Diabetes is growing at an alarming rate in India. With millions of diabetics living in India, there are lots of misconceptions about the disease. Here are some common myths and the facts about diabetes:
Myth 1: Diabetes is not a serious disease.
Fact: Diabetes is a serious and chronic disease. Having diabetes doubles your chances of getting cardiovascular diseases. However, it can be managed with proper medication and leading a healthy lifestyle.
Myth 2: Diabetes is caused by too much sugar.
Fact: While Type 1 Diabetes is caused by genetics and some unknown factors, Type 2 Diabetes is a result of genetics and lifestyle factors. One is at greater risk of type 2 diabetes if he is overweight.
Myth 3: A diabetic can’t consume any kind of sweetener.
Fact: Avoiding direct sugar is a must for a diabetic person. However, artificial or low-calorie sweeteners can be used to sweeten foods and drinks.
Myth 4: People with Diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses.
Fact: Having diabetes doesn’t put you at greater risk for illnesses like colds. But, an illness can make your diabetes difficult to manage.
Myth 5: If you’re diabetic, you cannot participate in sports or exercise.
Fact: Being a diabetic, you don’t have to refrain yourself from playing your favorite sport. Any sport can be followed while managing diabetes.
Myth 6: Women with diabetes shouldn’t get pregnant.
Fact: Women who manage their diabetes well can have a normal pregnancy and can give birth to a healthy child.
Myth 7: A diabetic person can feel when the blood glucose level goes down.
Fact: It’s not certain that a person will always realize his blood glucose level going down. That’s why it is necessary to keep a record of blood sugar levels for each day.
