Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges of our time, yet it remains covered in myths and misconceptions. As we observe Diabetes Month, it’s vital to clear up the confusion and offer insights into a condition that affects millions worldwide.

What is Diabetes?

At its core, diabetes is a metabolic disorder that impacts how your body processes sugar (glucose). Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move sugar from your bloodstream into your cells, where it’s used for energy. In diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels, which, over time, can cause serious complications.

There are three main types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. This type usually develops in childhood or early adulthood.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise. It typically develops later in life, although more young people are being diagnosed with it.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after childbirth, but increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later on.

Myth 1: Diabetes is Caused by Eating Too Much Sugar
While a high-sugar diet can contribute to obesity, a key risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, sugar alone doesn’t cause diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and Type 2 diabetes is influenced by lifestyle, family history, and other factors such as age and ethnicity. It’s important to note that eating sugar does not directly cause diabetes, but consistently poor eating habits and lack of exercise can increase your risk.

Myth 2: Only Overweight People Get Diabetes
Yes, obesity is a major risk factor, but many people with diabetes are within a healthy weight range. Type 1 diabetes can affect people of any body type, and some people with Type 2 diabetes are not overweight at all. Genetics, age, and physical activity levels also play a role in determining risk.

Myth 3: Diabetes Isn’t Serious
Many believe that managing diabetes is simply a matter of cutting back on sugar. However, diabetes is a chronic illness that, if left unmanaged, can lead to serious complications like heart disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and vision loss. It’s a condition that requires lifelong management, but with proper care, people with diabetes can lead full and healthy lives.

Myth 4: People with Diabetes Can’t Eat Carbs
Carbohydrates are a vital part of a healthy diet. For people with diabetes, the key is balance and portion control. It’s not about eliminating carbs, but understanding how they affect blood sugar and pairing them with protein, fibre, and healthy fats to maintain steady glucose levels.

Myth 5: You’ll Know if You Have Diabetes
Many people think diabetes has clear, obvious symptoms, but that’s not always the case. Type 2 diabetes can develop slowly, with subtle or no symptoms at all, meaning it often goes undiagnosed for years. This is why regular screening, especially if you have risk factors, is crucial.

The Road to Prevention and Management
The good news is that Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes, even if you have a family history. Simple steps such as:

  • Eating a balanced diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods and limit sugary drinks.
  • Being physically active: Regular exercise helps control weight, lowers blood sugar, and improves your body’s ability to use insulin.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce your risk.
  • Monitoring your blood sugar: Regular check-ups can help catch diabetes in its early stages and prevent complications.

For those already living with diabetes, working closely with healthcare professionals to manage the condition is key. This might involve medication, insulin therapy, and ongoing lifestyle adjustments to keep blood sugar levels in check.

If you want to know more about diabetes or wish to talk to a dietician to give you a diabetic-friendly eating plan, then call LifeAssist – at no cost to you.