The Myths Surrounding Diabetes - Let's Separate Fact From Fiction

Today more than 23 million Americans with diabetes. Despite the
fact that there is much attention focused on this disease, myths
continually surface. This article discusses 5 commonly held beliefs
that simply are not true. When it comes to diabetes, having the facts
is the first step toward taking control.Myth #1: People with diabetes
need to go on a special diet that excludes all sugar and sweets.Fact:
Sugar and sweets will raise your blood sugar, but people with diabetes
can safely eat moderate amounts of sugar as a part of their meal plan.
The trick is to make sure your blood glucose is in range and your
portions are appropriate. Eat a variety of healthy foods and save the
sweets or sugar for special occasions.While we are on the subject of
sugar and sweets, it's important to understand that eating these foods
do not cause diabetes.Myth #2: Type 2 diabetes is not as serious as
type 1 diabetesFact: Type 2 diabetes is often treated with healthy
diet and exercise, while Type 1 diabetes is always treated with
insulin. Some people interpret this to mean type 2 is a less serious
form of diabetes. Those who believe this myth may not take good care
of themselves and that is serious. Any type of diabetes is serious and
has the potential for complications if not cared for.Myth #3: Some
people just have borderline diabetes or "a touch of sugar."Fact:
There is no such thing as borderline diabetes: you either have it or
you don't. If your fasting blood glucose readings are greater than
126 mg/dl., or your random blood glucose is above 200 gm/dl. on at
least two occasions, then you have diabetes. Fasting blood glucose
readings between 100-125 mg/dl. are correctly referred to as
"prediabetes."Myth #4: Only overweight people have diabetes.Fact:
There are many people with diabetes carrying extra pounds, but some
elderly people with the condition aren't particularly overweight.
There are also individuals who are slender and have a lesser known
type of diabetes called Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA).
The facts? Diabetes doesn't discriminate: slender people can have it
too.Myth #5: People who follow their treatment plan never have high
blood sugar readings.Fact: Unfortunately this is not true. Even those
who are vigilant and follow their treatment plan, can still experience
periods of poor diabetes control. Factors such as stress, pain,
infections, illness, medications, exercise, and diet can change blood
glucose patterns. It's important to understand that diabetes can
change, and what used to work well may no longer keep diabetes under
control.Know the facts and carefully evaluate where your information
comes from. One way to get reliable information is by consulting with
a Certified Diabetes Educator. Remember, there's lot's of information
out there and myths continue to abound!