Myths About Diabetes and Facts You Should Know

Uncategorized  |  March 27, 2019

Many people are misinformed about diabetes. Some don’t realize that it’s a serious disease. There are a number of myths about diabetes, who gets it and why, and what can be done. Know the facts so you can help yourself or a loved one. The following may be helpful.

Fact: Diabetes is serious. More people die annually from diabetes than the total of breast cancer and AIDS. Diabetics are also almost twice as likely to suffer a heart attack.

Fact: Diabetes isn’t just a disease for overweight adults. The fact is that most overweight people won’t have type 2 diabetes, although carrying extra weight is a risk factor. Family history, ethnicity, and age also determine health and wellness.

Fact: Sugary sodas, energy, sport, fruit drinks, and sweet teas may not always be a cause of diabetes, but they raise blood glucose levels and should be mostly avoided if living a healthy lifestyle. Genetics and other unknown factors trigger type 1 diabetes, but genetics and lifestyle factors trigger type 2. Either way, small portions of desserts and sweets are best and should only be eaten occasionally.   

Fact: The truth is that diabetics benefit from the same healthy diets, with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, just like anyone else. Those foods labeled “diabetic” or “dietetic” might raise blood glucose levels are usually expensive, and always unnecessary.

Fact: Starchy foods don’t have to be eliminated. They can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in small portions. Ask your doctor about portion sizes of potatoes, yams, peas, and corn.

Fact: Every diabetic doesn’t have to take insulin. Type 2 diabetes is progressive in nature, but many people with this disease learn to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Some take oral medicine, but insulin is not always necessary.

Fact: Know the symptoms. Some people fail to recognize them because they’re so mild. One in 11 Americans has type 2 diabetes, and 1 in 4 of those people don’t even know it, so keep this list of symptoms and check back to it from time to time.

• Difficulty feeling satiated although eating enough
• Excessive thirst
• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Noticeably slow healing of cuts or bruises
• Weight loss, even though you are eating more (type 1)

Comfort Keepers can help diabetic adults with meal preparation, driving to doctor appointments, exercises, and more. Call us today for more information for you or your loved one.

Share This Post: