Diabetes: Myths and Facts!

According to the International Diabetes Federation(IDF), about 6 million death occur due to diabetes each year globally. Diabetes is commonly mistaken as a minor disease that doesn’t cause any further health issues, which is a myth. while, the fact is that if diabetes is left untreated then it can affect other organs such as the kidneys, liver, and heart.

In this video we will discuss the most common myths about diabetes.

1. Myth: People with diabetes can't eat sugar!
   
Fact: This is the most common myth about diabetes, but that's not true.

• People with diabetes can eat sugar but in limitation instead of eating sugar free diets. Because sugar is essential for body to produce glucose, while excessive sugar intake can lead to high blood glucose.
     
   

2. Myth: Only Obese People Can Get Diabetes.
   
Fact: People who are underweight or normal weight can also get diabetes. However, obese people are at higher risk of getting diabetes because, excess fat in the body stops the glucose from being transferred to the cells leading to high blood glucose.
   
 

3. Myth: I eat a lot of sweets and sugar daily, I’ll get diabetes.
   
Fact: Eating sugar or sweets in moderation doesn't cause diabetes. But, the amount of carbohydrates you take and the amount of glucose that is made from those sugars can cause insulin resistance and make you overweight and hence increase the risk of diabetes.
   
 

4. Myth: Now, my blood sugar is under control, so I don't have to take diabetes medicines.
   
Fact: Diabetes is a disease that can be controlled with a healthy lifestyle and food options, but it doesn't get cured. Instead it keeps progressing, so you should never stop eating diabetes medicine to keep your sugar level in control.
   
 

5. Myth: You can't drink alcohol if you are diabetic!
 

Fact: You can drink alcohol in moderation, if you have diabetes. Drinking too much alcohol in diabetes can lead to severe hypoglycemia, a condition where your blood sugar levels drop.

Source:-
1.8 diabetes myths you shouldn't believe. (2024, June 13). 8 diabetes myths you shouldn't believe. https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/myths-about-diet-and-diabetes

2. Rai, M., & Kishore, J. (2009). Myths about diabetes and its treatment in North Indian population. International journal of diabetes in developing countries, 29(3), 129–132. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-3930.54290