World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on 14 November with the aim of raising awareness about diabetes and sharing ways to prevent it. However, many types of beliefs and misconceptions regarding diabetes are also prevalent in the society, which can prove to be harmful for the patients. In such a situation, it is important to know the truth of these myths, so that diabetes can be managed with the right information.
Let us know five major myths related to diabetes and their truth.
1. Myth: Only eating sweets causes diabetes
Truth: It is the biggest myth that only eating sweets causes diabetes. Although consuming too much sugar can certainly lead to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes, there are many other causes of diabetes. These include genetic factors, lifestyle and obesity. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.
2. Myth: Diabetics can’t eat fruits
Truth: Many people believe that diabetics should not eat fruits because they contain natural sugars. However, this is not true. Some fruits, such as apples, pears and oranges, have a low glycemic index, meaning they do not raise blood sugar levels as quickly. Consuming fruits in balanced quantities provides vitamins and minerals, which are essential for health.
3. Myth: Diabetes means taking insulin all the time.
Truth: Not all diabetics use insulin. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin, but type 2 diabetes can be controlled with lifestyle changes, proper diet and medication. Insulin is used only when blood sugar cannot be controlled by other measures.
4. Myth: Diabetes can be cured
Truth: Diabetes is a long-term disease and cannot be completely cured. However, it can be controlled by following proper lifestyle and diet. People with type 2 diabetes can keep their blood sugar normal with regular exercise and a healthy diet, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely cured.
5. Myth: Only carbohydrates should be avoided in diabetes
Truth: In diabetes, attention should not be given only to carbohydrates but to a completely balanced diet. Consuming healthy fats, proteins and fiber is also important. Carbohydrates should also be selected properly, such as consuming complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and do not cause a sudden increase in blood sugar levels.