Living with diabetes can be enough of a challenge — without having to deal with inaccuracies, misunderstandings and just plain wrong information.
Let’s take a closer look at some more common myths about diabetes and the truth behind them.
Table of contents
- Myth #1: Diabetes isn’t a serious disease.
- Myth #2: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same.
- Myth #3: Being overweight always causes diabetes.
- Myth #4: No family history, no worries.
- Myth #5: Carbs are bad for diabetes.
- Still have questions?
- Sources
Myth #1: Diabetes isn’t a serious disease.
The Truth: Diabetes causes more deaths each year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. If you have diabetes, you’re twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke.
The good news: making some lifestyle changes can help you better manage diabetes and improve your heart health.
Myth #2: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same.
The Truth: While both types are linked to insulin, the diseases are very different.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body stops making insulin. People with type 2 diabetes make insulin — but their body’s cells don’t absorb it.
Myth #3: Being overweight always causes diabetes.
The Truth: A lot of people think weight is the only risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Actually, it’s just one of them.
Many people who are overweight never develop diabetes. And you don’t have to be overweight to have diabetes. Other factors — such as your age, family history and ethnicity — play a role, as well.
Myth #4: No family history, no worries.
The Truth: Many people with diabetes have no close family members with diabetes.
While you may not have a family history, lifestyle choices can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes. You can help counter that by staying active, eating well and maintaining a healthy weight.
Myth #5: Carbs are bad for diabetes.
The Truth: Carbohydrates are part of any healthy diet, whether you have diabetes or not.
Yes, carbs affect blood sugar levels. But not all carbs are created equal. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables are important sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber. So choose more of those carbs. And try to stay away from starchy, sugary or refined carbs.
Still have questions?
That’s where it’s good to turn to your diabetes team. Talk to your doctor or diabetes educator to get answers and understand how you can better manage diabetes.
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/diabetes-and-heart.html
https://www.diabetes.org/tools-support/diabetes-prevention/diabetes-myths
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/diabetes-myths-truth
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/special-topic/diabetes-myths-and-facts
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000964.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/diet-myths#artificial-sweeteners
