subject: What are the Common Diabetes Misconceptions and Myths [print this page] Diabetes is a widely known condition where the body is unable to adequately control the amount of sugar circulating in the blood. There is Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, with the first being described as insulin dependent diabetes, while the other being insulin resistant diabetes. While much is known about both types of diabetes, there are misconceptions people usually have about the condition. Some of them are discussed here, and by the end, you will know what's true and what's not.The first myth is that people who are overweight will get diabetes sooner or later. There is some truth in it since obese people are predisposed to Type 2 Diabetes. To say that an overweight person will be diabetic is not accurate at all. There are other factors in play for a overweight person to get diabetes. There are many overweight people out there with healthy glucose level as we speak.Diabetes is not contagious. Simply having a family member with it or interacting with diabetics for a long time will not 'transmit' the condition to you. Diabetes can be inherited though, if a parent or a grandparent has it. But the chances of this happening are not always high, more so if one parent has a diabetic-free genetic line.Eating too much sugar causes diabetes. Perhaps this is one of the most widely known myths about the condition. Saying that someone with a sweet tooth will get diabetes is like saying someone with a backache will get arthritis; it's just plainly inaccurate. Stuffing on cakes will make you gain weight but not give you diabetes. Diabetes is caused by genetics mostly, and some unhealthy lifestyle choices like regular consumption of saturated fats. Even people with diabetes can enjoy something sweet every now and then, though not with as much freedom.It is not possible for diabetic patients to eat food high in carbohydrates. In fact, carbohydrates is essential for everyone because our body needs carbohydrates to function, being diabetic does not mean you cannot take carbohydrates. They simply need to adjust their servings, and include plenty of vegetables and fruits for fiber. In fact, some diets designed for diabetics encourage the intake of carbohydrates.If you are taking insulin shots, or some associated medications, it is a go-ahead for you to eat anything you want. This is totally a misconception as these insulin shots are only supposed to give your body more edge in keeping blood sugar levels at optimal ranges. If you decide to snack on junk food, and eat too many carbohydrates and sugars, you are adding insult to injury and the medications will not prevent your blood sugar levels from constantly rising.Diabetes can be treated completely or you only have a little diabetes. If your symptoms are not serious, it does not necessary mean that your diabetes is going into remission. Once you are diagnosed with diabetes, it won't go away as it doesn't have a cure. But diabetes is a manageable disease and as long as you keep your diet in check, exercise regularly and keep a happy lifestyle, then it will never be a problem for you.The above are but some common misconceptions and myths about diabetes, the actual list is much longer. If you have any questions about your diabetic condition, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor.
What are the Common Diabetes Misconceptions and Myths
