10 Diabetes Myths You’re Still Believing And The Hidden Risks They Come With
As we all know, diabetes is one of the most common and most misunderstood health conditions, especially for those living in India. And with the amounts of myths that surround this topic as well, it becomes difficult to understand the condition completely. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can delay diagnosis, worsen complications, or lead to poor management. Here are 10 common diabetes myths you might still believe, and the hidden risks they come with.
1. Myth: Eating sugar causes diabetes
Truth: Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors—not just sugar. Overconsumption of sugary foods can contribute to obesity, a risk factor, but sugar itself isn’t the direct cause.
Hidden Risk: Believing this might make you ignore other vital causes like insulin resistance or genetic predisposition.
2. Myth: Only overweight people get diabetes
Truth: While weight is a factor, even thin people can develop type 2 diabetes, especially if they have visceral fat or a family history.
Hidden Risk: Thin individuals may delay getting tested or ignore symptoms.
3. Myth: Diabetes isn’t serious
Truth: Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage.
Hidden Risk: Downplaying the disease may stop you from taking proactive steps.
4. Myth: You’ll know if you have high blood sugar
Truth: Many people with type 2 diabetes feel no symptoms until complications arise.
Hidden Risk: Undiagnosed diabetes can silently damage organs.
5. Myth: People with diabetes can’t eat carbs
Truth: Carbs are essential for energy. The key is to choose complex, fiber-rich carbs and monitor portions.
Hidden Risk: Eliminating carbs completely can cause nutritional imbalances.
6. Myth: Insulin is a last resort and causes dependency
Truth: Insulin is a life-saving hormone, not a punishment.
Hidden Risk: Avoiding insulin due to fear may worsen blood sugar control.
7. Myth: Natural remedies can cure diabetes
Truth: No herbal remedy can cure diabetes. Some may help with management, but only under medical supervision.
Hidden Risk: Relying solely on “natural” treatments may delay effective care.
8. Myth: Type 2 diabetes is mild
Truth: No form of diabetes is “mild.”
Hidden Risk: Ignoring type 2 can lead to life-altering complications.
9. Myth: Diabetics can’t live normal lives
Truth: With the right lifestyle and treatment, people with diabetes thrive.
Hidden Risk: This myth causes unnecessary fear and stigma.
10. Myth: Kids can’t get type 2 diabetes
Truth: Childhood obesity is rising, and with it, early-onset type 2 diabetes.
Hidden Risk: Parents may overlook symptoms in young children.
