Diabetes Drug Plus Healthy Habits Slash Heart Risk by 50%

A groundbreaking study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025 reveals that combining GLP-1 receptor agonist medications with healthy lifestyle habits provides the most powerful protection against cardiovascular events for people with Type 2 diabetes. The research, conducted through the Million Veteran Program and involving over 63,000 veterans, found that those who adopted at least six healthy lifestyle factors while taking GLP-1 RA medications had a remarkable 50% lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events compared to those taking neither approach. This combination proved more effective than either intervention alone, demonstrating that medication and lifestyle work synergistically to protect heart health.

The study, led by Dr. Xuan-Mai Nguyen of the Department of Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and UCLA, examined eight key lifestyle factors including healthy eating, physical activity, not smoking, restful sleep, moderate alcohol intake, good stress management, social connection, and avoiding opioid addiction. Researchers found that participants adhering to all eight healthy habits had a 63% lower risk of cardiovascular events compared to those following one or fewer habits. While GLP-1 RA medications alone provided a 20% risk reduction—consistent with previous research—the combination with multiple healthy lifestyle factors dramatically amplified the protective benefits. The findings emphasize that lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of diabetes management, and for those with access to newer medications, combining both approaches yields the greatest cardiovascular protection.

Dr. Chiadi E. Ndumele, chair of the American Heart Association's Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health, emphasized that these findings suggest "a healthy lifestyle really complements the powerful effects of GLP-1RAs" and that healthcare professionals should emphasize both approaches for optimal patient outcomes. The study's significance is underscored by the fact that people with Type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to die from cardiovascular disease, according to the Know Diabetes by Heart initiative. While the research has limitations—including its observational nature and predominantly white male veteran population—it provides compelling evidence that the combination of medication and lifestyle offers the most robust cardiovascular protection for this high-risk population.