Debunking 12 Common Diabetes Myths

Diabetes Mellitus, commonly referred to as 'diabetes' means 'sweet urine'. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder where in human body does not produce or properly uses insulin, a hormone that is required to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy.

There are lots of myths and misconceptions about diabetes. This article tries to dispel the various myths that are associated with diabetes mellitus.

1. Eating too much sugar causes diabetes
   

   Though diabetes mellitus is hyperglycemia, i.e. excess of sugars in the blood, it is not dependent only on the sugar intake. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors leading to destruction of the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas, which are unrelated to sugar consumption. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. There is no proof that sugar is the main cause behind diabetes. However, eating large amounts of sugar (or foods with sugar like candy or sweetened soft drinks) can contribute to weight gain, which can increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

2. Diabetes is contagious
   

   Diabetes is not contagious. It can't be caught like a cold or flu, but there is a genetic link in Diabetes, particularly the type 2 variety. So, if your immediate family member (parents, brother or sister) has diabetes, you are at higher risk for the disease. But not everyone who gets diabetes inherits it.

3. Only overweight people get diabetes
   

   Being overweight is one of the risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, but there are other risk factors (such as family history, age and ethnicity) also that play a role. Many overweight people never develop type 2 diabetes, and many people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.

4. People with diabetes cannot eat sugar or anything sweet
   

   Sweets are never banned for diabetes. Just its quantity is reduced. If eaten as part of a healthy meal plan and combined with exercise, sweets and desserts can be eaten in moderation by people with type 2 diabetes.

5. Diabetics shouldn't exercise
   

   In fact, it is the other way round. Exercise is a very important component of any diabetic regimen. Exercise has the potential to control diabetes by non-medical means, reducing the severity of the disease, and significantly reducing the risk of long-term complications. Diabetics who are overweight or obese should exercise and lose weight to better manage their condition. Also, regular exercise can help your body respond to insulin better and is known to be effective in managing blood glucose. Exercise can lower blood glucose and possibly reduce the amount of medication you need to treat diabetes, or even eliminate the need for medication.

6. Insulin cures diabetes
   

   Insulin allows diabetics to live, but it is in no way a cure. Even with insulin, diabetics can be susceptible to complications.

7. Stress can cause type 2 diabetes
   

   Although stress is a leading factor in many illnesses, high levels of stress have not been clinically proven to directly cause diabetes. Although, it can make the situation of a diabetic patient worse as people under stress may not take good care of themselves. They may drink more alcohol or exercise less. They may forget, or not have time, to check their glucose levels or plan good meals. Stress hormones may also alter blood glucose levels directly.

8. Starchy foods like bread and potatoes are bad for diabetics
   

   Starchy foods are part of a healthy meal plan. Whole grain cereals, whole grain breads, rice and potatoes can be included in your diet. The key is the portion size. Having 3-4 servings of carbohydrate-containing foods is about right for most people with diabetes.

9. It's in my genes
   

   Some people are born with a greater chance of developing diabetes than others. But many people diagnosed with the disease don't have a family history of diabetes.

10. Even sweet fruits are not allowed
    

    Some fruits do contain more sugar than others, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't eat them if you have diabetes. Different fruits have different amount of carbohydrates. But whether you eat a low-carb or high-carb fruit, as long as the serving size contains 15 grams of carbohydrates, the effect on your blood sugar is the same. So, if you are eating a low-carbohydrate fruit, you can consume a larger portion. Some fruits with 15 grams of carbohydrate: half medium banana, 1/3 cup sapota (chikoo), 1.25 cup whole strawberries and 1/2 cup cubed mangoes.

11. Only drugs can cure diabetes
    

    Diabetes is a disease that requires lifestyle changes along with medical treatment. Medications are only a part of the cure. Healthy, well balanced diet as well as a regular exercise routine is also essential.

12. I can eat sugar free products
    

    'Sugar free' does not mean carbohydrate-free. It is advisable to keep a check on the carbohydrate content of the food, before consuming it. Compare the food labels of the standard products and their sugar-free counterparts. Sugar-free product might be a better choice if it has noticeably fewer carbohydrates.

In the life of a diabetic, good control and a healthy lifestyle are extremely important. However, it equally is important to understand both the myths and the realities of diabetes in order to reduce your risk of developing the disease.