Your recent diagnosis might leave you with many questions, and it may seem only natural to seek out answers on your own. Take a moment to breathe and remind yourself that the internet is a scary place, and should not be your sole source of information gathering.
While there is still the temptation of the internet, here are common myths that doctors have thoroughly debunked both on and offline, which might be helpful for you to know.
MYTH #1) Diabetics should ward off all sugars and eat nothing but healthy snack options.
A healthy intake of natural sugars is actually super good for you and by no means should you stop eating fruits, breads, or starches in appropriate quantities. The most important point to remember in eating the foods you like, is to enjoy everything in regards to how frequently your blood sugar levels fluctuate, and to use discretion if you happen to have any underlying illnesses or diseases. Your doctor is better able to instruct a diet plan which will most likely allow you to eat the foods you love, in very manageable and proportioned serving sizes.
MYTH #2) Exercising is dangerous and you should always be monitored when you work out
Rest assured that there are many gym enthusiasts and even athletes that lead comfortable and active lives, even with Type 1 diabetes.
If you happen to have any apprehension about getting started on a workout routine, consult a personal trainer along with your doctor, in addition to what athletic gear, sneakers, therapeutic socks, or bands will help you meet your fitness goals. Once you’ve gotten the hang of a routine that is compatible with your strengths and abilities, you are more than able to go at it alone, especially if you are otherwise in good health.
MYTH #3) Having diabetes means I am going to lose limbs when I get older
This might be the most common fear among diabetics, but no, not all diabetics are at risk of losing fingers and toes. Progressive symptoms like loss of circulation, or poor blood flow, is what ultimately necessitates an amputation, or multiple amputations. Preventative care measures like taking regular medicines, exercising, massaging, and keeping the extremities mobile and active, easily prevents the body from developing blood clots which can compromise blood flow.
MYTH #4) People with diabetes will eventually lose their eyesight
While it’s true diabetes has many debilitating effects if left untreated, for the most part, blindness in increasingly more and more preventable. Along with managing your glucose levels, staying active, and seeing your doctor regularly, blindness — like the risk of amputation, is just as easily avoidable.
The key to maintaining all signs of good health, including 20/20 vision, is to be more mindful of your eating and lifestyle habits, and to make sure you are following guidelines which are meant to improve and maintain your overall health.
MYTH #5) People with Type 2 diabetes shouldn’t worry as much as people with Type 1
No doctor would advise anyone to worry, but the assumption that one form of the disease is “better” or “milder” than the other isn’t exactly true. For some people, their diabetic symptoms may be less severe and easier to manage and for others a lot more so, depending on the progression of the disease, not necessarily which type.
It is important when forming any opinions on your condition, which ultimately help you make the appropriate lifestyle choices to help manage your symptoms, that you think on a purely individualistic basis. Only you and your doctor will know what medicines, foods, and activities will help you lead a healthier life, so avoid comparing your experience with that of other diabetics.
