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Common Diabetes Myths

Submitted by admin on Fri, 2011-11-11 15:07
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Healthy Lifestyle changes and management strategies reduce risk of diabetes Despite all the reputable sources on the internet about diabetes, rumors surrounding the disease still spread. It becomes scary when people with the disease start to believe these myths to be facts. My team created a resource that will be useful to the diabetic community and our first task was to scan several blogs and forums to read popular questions. We did a considerable amount of research on the disease, so we have a basic understanding. While some of the myths were rather humorous to us, we were petrified when others believed them to be facts. Here are a few of the myths we saw frequently throughout our research:
 

Myth: Diabetes is not that serious of a disease

Here are some FACTS about diabetes reported by the Center for Disease Control and American Diabetes Association:
  • Diabetes kills more people than breast cancer and aids combined in the US
  • Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure and new cases of blindness in the US
  • In the United States, diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death
  • Someone is diagnosed with diabetes every 17 seconds
This sounds like a pretty serious disease to me. Wouldn’t you agree?

 

Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes

There is a slither of truth in this myth in that those that are overweight or obese have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A diet that is high in fatty, fried, and sugary foods will lead one to gain weight and can lead to obesity. However, there is no direct link between eating a diet that is high in sugar and developing diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body is unable to produce insulin on its own. Diet and lifestyle factors have no impact on whether one develops type 1 diabetes.

 

Myth: Diabetes is permanent

We repeatedly saw people claiming that once you develop type 2 diabetes, you will have the disease for the rest of your life. This is simply not true! Although genetic factors play a role in whether one develops diabetes or not, lifestyle changes can make the disease more manageable. The risk of developing diabetes is much higher for those that are overweight and a diet and exercise program that promotes weight loss can reduce, or eliminate, insulin dependency. Unfortunately, the same isn’t true for those that have type 1. Until a cure is found, those with type 1 will be dependent on insulin for the rest of their lives. However, those with type 1 only make up 5% of the diabetic population. It is possible for the other 95% of people with diabetes to reduce or eliminate their insulin dependency.

 

Myth: You can catch diabetes from someone else

Unlike the common cold or flu, diabetes is not contagious. If someone with diabetes sneezes or coughs near you, you will not develop the disease. Although the exact cause of diabetes is currently unknown, doctors and researchers know that it is not contagious. However, not every knows this as seen in this question we saw asked in a forum: “I just found out that my girlfriend has diabetes. We’ve been together and intimate for over a year. Does this mean I’ll get the disease soon?” To answer his question, no! Lifestyle and genetic factors may play a role in developing the disease later in life, but no one will spread the disease to you.
 
These are only a few of the myths we came across during the creation of our diabetes guide. There are plenty more which several people believe to be facts, which can have serious consequences. Imagine how you would feel if you developed diabetes and your significant other believed the third myth. It’s important for everyone to help de-bunk a medical myth when you know the facts!
 

Other Articles You May Enjoy:

► Reduce Risk of Type 2 Diabetes with These Simple Steps

► Top 4 Healthy Diets
 

 
About the Author: Adam Bruk is an online marketing specialist who organizes philanthropy events with the American Diabetes Association and is in charge of customer outreach. He also helps visitors with diabetes find diabetes guide to accompany their wardrobe.

 

 

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