Myths And Misconceptions About Diabetes

As you know by now, I have type 2 diabetes. Does it affect my life? Yes. Is it the most horrible thing I have to deal with? In my dreams. Many people live active, fulfilling “normal” lives regardless of diabetes.

I am surprised on regular basis how little the general population knows about the disease. I get silly questions often. Everything from, “I have nothing to worry about, you can only get diabetes from being fat, right?”, to “Doesn’t it suck never being able to eat sugar?”

Come on people, yes obesity is a risk factor, but there are plenty of thin people with diabetes. And do they really think I never eat sugar? Moderation, moderation, moderation. Gosh!

There are so many myths and misconceptions out there, I thought we should clear the air as to make everyones lives easier. Take this little true and false test to see what you know about diabetes? Come on, don’t be scared!

1. Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.

2. Being overweight causes diabetes.

3. Type 2 diabetes is less severe than type 1.

4. Type 2 diabetes can turn into type1.

5. People with diabetes can not eat sugar.

6. Taking insulin or medication allows diabetics to eat whatever they want.

7. People with diabetes can not drink alcohol.

8. Women with diabetes shouldn’t have babies, it is too risky.

9. Treatment for diabetes is pointless, it is never cured anyway.

10. Children can outgrow diabetes.

Well how do you think you did? If you answered all the questions as true, than you need to read the myths and facts article by the Worldwide Initiative for Diabetes Education to learn a little something. All the above statements are false. Lets help educate each other, pass the test on!