Diabetes & Bustered Myths
MYTHS in DIABETES
Myth #1 If You Have Diabetes You Will Always Be Sick
No. Diabetics can lead ordinary, healthy and productive
lives.
Myth #2: If it is in your family, you will get it too.
No. Studies have shown that there is a genetic
predisposition for diabetes, so if it runs in the family, it
should be taken as a sign that individuals may have an
increased risk for developing the disease.
However, a risk does not necessarily mean that individuals
are bound to end up with the disease. There are many
preventative measures that can be taken in order to decrease
risk, such as exercise, healthy diet, and weight
conciseness.
Myth #3 You can catch diabetes from someone else.
No. Although we don’t know exactly why some people get
diabetes, we know that 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. But
environmental factors also play a part.
Myth #4 Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
No. Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and
environmental factors. However, being overweight does
increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, so if you
have a history of diabetes in your family, a healthy diet
and regular exercise are recommended to control your weight.
Myth #5 People with diabetes can’t eat sweets or chocolate.
No. You can have some sugar, but choose wisely.
Sweets are no more out of bounds to people with diabetes
than they are to the rest of us, if eaten as part of a
healthy diet, or combined with exercise. People who take
certain tablets or insulin to treat their diabetes may
sometimes need to eat high-sugar foods to prevent their
blood glucose levels falling too low.
Myth #6 People with diabetes can’t drink alcohol.
No. You can drink alcohol occasionally if you limit your
intake.
Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy
an occasional alcoholic beverage. If you do, practice
moderation — no more than a drink or two a few times a
week. Alcohol is full of calories and doesn’t supply any
nutrients. Like sugary foods, alcohol is best kept as an
occasional indulgence, and not a regular part of your diet.
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