If you’re not a diabetic, there are many myths and misconceptions about diabetes that you may believe, and we don’t blame you for them. Diabetes is complex, and there are many so-called facts repeated in popular culture that many don’t question. If you have a friend, family member, or are susceptible to diabetes yourself, here are some diabetes myths that you should throw away in 2020.
Only Obese People Get Diabetes
When some people imagine a diabetic, they may think of an overweight person who ate a lifetime of sweets and is suffering the consequences for their actions. Alternatively, some people may be a little more educated and believe that type 1 diabetes is contracted by anyone, but type 2 is the one that’s a result of an unhealthy lifestyle.
However, this stereotype isn’t necessarily true all the time and can lead to some toxic behaviors. Some people may think that diabetics don’t deserve insurance coverage because they feel like diabetes was a consequence of their own actions.
There is a kernel of truth to the idea that if you are obese and have an unhealthy diet, your risk increases. However, people who are skinnier can still get diabetes for a few reasons, including:
- Still having an unhealthy diet. There are people who have a high metabolism and never gain weight, but they eat unhealthily. If your diet is high in saturated and trans fats, sugar, and you’re eating unhealthy foods, you may still have a risk of diabetes.
- Being skinny fat. This is when you have fat on you, but your body shape still resembles that of a skinny person. This may increase your risk of diabetes.
- Living an extremely stressed lifestyle may increase the risk of diabetes, regardless of your weight. It’s important that you lower your stress levels through means such as exercise or speaking to a counselor about whatever problems you may have.
Eating a Bunch of Sugar in One Sitting Can Cause Diabetes
Whenever you see a picture of a rich dessert on the Internet, you’re bound to see a diabetes joke in the comments. The implication is that if you eat that dessert, you’ll get diabetes. To them, diabetes is like a virus that is easy to catch.
As we mentioned before, a lifestyle of unhealthy eating can increase your risk of diabetes, but eating a treat every once in a while, or splurging isn’t going to do much damage.
People with Diabetes Can’t Eat Sugar at All
This is another myth that is persistent. To people who aren’t diabetics, sugar to a diabetic is like garlic to a vampire. The truth is that yes, diabetics can have sugar in moderation. In fact, they do need some sugar if their blood sugar level is low. They just can’t eat sugar with no control. Depending on your diabetic level, your diet may be stricter. For instance, with type 1 diabetes, you have to adjust your insulin levels more often, and it can be trickier. However, diabetics can still eat sugar.
People with Diabetes Do Not Qualify for Insurance
For years, people in the diabetes community have thought they may not qualify for various Health, Life, Disability, or Long Term Care insurance products. This is simply not true. While finding coverage maybe a little more difficult, there are generally options for people. When it comes to life insurance with diabetes, rates have never been lower, and there have never been more options available to consumers.
If You Have Diabetes, You’ll Lose Your Legs and/or Go Blind
This is one of the more terrifying myths about diabetes, and like many myths, there is some truth. If not properly managed, your diabetes can cause you to have an amputation, and your sight may fail you, but again, it’s all about management. If you know how to take care of your diabetes, you can live a long, healthy life without any complications.
There are several misconceptions when it comes to Diabetes. 2020 is the perfect time to educate yourself and learn the facts.
