Myths and misconceptions about diabetes and treatment

Diabetes is a long-term condition which can have acute complications. There are lots of myths and misconceptions associated with diabetes and its treatment.

The common myths associated with diabetes and its treatment are:

  • Eating excess sugar causes diabetes mellitus.
  • Eating excess sugar doesn’t cause diabetes but can lead to obesity and being overweight, which are risk factors for diabetes mellitus.

  • Diabetes is not a serious condition.
  • Diabetes is a common condition; however, there is no cure for the disease, and it is often associated with other complications such as kidney diseases, skin diseases, eye complications, etc.

  • Diabetes only affects obese people.
  • Overweight and obesity are risk factors for diabetes; however, people of normal weight can also get diabetes. Type I diabetes is not associated with weight.

  • People with diabetes cannot consume sugar.
  • Diabetes patients can consume carbohydrates, but they must be carefully planned and regularly monitored. They need to consume diabetes-friendly food.

  • Diabetes always leads to blindness and amputation.
  • Only in some cases of diabetes do patients experience blindness and amputation. It is often associated with other risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, overweight, smoking, physical inactivity, etc.

  • People with diabetes should not drive.
  • It is true only in cases of low levels of blood glucose and vision problems.

  • Prediabetes always leads to diabetes.
  • Prediabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal. However, if left unchecked, it can lead to diabetes. A proper diet and regular physical activity can prevent the progression of diabetes.

  • People with diabetes cannot be active.
  • Regular exercise helps in the management of diabetes. It helps reduce weight and blood glucose levels.

  • Diabetes is contagious
  • Diabetes is not caused by pathogens and is a noncommunicable disease.

  • Diabetes can be cured by natural products.
  • Diabetes cannot be cured by natural products and can sometimes harm the individual.

  • People with diabetes cannot plan pregnancy.
  • People with diabetes can plan pregnancy provided their diabetes is well controlled.

  • Children with type 1 diabetes should be on a strict diet plan.
  • Children with type 1 diabetes need to consult a dietician or their doctor for appropriate dietary advice.