic index carbohydrate foods Eating mostly vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, lean proteins, and healthy fats Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavour your meals Limiting alcohol For more tips, see the NDSS Healthy Food Choices Fact Sheet or talk with a dietitian to develop a personalised eating plan that supports your diabetes and heart health. They can also advise you on serving sizes and snacks. Manage your blood glucose levels and weight Keeping blood glucose levels in your target range: Reduces damage to your blood vessels Improves your cholesterol levels Lowers your blood pressure Reduces your risk of having a heart attack or stroke Carrying extra weight, especially around your waist, is a major risk factor for heart disease. Losing 5–10% of your body weight if you’re above a healthy range can lower your risk. Regular physical activity and healthy eating habits are two of the most important ways to manage your blood glucose levels and weight. Break free from smoking Smoking significantly increases your risk of a heart attack, especially if you have diabetes. If you smoke or vape, try to quit. For advice or practical support, speak with your doctor or call the Quitline on 13 7848. Pursue lifelong heart health Show your heart some love this Valentine’s Day. Make February the month you go dancing with a friend, share a healthy meal with a loved one, or book in for a heart health check-up. For long-term heart health, have regular annual diabetes health checks know your targets, be active, have healthy eating habits , and manage your blood glucose levels and weight. If you’re unsure about where to start, visit the NDSS website, call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 or talk to your health professional.
