DIABETES MYTHS

Myth #1. You can catch Diabetes from someone else.

Although we don't know exactly why some people develop one of the various forms of Diabetes, we know the condition is not contagious. It can't be caught like a cold or flu, but there is a genetic link in Diabetes, particularly the Type 2 variety. Insulin Resistance leading to obesity may also be a major factor in reversible Pre-Diabetes, which, if left unchecked, can lead to irreversible, full-blown Type 2 Diabetes. A sedentary lifestyle and poor diet can also play a key role in the onset of Pre-Diabetes.

Myth #2. Eating too much sugar causes Diabetes.

Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. However, being overweight and consuming excessive amounts of carbohydrates does increase your risk for developing reversible Pre-Diabetes, which, if neglected, can develop into irreversible Type 2 Diabetes. If you have a history of Diabetes in your family, it's recommended that you manage your weight by eating healthy, low-glycemic, low insulin meals and getting regular exercise.

Myth #3. People with Diabetes should eat special Diabetic foods.

A healthy meal plan for people with one of the various forms of Diabetes is the same as that for everyone - low in fat (especially saturated and trans fat), low in carbohydrates, moderate in salt and sugar - meals that have an emphasis on vegetables and fruit. Diabetic and "dietetic" versions of foods containing sugar offer no special benefit. They still raise blood glucose levels, are highly processed, are usually more expensive and can also have a laxative effect if they contain sugar alcohols.

Myth #4. People with Diabetes are more likely to get colds.

You are no more likely to get a cold if you have Diabetes. The American Diabetes Assocation, does, however recommend that Diabetics get a flu shot.

Myth #5. Insulin causes weight gain and, because obesity is bad for you, insulin should not be taken.

Excess insulin in the blood stream caused by Insulin Resistance can be a factor in weight gain. But, for someone at risk of reversible Pre-Diabetes leading to irreversible Type 2 Diabetes, the goal is to control blood sugar levels. If this can't be achieved with diet and exercise, extra insulin may be a requirement if Type 2 develops.

Myth #6. Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is OK to eat as much of it as you wish.

Fruit is healthy because it contains fiber and lots of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. However, fruits also contain carbohydrate levels that are high on the Glycemic Index (GI). This means that your insulin requirement will be increased. For a person at risk of Pre-Diabetes turning into Type 2 Diabetes, the goal is to keep insulin requirements as low as possible. This can be accomplished by eating fruits sparingly and avoiding those with the highest glycemic content (e.g. pineapple, bananas) and finding lower glycemic fruits (e.g. blueberries and strawberries). Because fruit contains essential carbohydrates, it needs to be included in your meal plan. But talk to your nutritionist about the amount, frequency and types of fruit you should eat.

Myth #7. You don't need to change your Diabetes regimen unless your HbA1c blood glucose test is greater than 8%.

The better your glucose control, the less likely you are to develop complications of Diabetes. The HbA1c hyperglycemia test confirms how your blood sugar control has been for the past 120 days. The higher your blood sugar levels, the higher your HbA1c - the lower your blood sugar levels, the lower your HbA1c. A HbA1c in the 7% range does not represent good controls; the goal should be is less than 7%. The closer your HbA1c is to the normal range (less than 6%), the lower your chances of complications.

Myth #8. All Diabetics use insulin.

Pre-Diabetics do not use insulin and not all people with full-blown forms of Diabetes like irreversible Type 2 are required to use insulin if they are eating the right foods. Diabetics of every kind can eat a wide variety of food of the right type. Foods to be avoided are high glycemic index (GI) foods. Foods to be included in the diet of a Type 2 Diabetic include protein, green vegetables, good fats and some fruits. Exercise increases muscle disposal of glucose which keeps the blood sugar levels much lower. Combining proper food groups and regular exercise will help you maintain your blood sugar without the use of insulin.

Myth #9. Fat should be avoided by Pre-Diabetics.

Fats can be placed in two categories: bad and good. The bad fats include hydrogenated fats, which are also called trans-fatty aids:; these are solid at room temperature, like margarine and Crisco. The good fats are monosaturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, fish, olives and eggs. These fats actually increase your use of insulin and are recommended. Their benefits include better blood control by signaling to your brain that you are satisfied after a meal.

Myth #10. Pre-Diabetes cannot be reversed with all natural ingredients.

People at risk from reversible Pre-Diabetes can control their blood sugar with diet and exercise, together with elements such as chromium and vanadium. These minerals increase sensitivity to insulin, while other nutrients can boost the pancreas to produce more insulin. One example is Gymnema Sylvestre. Using nutraceuticals to reverse Pre-Diabetes requires vigilance about avoiding food that cause spikes in blood sugar, such as carbohydrates. Care should be taken to consume appropriate nutrients and get regular exercise to reduce weight.

Click here to read about Pre-Diabetes and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)