Not every diabetic goes blind or has their legs amputated. Get enlightened about these and other myths that show how you can lead a productive, healthy life even with diabetes.
Did you know that a staggering 3.8 million Malaysians have diabetes? And that 1.8 million are likely unaware they even have it?
Truth is, there are just too many myths surrounding this chronic illness including how to eat right to avoid sugar highs and lows.
So here you go – the 15 most common myths people believe to be true about diabetes and those who suffer from it.
1. Diabetic? No sugar for you
FALSE: Diabetics must eat a balanced diet, which can include sugar in moderation. So go ahead and have that small piece of chocolate.
2. Only fat people get Type 2 diabetes
FALSE: 20% of people with Type 2 diabetes are of normal weight, or are underweight.
3. Diabetics will eventually go blind and lose their legs
FALSE: While diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and has resulted in many having to amputate their limbs, this is not a certainty for all diabetics. As long as diabetics control their blood pressure, glucose levels, weight and quit smoking, they will be fine.
4. Injecting insulin is painful
FALSE: Insulin injections don’t hurt but practise makes perfect. If you learn the right technique of injecting insulin into your body, you won’t feel a thing.
Here’s a tip: After selecting and cleaning an injection site on your body, firmly but gently pinch up an area of the skin about 2–3 inches wide. Inject at a 90-degree angle while the skin is pinched. Leave the needle in while you relax the pinch. Count to five slowly. Then remove the needle. Do not massage the area after injecting.
5. Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar
FALSE: Type 1 diabetes is genetic and caused by unknown factors that trigger its onset. Type 2 diabetes is also genetic and caused by lifestyle factors. If you are overweight and consume too many sugary drinks, this will increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Ben Coker, 26, is a professional footballer for Southend FC and has type 2 diabetes. He says a new insulin driver/patch has helped him manage his condition better and remain in professional football. Sept 14,2015 – photographed at Southend Football Club training ground.
6. People with Type 1 diabetes can’t play sports or exercise
FALSE: They can play football, hike, workout at the gym, play basketball and run marathons – the sky’s the limit!
7. Women with diabetes shouldn’t get pregnant
FALSE: As long as a woman can manage her diabetes well, she can have a normal pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.
8. Diabetics always know when their blood glucose level dips too low
FALSE: Some people cannot feel the symptoms of low blood glucose, or hypoglycemia, which can be dangerous.
9. You have to lose a lot of weight for your diabetes to improve
FALSE: Losing just 7% of your body weight can offer significant health benefits if you’re a diabetic.
10. You’ll know if you have diabetes by your symptoms
FALSE: Type 2 diabetes often goes undiagnosed because it usually presents few or no symptoms when it first develops.
11. People with diabetes can’t donate blood
FALSE: They can donate blood as long as their diabetes is under control.
12. Diabetes is contagious
FALSE: This myth has been going around since the 60’s. Diabetes is categorised as a “non-communicable illness”, meaning it cannot be passed on by sneezing, touching, nor via blood. The only way in which diabetes can be passed on is from parents to their own children; genetically.
13. Those with Type 2 diabetes who need insulin are in big trouble
FALSE: Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease, and most people will start with oral medication and eventually, will need to go on insulin. However, starting insulin doesn’t mean you’ve done a bad job — just the opposite, in fact. Insulin will help you to better manage your diabetes and lowers your risk of developing complications.
14. Those with diabetes must follow a special diet
FALSE: People with diabetes are normal people too. As long as it’s a healthy diet – plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, with limited amounts of fat and refined sugar – it’s okay.
15. Those with diabetes are weak and more likely to fall ill
FALSE: People with diabetes are NOT more likely to have colds or other illnesses. However, an illness can make your diabetes more difficult to control.
DoctorOnCall is Malaysia’s first online clinic that allows chat, phone, and video calls directly with a registered Malaysian doctor at www.doctoroncall.com.my
DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained here with other sources, and review all information with your physician. Please do not disregard professional medical advice or delay treatment because of something you have read here. FMT is not responsible and liable for any damage caused through information obtained here.
