5 Major Myths about Diabetes

1) If You Have Diabetes You Will Always Be Sick

The truth is, diabetics can lead ordinary, healthy and productive lives. As long as they always keep their blood levels in check and eat well, they can live just like those without diabetes.

2) If diabetes is in your family, you will absolutely get it.

Scientific studies have shown that there is a genetic predisposition for diabetes. If it happens to run in the family, it should be taken as a sign that your risk is very high. Consult your family doctor as soon as possible.

On the other hand, a risk does not mean that you will end up with the disease. There are many preventative measures that can be taken in order to decrease risk. This includes exercise and proper nutrition.

3) Diabetes is Contagious.

Even though science does not know exactly why people get diabetes, we know that diabetes is not contagious. It cannot be caught like a cold. It all depends on your environmental settings.

4) Eating high levels of sugar will cause diabetes.

Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. With that being said, being overweight does increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. If you have a history of diabetes in your family, a healthy diet and regular exercise is recommended to control your weight.

5) Individuals with diabetes cannot eat candy or chocolate.

You can have a certain amount of sugar, but you must choose wisely. Candy is no more dangerous to diabetics as it is to non diabetics. People who take insulin to treat their diabetes may sometimes need to eat candy in order to prevent their blood glucose levels from falling.