Diabetes is a very common condition around the world, especially since a lot of us are eating more often and in larger quantities than ever before in history. However, diabetes continues to be a highly misunderstood condition. Here are 10 common myths associated with diabetes, along with the true facts.
1. Everyone diagnosed with diabetes is insulin dependent.
There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin injections because the body simply doesn’t produce enough insulin naturally. As a result, type 1 diabetics rely on artificial insulin to replenish their bodies. However, type 2 diabetics do not need insulin injections. Their bodies may produce too little or too much insulin. As a result, they often rely on blood sugar controlling medications, dietary modifications, and exercise to control blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes can go both ways. Some women need insulin injections, while others don’t.
2. People with diabetes aren’t allowed to eat sweets.
Just because you are a diabetic does not mean you can’t enjoy cake, chocolates, ice cream, and other sweets. However, it does mean you need to eat them in moderation and watch your blood sugar after consumption because it will likely spike up.
3. Diabetics should avoid eating carbohydrates.
It is unnecessary for diabetics to eliminate all carbohydrates from their diets. Some carbs are better than others. Complex carbohydrates are encouraged because they have fiber and vitamins, while those high in glucose aren’t beneficial for diabetics and should be limited.
4. Diabetics cannot drink alcohol.
Alcohol consumption is discouraged for diabetics because a lot of alcohol drinks are high in sugars. However, similar to the consumption of sweets, alcohol can be consumed in moderation while carefully monitoring your blood sugar level.
5. Sugar consumption is the only reason people develop diabetes.
While eating excessive sugar is not good for your health, it is not the only reason why people develop diabetes. Obesity, which doesn’t only develop based on eating sugar, is a common cause of type 2 diabetes. Also, type 1 diabetes is often genetic, which means it doesn’t develop based on what you eat.
6. Fruit consumption can cause diabetes just as much as artificial sugars.
A common misconception is that because fruits have sugar, they can cause diabetes. This isn’t necessarily true. Artificial sugars are extremely unhealthy and have a much stronger, adverse effect on your health than natural sugars found in fruits. However, diabetics should watch their fruit consumption, as well, because even healthy sugars can raise your blood sugar.
7. Controlling blood sugar with medication is all that’s necessary for controlling blood sugar.
Controlling your blood sugar does not only involve taking medication to lower your blood sugar. For example, type 1 diabetics rely on insulin. Also, dietary modification is integral to keeping your blood sugar in check. Finally, exercise, remaining physically active, and managing your weight are all important parts of controlling your blood sugar. All of these things combined with medication help you remain healthy.
8. Diabetics don’t need to monitor intake of foods that don’t have sugar.
Just because a product says “sugar-free” does not mean you can eat it as much of it as you want without affecting your blood sugar. A lot of nutritional labels are misleading and simply untrue. Every food has some sort of sugar. As a result, whether you’re eating a cupcake, salmon, or a steak, you must monitor your blood sugar.
9. Starch is bad for diabetics and should be avoided.
Carbohydrates contain starch, which is why many people believe diabetics should avoid starches. It’s perfectly fine to enjoy starches in moderation. As with carbohydrates, not all starches are bad for you. Eat corn and potatoes in moderation, but whole grains are great for you and provide necessary nutrients.
10. Diabetes isn’t a serious illness.
Diabetes is controllable, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a serious condition. Diabetes can be a dangerous disease if left unchecked. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to dangerous effects on your organs, peripheral neuropathy, limb amputations, coma, and even death. Therefore, it is important to take it seriously and control your blood sugar on a constant basis.
Diabetes Management and Care in Dearborn, MI
If you have diabetes, it is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable doctor by your side. Dr. Sham Maghout Juratli can accurately diagnose and help you manage your diabetes, so that you have minimal symptoms and can enjoy the highest quality of life possible.
Make an appointment today and see how we can help you get and stay healthy for years to come. Call (313) 451-8253 to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online.
