The Connection Between Cholesterol and Diabetes: Why It Matters for Your Health

In recognition of World Diabetes Day (November 14), we’re taking a closer look at how different parts of your metabolic health work together. While blood sugar often takes the spotlight, cholesterol also plays an important role in supporting long-term wellbeing. Understanding the link between the two can help you take a more balanced approach to everyday health.

When we think about diabetes, we often focus on blood sugar levels. But there’s another piece of the health puzzle that’s just as important — cholesterol.

Both cholesterol and blood sugar play key roles in how your body works every day. When they’re in balance, your heart and circulation are better supported, and you’re more likely to feel your best.

What’s Happening in Australia

•  Around 1 in 20 Australians lives with diabetes, and the numbers continue to rise.
• About 3 in 10 adults have high cholesterol levels.
• Many Australians have some form of cholesterol imbalance, such as high “bad” (LDL) cholesterol or low “good” (HDL) cholesterol

These two conditions are often linked — when one is out of balance, the other can be affected too.

How Cholesterol and Diabetes Are Connected

The relationship between cholesterol and diabetes is quite close. Here’s why:

• They share common risk factors: things like lack of exercise, being overweight, or eating a diet high in processed or fatty foods can affect both cholesterol and blood sugar balance.
• They influence each other: changes in blood sugar can affect how your body processes fats, which may in turn change cholesterol levels.
• They both impact heart health: maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels supports the health of your blood vessels and circulation.

It’s a bit like a balancing act — when one side tips, it can affect the other.

What the Research Shows

Studies suggest that people who keep their cholesterol within a healthy range tend to have better long-term metabolic health.

Some research has found that people with healthy levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) may have a lower chance of developing metabolic imbalances later on. On the other hand, higher levels of certain blood fats may make it more likely for those imbalances to appear.

While more research is needed, it’s clear that cholesterol plays a role in overall metabolic wellbeing — not just heart health.

What You Can Do to Support Healthy Cholesterol

Keeping your cholesterol in a healthy range doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes can make a big difference:

• Move regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days.
• Eat smart: Focus on whole foods, fresh fruit and vegetables, and limit saturated and trans fats.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Even small weight changes can have a big impact on your cholesterol balance.
• Consider nutritional support: Some natural ingredients eg. Sugar Cane Wax Alcohols (the active ingredient in our RAYDEL Policosanol 10!)  have been shown to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support healthy blood lipids.

The Takeaway

Cholesterol and blood sugar are closely connected — and both matter for your long-term wellbeing. By supporting healthy cholesterol levels, you’re also helping your heart, circulation, and overall metabolic balance.

Taking small, steady steps today can make a meaningful difference in how you feel tomorrow — and give you more confidence in your health every day.