9 Most Popular Myths About Type 2 Diabetes, Disproven By Science

[LoShiNi]

About 1 in 10 people in the US have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Despite the fact that diabetes is so common, misconceptions about the condition abound. This is particularly true for type 2 diabetes, which is more common than type 1.

Below is the list of 9 most popular misconceptions about type 2 diabetes, and explanations why these statements are wrong:

1. All people who are overweight get diabetes
Having high BMI is obviously number one on the list of diabetes risk factors. But having extra pounds doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop the disease. And the list of risk factors also includes genetic predisposition, high blood pressure, lack of physical activity, and other factors.



2. Diabetes is not serious
Diabetes is a lifelong disease which requires adjustments to lifestyle and diet, and often the use of medications. If not treated properly, it can eventually lead to serious complications and even cause a heart attack or stroke.

3. If you have diabetes and exercise, your blood sugar will fall dangerously low





Exercise is actually one of the measures you need to take to keep your diabetes in check. If you are on insulin or take medications that raise its levels in your body – consult your doctor, he or she will recommend you how to balance your exercise, medications, and diet plan.

4. Insulin is harmful




In fact, the opposite is true, but you need to adjust to it. Modern insulin is designed in a way that helps to avoid extreme fluctuations of your blood sugar levels. You’ll need to measure your blood sugar levels frequently to make sure it works well, and the dosage and type is right for you.


5. If you have type 2 diabetes, your body can’t make enough insulin
If you have type 1 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce insulin. In type 2, the pancreas produces the normal amount of insulin at first, your body just can’t use it properly. When the pancreas stops producing enough insulin to keep blood sugar at its normal level, it means the disease is progressing from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes.

6. If you have diabetes, you’ll have to give yourself insulin shots
Not all diabetes medications come in the form of injections. Insulin pens, blood sugar meters, and oral medications are also on this list.

7. You can always tell that your blood sugar is too high or too low by the way you feel





Symptoms of high and low blood sugar are sometimes similar to those of other conditions. In addition to that, people who have been suffering from diabetes for a long period of time become used to the fluctuations of their blood sugar levels. The only reliable way to know whether your blood sugar is too high or too low is to measure it.

8. If you have diabetes, you can’t eat any sweets at all



Fortunately, this is not true. Even if you have diabetes, you can you can afford to eat a little amount of sugar. But make sure that your dessert in not too high in sugar, and you enjoy it together with other foods or after your normal meal.

9. Starting to inject insulin is the only change you need in your life after you’re diagnosed
In addition to insulin shots, it’s also important to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Talk to your doctor – he or she will help you create a schedule to manage your diabetes in the best possible way. Adhere to your treatment plan, and you will be able to decrease your risk of additional health problems.