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Diabetes Myths
Here are a few of the most common myths about Diabetes.
Myth #1 You can catch diabetes from someone else.
No. Diabetes is not contagious. It can�t be caught like a cold or flu.
There seems to be some genetic link in diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes.
Lifestyle factors also play a part.
Myth #2 People with diabetes can't eat sweets or chocolate.
Sweets and desserts can be eaten by people with diabetes, if eaten as part of a healthy meal plan,
or combined with exercise, They are no more �off limits� to people with diabetes, than they are to
people without diabetes.
Myth #3 Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
No. Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors.
However, being overweight does increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
If you have a history of diabetes in your family, eating a healthy meal plan and regular
exercise are recommended to manage your weight.
Myth #4 People with diabetes should eat special diabetic foods.
Diabetic and �dietetic� versions of sugar-containing foods offer no special benefit.
They still raise blood glucose levels, are usually more expensive and can also have a
laxative effect if they contain sugar alcohols.
People with diabetes should follow a healthy meal plan the same as everyone � low in fat (especially saturated and trans fat), moderate in salt and sugar,
with meals based on whole grain foods, vegetables, protein and fruit.
Myth #5 If you have diabetes, you should only eat small amounts of starchy foods, such as bread, potatoes and pasta.
Starchy foods are part of a healthy meal plan. What is important is the portion size.
Whole grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice and starchy vegetables like potatoes, yams, peas and
corn can be included in your meals and snacks. The key is portions.
For most people with diabetes, having 3-4 servings of carbohydrate-containing
foods is about right. Whole grain starchy foods are also a good source of fiber,
which helps keep your gut healthy.
Myth #6 People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses.
No. You are no more likely to get a cold or another illness if you have diabetes.
However, people with diabetes are advised to get flu shots. This is because any infection
interferes with your blood glucose management, putting you at risk of high blood glucose
levels and, for those with type 1 diabetes, an increased risk of ketoacidosis.
Myth #7 Insulin causes atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and high blood pressure.
No, insulin does not cause atherosclerosis. In the laboratory, there is evidence that insulin
can initiate some of the early processes associated with atherosclerosis. Therefore,
some physicians were fearful that insulin might aggravate the development of high blood
pressure and hardening of the arteries. But it doesn�t.
Myth #8 Insulin causes weight gain, and because obesity is bad for you, insulin should not be taken.
The benefit of glucose management with insulin far outweighs (no pun intended) the risk of weight gain.
If you are taking insulin & are concerned about weight gain, please consult your doctor. Do not just stop
taking your insulin.
Myth #9 Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is ok to eat as much of it as you wish.
Fruit is a healthy food. It contains fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals.
Because fruit contains carbohydrate, it needs to be included in your meal plan. However, too much of anything isn't good for you.
Talk to your dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat.
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