Diabetes and the Myths that go with it.

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Diabetes is a serious illness. It affects 30 million people in the United States. There are many facts that we know about the disease, and not surprisingly, many myths associated with it as well.

 

 

Some of these myths include:

  • You can catch diabetes from someone else. False  Diabetes is not contagious
  • People with diabetes catch more colds and other illnesses. False. Diabetics aren’t any more at risk for catching a cold than anyone else.
  • People with diabetes can’t eat sugar. False. Sugar should be consumed in small quantities as part of a balanced meal.
  • Only overweight  people get diabetes. False. A  person can be slim, medium build or heavy and still be a diabetic.
  • People who have diabetes shouldn’t drive. False. People with diabetes can do  anything a person who doesn’t have diabetes does.
  • Type II diabetes is not as serious as Type I. False. Every form of diabetes is to be taken seriously. It is just treated differently.
  • Nobody in my family has diabetes therefore I won’t get it. False. While it does run in families, anyone is at risk regardless of family history.
  • Borderline diabetes is not real diabetes. False. It may only mean you are at higher risk of developing diabetes.
  • Eating fruit is bad for diabetes. False. Fruit should be eaten in small portions. Excessive amounts may cause a problem because fruit contains carbohydrates.

Speak to your physician if you would like to clarify the facts about diabetes and your ability to do things. You can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital by calling 718-206-6742.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.