Heart, kidneys, pancreas: connected in sickness and health

Each organ in the body performs a unique role, yet also relies on other organs for optimal functioning. If one component falters, it can strain the rest, compromising overall health.

A prime example of this interdependency is the close relationship between the heart, kidneys and pancreas. It follows that cardiovascular (heart) disease, kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes are also interconnected.¹

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), the kidneys can’t properly perform their function of removing waste and toxins from the blood. Type 2 diabetes is associated with abnormally high blood sugar levels, because the hormone insulin isn’t being used effectively.  The pancreas is the organ that produces enzymes and hormones, notably insulin, that help break down food and control blood sugar levels.^1,2,3

The kidneys filter waste products and excess water from the blood, which the cardiovascular system transports throughout the body (including back into the kidneys).

When the kidneys aren’t working properly, blood composition and volume changes, making the heart work harder to pump it around your body, which puts pressure on the blood vessels. Raised pressure on the blood vessels can in turn damage your kidneys, limiting their blood-filtering capacity and leading to CKD.³

The pancreas releases hormones, especially insulin, which control blood sugar levels and assist in converting food into nutrients. These nutrients are then distributed to the cells via the cardiovascular system.

In Type 2 diabetes, either the pancreas underperforms or the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to inefficient glucose uptake by the cells, which results in elevated blood sugar levels. Excess sugar in the bloodstream harms the blood vessels, and suboptimal nutrient utilisation in diabetes can adversely affect how the heart muscle performs. Additionally, individuals with Type 2 diabetes often present with related conditions like hypertension, further escalating their risk for cardiovascular ailments.

Heart attacks and strokes in people with type 2 diabetes occur nearly 15 years earlier, and are more severe compared to those in people without type 2 diabetes. Plaque can build up “silently” in the blood vessels for years, so it is recommended that cardiovascular risk factors be monitored at least annually if you have type 2 diabetes.^3,4,5

The good news is that following straightforward healthy living tips, and checking in regularly with your doctor will simultaneously protect all three organ systems:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruit, vegetables and lean protein, and low in processed foods, sugar and salt.
• Get regular exercise. Gradually work up to minimum 150 minutes weekly of cardio (exercise that raises your pulse rate) plus bi-weekly strength training (e.g. lifting weights; weight-bearing exercise like push-ups).
• Don’t smoke. One year post-quitting, your coronary heart disease risk is half that of a smoker’s.
• Drink less. Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure.
• Take medications exactly as prescribed so they work well.
• Check in regularly with your doctor.^1,2,3,6,7