Millions of Americans have diabetes and millions have misconceptions about the disease therefore it's important to understand the truth about diabetes and how it can effect your lifestyle.
Myth: If diabetes doesn't run in my family I probably won't get it.
Truth: It is true that if diabetes runs in your family you are more likely to get it; however, it is a misconception that you are "safe" otherwise. More and more Americans are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes which can be caused by poor dieting and lack of exercise.
Myth: Diabetes isn't that serious of a disease.
Truth: Having diabetes is not a death sentence and it is manageable with proper treatment; however, diabetes is among the top 10 causes of deaths in America.
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Myth: Only people who are overweight should be concerned about diabetes.
Truth: Being slender helps to reduce your chances of getting diabetes but a slender person can also have an insulin deficiency that causes type 2 diabetes.
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Myth: Only adults can get type 2 diabetes.
Truth: This myth is far from true. Recently more children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which is mainly due to poor diet and a lack of physical activity. Childhood is correlated to diabetes.
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Myth: Gestational diabetes is only a problem while a woman is pregnant.
Truth: A woman who had gestational diabetes while pregnant will no longer have the disease after giving birth. However, recent studies show that these women are more likely to get type 2 diabetes later in life.
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Myth: Once you have diabetes you will always have it.
Truth: It is possible to reverse the symptoms of diabetes. For those who are obese it is possible that significant weight loss and diet adjustments can change diabetic symptoms.
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Myth: Diabetics cannot have carbs or sugar.
Truth: Eating these types of foods in moderation is generally ok. There are certain types of sugars and carbs that are actually healthy for diabetics.