10 Common Diabetes Myths You Should Stop Believing
Ujjal Lohar | Feb 17, 2025, 10:00 IST
Diabetes is surrounded by numerous misconceptions that can lead to fear and mismanagement of the condition. This article debunks 10 common myths, such as the belief that eating too much sugar directly causes diabetes or that people with diabetes must avoid carbohydrates and sweets entirely. It clarifies that diabetes is not contagious, insulin is not exclusive to Type 1 diabetes, and exercise is beneficial. While diabetes can be managed effectively with a healthy lifestyle and medication, it is not completely curable. Understanding these facts can help individuals make informed choices, improve health outcomes, and enhance quality of life.
Diabetes
is one of the most common health conditions worldwide, yet many misconceptions surround it. These myths often lead to unnecessary fear, confusion, and even poor management of the condition. In this article, we’ll debunk 10 common myths about diabetes and present the real facts to help you or your loved ones manage it better.Myth 1: Eating Too Much Sugar Causes Diabetes
a lady with a lot of junk food
Reality
: While sugar consumption is often linked to diabetes, eating too much sugar alone doesn't cause or prevent diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of genetics lifestyle factors and insulin resistance. However excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity which is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.Myth 2: People with Diabetes Can’t Eat Carbohydrates
lots of carbohydrates
Reality
: Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that provides energy. People with diabetes can eat carbs but they need to choose complex carbs like whole grains vegetables and legumes over refined carb foods like white bread and sugary snacks. Managing portion sizes and monitoring blood sugar levels are important.Myth 3: Only Overweight People Get Diabetes
overweight women in the gym
Reality
: Many persons of normal weight or even underweight can get Type 2 diabetes, even though obesity is a major risk factor for the disease. Diabetes risk is also influenced by other variables, such as poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, and heredity. However, not everyone who is overweight goes on to get diabetes.Myth 4: Type 2 Diabetes is a Mild Form of Diabetes
diabetic woman checking her glucose level
Reality
: Diabetes is never "mild
." Serious side effects include heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and eye issues that can result from unmanaged type 2 diabetes. To avoid difficulties, proper management is essential, which includes exercise, a balanced diet, and occasionally medication.Myth 5: You Can't Eat Sweets If You Have Diabetes
woman choosing between a cupcake and an apple
Reality
: Moderate consumption of sweets is still possible for those with diabetes. Portion control and striking a balance with a nutritious diet are crucial. Dark chocolate, sugar-free sweets, and natural sweeteners like stevia can all be suitable substitutes. Instead of completely cutting off sweets, the goal should be to keep blood sugar levels steady.Myth 6: Only Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes Need Insulin
diabetic woman injecting insulin
Reality
: By the way, insulin is a necessary component in the successful treatment of Type 1 diabetes and some people with Type 2 diabetes need to take it as well when oral drugs and lifestyle changes do not perform well in controlling their blood sugar level. Other medical ailments may make it necessary for you to take medicine that can cause weight gain.Myth 7: It's Easy to Spread Diabetes
a family having soft drink
Reality
: You can't give diabetes to another person because it is not infectious. It's a metabolic disease that results from a combination of both genetic and environmental causes. There is a genetic association of diabetes with families which means if one family member has diabetes, others may have more probability to get it too.Myth 8: Exercise Should Be Avoided by Those with Diabetes
man relaxing in sofa while ignoring workout
Reality
: If you have diabetes, you will definitely have a positive effect on exercise. Regular doing of physical activities can help in blood sugar regulation, and insulin will have a better effect, as well as overall condition. Cycle, walking, going to yoga classes, or visiting the gym are good options. Diabetics should ensure that they monitor their blood sugar levels before and after every activity in order to avoid any alterations.Myth 9: You'll Always Have Symptoms If You Have Diabetes
a young woman having pain her waist
Reality
: Type 2 diabetes is commonly diagnosed too late because of the lack of symptoms of the majority of its patients. Furthermore, the development of problems such as fuzzy vision, fatigue, excessive thirst, and frequent urination normally occurs over time. The initial recognition and maintenance of frequent blood sugar levels by regular blood sugar testing are indispensable for early treatment. Myth 10: Diabetes Is Totally Curable
syringe and medicine
Reality
: Diabetes can be adequately treated, but there is no long-term treatment. A combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight loss are lifestyle options that can bring some individuals with Type 2 diabetes into remission. This, however, does not mean that diabetes is eradicated permanently; thus, regular checks are still needed.