Diabetes is not caused by eating too much sugar and three other shocking facts revealed
More than 70 million people suffer from diabetes in India, making it the diabetes capital of the world. There is a fair chance that someone in your family is suffering from diabetes. Despite the prevalence of diabetes, there are many facts that we're unaware of.
Here are five such surprising facts about diabetes that you must know for a better understanding of the condition.
Myth: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar
Fact: Sugary foods, a glass of soda and processed foods directly do not increase your risk of diabetes. All these things increase your risk of obesity, which can lead to diabetes. But eating too much sugar is not the cause of diabetes. The link between sugar and diabetes is not a simple one.
The most common form of diabetes, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body is not responsive to the amount of insulin it produces. Over time, the body is not able to make enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Being overweight and obese or having a family history are the main causes of diabetes.
Myth: People suffering from diabetes cannot eat sweets
Fact: Sweets are not off the radar if you have diabetes. If you want to enjoy a piece of cake, you need some planning. People suffering from diabetes can never eat sugar is a myth.
Counting carbohydrates every time you eat something is a vital part of maintaining blood sugar levels. Sweets and cookies have carbs, so keeping a count helps diabetic patients to keep their blood glucose levels under check.
A small piece of cake can be consumed in place of another carb-rich food.
Myth: Gestational diabetes means your baby will also get diabetes
Fact: Around 9 per cent of women become insulin resistant during pregnancy and develop gestational diabetes. This does not mean that your baby will have diabetes. Consult your ob-gyn and diabetes specialist to manage the condition.
High blood sugar levels can lead to your baby producing more insulin overtime, which can put your baby at risk of high birth weight, low blood glucose levels, obesity, breathing issues and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Myth: Diabetes cannot affect your mental health
Fact: People with diabetes can get overwhelmed with emotions. They might feel angry, depressed or anxious. It can be stressful to check your blood glucose level multiple times a day.