Diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people around the world, and yet, many myths and misconceptions still surround it. You might think you know everything about managing diabetes, but there are some surprising facts that might challenge what you thought you knew. Whether you’re living with diabetes or just trying to understand the condition better, these facts will help you gain a deeper insight. Let’s debunk some common myths and explore seven surprising facts that you should know about diabetes!
7 Surprising Facts to Know About Diabetes
- Sugar Does Not Cause Diabetes!
One of the most persistent myths about diabetes is that eating too much sugar directly causes diabetes. While it’s true that a diet high in sugary foods can contribute to weight gain, and excess body fat is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, sugar itself isn’t the root cause. Diabetes develops when the body fails to utilize or produce insulin. Genetics, poor lifestyle choices, and a lack of physical activity are far more significant contributors to the development of diabetes.
- Gestational Diabetes Does Not Always Lead to Diabetes in Your Baby
Gestational diabetes (GD) is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the needs of both mother and baby. While gestational diabetes can increase complications like preterm birth or high birth weight, it does not automatically mean the baby will develop diabetes later in life. In many cases, blood sugar levels in women with gestational diabetes return to normal after childbirth, and their children go on to live healthy lives. However, it’s important for women who have had GD to monitor their health, as they may be at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
- People with Diabetes Can Enjoy Sweets!
Many people believe that people with diabetes must avoid sweets altogether, but this is not true. People with diabetes can still enjoy desserts and sugary treats—just in moderation. The key is managing carbohydrate intake and balancing it within a well-planned diet. Sweets raise blood sugar levels, so it’s important to keep portion sizes small and opt for lower-carb alternatives when possible. Pairing sugary foods with fiber, protein, or healthy fats can also help reduce the impact on blood sugar levels, ensuring that indulgence doesn’t turn into a problem.
- Jaggery and Honey Are Not Healthy Sugar Alternatives for Diabetics!
When it comes to managing diabetes, many people turn to jaggery or honey as natural alternatives to refined sugar. However, these options aren’t necessarily better for managing blood sugar levels. Jaggery and honey may contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, but they still have high carbohydrate content and can cause blood sugar spikes. In fact, jaggery has a glycaemic index (GI) very similar to that of white sugar, while honey, although lower in GI, can still significantly impact blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, it’s essential to monitor all sources of sugar and carbohydrate consumption, even if they’re labeled as “natural” or “healthier.”
- Diabetes Can Affect Your Emotional and Mental Health!
Living with diabetes is not just a physical challenge; it can also take a toll on emotional and mental health. The constant monitoring of blood sugar levels, the stress of managing diet and medication, and the worry over potential complications can lead to anxiety and depression. Furthermore, fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect mood and energy, leading to what’s known as “diabetes distress.” It’s important for people with diabetes to take care of their mental health as well and seek support if they’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Whether it’s through friends, family, or professional counseling, addressing mental health is crucial for overall well-being.
- Diabetes Can Affect Your Skin Health!
Did you know that diabetes can impact skin? High blood sugar levels can cause dry skin, making it difficult for the body to retain moisture. This can lead to symptoms like itchy, flaky skin and an increased risk of skin infections. Additionally, diabetes can impair the healing process for cuts and bruises, leaving you more vulnerable to infection. Conditions like diabetic dermopathy, characterized by dark, scaly patches on the skin, are also more common in people with diabetes. Managing blood sugar levels through a healthy diet and lifestyle is essential for skin health; therefore, ensure to have a good skincare routine to keep your skin moisturized and protected.
- Eating Small and Frequent Meals Does Not Help!
For many years, people with diabetes were advised to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to help stabilize blood sugar levels. However, this advice may not be as helpful as once thought. In fact, recent research suggests that a time-restricted eating pattern—where food is consumed within a specific window of time—may offer more benefits for managing diabetes. Time-restricted eating can improve insulin sensitivity and may help tackle the underlying causes of diabetes. Along with this, focusing on a diet rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats while controlling portion sizes is a much more effective strategy for managing blood sugar levels.
To Sum It Up
Leading a balanced lifestyle combining regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and proper emotional support plays a crucial role in managing diabetes effectively. Stay informed and take control of your health—knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against diabetes!
