Living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can seem overwhelming, as perpetuated myths regarding this disease make it difficult to get accurate information. People may think that once diagnosed you can never eat sugar once more, or misunderstand the real nature of diabetes and its impact on health. Although there are many types of diabetes and the complications associated with them, the truth is simpler than most people assume. Here we’ll demystify six common diabetes misconceptions and explain what’s really going on in your body when you have the disease, so everyone can better understand this complex topic.
Misconception #1: Diabetes is caused by excessive sugar consumption.
Fact: While it’s true that eating sugary foods can lead to an increased risk of developing diabetes, it’s not the only cause. Genetics and lifestyle also play a role in determining the risk of developing diabetes. An overall healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Certainly, people with a family history may be at risk, even without poor eating habits or lack of healthy eating habits. ‘practice.
Misconception #2: People with diabetes should never eat sugar or carbohydrates.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, people with diabetes can still enjoy many types of food, including carbohydrates and sugar, as long as they make sure to balance their meals with other nutrient-dense foods and monitor their intake closely. blood sugar. It is important for people with diabetes to have a balanced diet, because excessive sugar consumption can lead to high blood sugar levels which, in the long term, can be detrimental to their health.
Misconception #3: Diabetes only affects adults.
Fact: Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in young children or adolescents, while type 2 occurs more frequently in adults. However, it is not uncommon for young children and adolescents to develop type 2 diabetes due to obesity or genetic factors. It is therefore important for parents to be alert for signs and symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss and fatigue, which might indicate the presence of diabetes in young people.
Misconception #4: Diabetics need insulin injections every day, regardless of what they eat.
Fact: Insulin injections are recommended for people with type 1 diabetes – which makes them unable to produce enough insulin on their own. – But people with type 2 diabetes may need to take insulin depending on how well their blood sugar is controlled by diet, medication and exercise, without the need for insulin injections daily if managed properly under the care of a physician.
Misconception #5: Diabetes is curable.
Fact: Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Although research has been done on possible treatments such as stem cell therapies, which may make healing possible one day soon. However, until then, managing this condition requires sufferers to adopt a healthy lifestyle while carefully monitoring their blood sugar levels. Under the supervision of health professionals specializing in the management of diabetes, so that they can live comfortably while minimizing the risks associated with complications arising from this chronic disease. Such as stroke, blindness and heart disease, among others…
Misconception #6: Diabetes makes you fat.
Fact: Diabetes does not directly make you fat. In fact, the opposite can happen and many people with diabetes lose weight unintentionally due to their condition.
Additionally, some people with diabetes may develop significant weight gain due to the body’s inability to break down fatty acids as efficiently. Which leads to more fat accumulation than normal, even if they follow a healthy and balanced diet. Diabetes can also cause increased levels of glucagon, another hormone that breaks down stored glycogen and sends it into the circulation where it can be used by other cells. The presence of this hormone causes a decrease in storage capacity in the liver and muscles, which means that any excess glucose will be turned into fat instead of being stored for later use.
