Diabetes and lipid metabolism disorders (Dyslipidemia) very often occur together. In up to 80% of people with type 2 diabetes, the lipid profile is disturbed: elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol and many small, particularly dangerous LDL particles. This combination accelerates vascular calcification and massively increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Causes
The main cause is insulin resistance. It causes the liver to produce more triglycerides and the “good” HDL cholesterol drops. Other factors include obesity, lack of exercise, high alcohol consumption and poor blood sugar control.
Typical changes in diabetes
| Parameters | Change in diabetes |
|---|---|
| Triglycerides | Significantly increased |
| HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) | Humiliated |
| LDL cholesterol | Often normal or slightly elevated, but lots of small, dense LDL particles (particularly dangerous) |
Risks
Diabetic dyslipidemia accelerates arteriosclerosis. The risk of heart attack and stroke is increased 2 to 4 times. At the same time, the risk of kidney damage and eye diseases increases.
Target values and therapy
Stricter target values apply for diabetes:
- LDL cholesterol mostly <70 mg/dl (even if the risk is very high <55 mg/dl)
- Triglycerides <150 mg/dl
- HDL cholesterol > 40 mg/dl (men) or > 50 mg/dl (women)
Therapy: Lifestyle (weight loss, exercise, Mediterranean diet) plus medication - statins are the first choice, supplemented if necessary by ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors.
Further information:
→ Diabetes mellitus – knowledge and overview
→ Why hyporest
→ Type 2 diabetes
Sources
- German Diabetes Society (DDG). S3 guideline “Type 2 diabetes”. As of 2025. Available at: www.deutsche-diabetes-gesellschaft.de/leitlinien.
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1). Available at: diabetesjournals.org.
- Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Federal health reporting – diabetes mellitus in Germany. Berlin 2024.
- International Diabetes Federation (IDF). IDF Diabetes Atlas. 11th edition. Brussels 2025. Available at: diabetesatlas.org.
Important note:
The information in this encyclopedia article is intended solely for general and non-binding information. They do not replace medical advice, diagnosis or therapy. If you have any health questions or complaints, please always consult a doctor or qualified healthcare professional. The content was created with the greatest possible care, but errors cannot be completely ruled out.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
