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Medical Experts Dispel Myths About Diabetes

More than 18 million Americans are living with diabetes-a chronic disease that can lead to life-threatening illnesses including heart disease and stroke, blindness, kidney disease and amputation.

The good news is you can control diabetes with proper medication, exercise and diet. But many people have incorrect information about diabetes, a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has cleared up several myths about diabetes.

Myth #1: You can catch diabetes from someone else.

Fact. Although we don’t know exactly why some people develop diabetes, we know diabetes is not contagious. It can’t be caught like a cold or flu. There seems to be some genetic link in diabetes. Diabetes tends to run in families and is also caused by some environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise, experts say.
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Myth #2: People with diabetes can’t eat sweets or chocolate.

Fact. Under your doctor’s supervision, you can occasionally eat small portions of sweets and desserts. Sweets can be OK if eaten as part of a healthy meal plan, combined with regular exercise and if you regularly take your prescribed medication. An occasional candy bar or a small bowl of ice cream is no longer viewed as an automatic no-no, the ADA says. But you should check with your doctor or dietitian, the ADA urges.

Myth #3: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Fact. Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. However, being overweight does increase your risk for developing diabetes. If you have a history of diabetes in your family, eating a healthy meal plan and regular exercise are recommended to manage your weight.

Myth #4: People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses:

Fact. You are no more likely to get a cold or another illness if you have diabetes. However, people with diabetes are advised to get flu shots. This is because any infection interferes with your blood glucose (sugar) management, putting you at risk of high blood glucose levels.

Myth #5: Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is OK to eat as much of it as you wish.

Fact. While fruit is certainly a healthy food, you must watch how much fruit you eat. Because fruit contains carbohydrates, it needs to be included in your meal plan. Talk to your doctor or dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat, the ADA urges.

Copyright Johnson Publishing Company Jul 4, 2005

Source: Jet