home
RSS
Five diabetes myths, busted
June 24th, 2011
09:47 AM ET

Five diabetes myths, busted

David Kendall, M.D., is the chief scientific and medical officer of the The American Diabetes Association. The group’s 71st Scientific Sessions begin Friday in San Diego, California, with presentations of the latest research, treatment recommendations and advances toward a cure for diabetes.

Each year diabetes accounts for more deaths than breast cancer and AIDS combined. While diabetes (both type 1 and type 2) is ever more manageable because of advances in medication, a better understanding of blood glucose monitoring and new technologies for delivering insulin, uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes still remains the leading cause of blindness in adults, kidney failure and amputation.

There are many myths about diabetes - myths that can do much harm. Many believe that diabetes is “just a touch of sugar,” or only something we develop in later life.

Although diabetes is manageable, the diabetes epidemic continues to grow; every 17 seconds someone is diagnosed with diabetes and at the current rate, one in three people in the U.S. will have diabetes by the year 2050.

Knowing the facts (and your own risk) can help all of us fight the misconceptions associated with this awful disease and ultimately stop diabetes.

So take a minute to learn the facts about diabetes. The more we know, the better equipped we are to detect, prevent and treat diabetes and its deadly complications.

1) Myth: Diabetes is really no big deal.

Fact: As I’ve already noted, diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. The risk of heart problems is more than twice as high in people with diabetes and two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke. Uncontrolled diabetes also leads to a host of other complications.

2) Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Fact: There is no one food or nutrient that causes diabetes. Type 1 diabetes (where all of the body’s insulin producing cells are destroyed) develops both because of genetics and from poorly understood environmental triggers that result in the onset of the disease. Type 2 diabetes is the result of both genetic and lifestyle factors.

There is no question that being overweight or obese increases your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Weight gain occurs as a result of excess calories, and whether these calories come from a soda, breads, snacks or meat doesn’t generally matter. Because of genetics, some people gain weight more easily than others, but there is still an imbalance between calories eaten and those burned off.

Because of the complex relationship between genetics, the environment and lifestyle, it is incorrect to say that sugar causes diabetes.

3) Myth: If you are overweight or obese, you will eventually develop type 2 diabetes.

Fact: As we stated earlier, being overweight is a very important risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, it is the most important modifiable risk factor. Other risk factors such as a family history of type 2 diabetes, ethnicity and age are things that you cannot change.

It is also true that most overweight people never develop type 2 diabetes, and as many as one-fourth of people with type 2 diabetes are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight. The thing to keep in mind is that if you have a family history of diabetes, you should do your best to be physically active and eat a healthy diet. If you are overweight, losing about 7% of your weight (14 pounds for a 200 pound person) can help delay or prevent diabetes.

4) Myth: If you have diabetes, you can’t eat any bread, potatoes, pasta, fruit, sugar or dessert.

Fact: This is a long-held misconception about the carbohydrates in food. With carbohydrates - and calories in general - it all comes back to portion sizes or how much you eat.

Starchy foods and fruit can be included in a meal plan for people with diabetes. The best tip is to have no more than 1/4 of your plate from starchy foods like whole grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice or starchy vegetables like potatoes, yams, peas and corn.

Fill half of your plate with low carbohydrate non-starchy vegetables like salad, broccoli, green beans or tomatoes. The last quarter of your plate is for fish, chicken, lean meats or meat substitutes. This helps to control the amount of carbohydrate that you eat while providing lots of fiber and healthy food choices.

5) Myth: People with diabetes can't eat sweets or chocolate.

Fact: Sweet foods (including most dessert items), if eaten in small portions, can be eaten by people with diabetes. There is no such thing as a “off limit” food; however, the key is substituting in a sweet treat into an otherwise healthy meal plan.

Everyone - diabetes or no diabetes - should avoid empty calories (those without real food value) and limit the total amount of calories they consume (and yes, most desserts are high in calories).

Post by:
Filed under: Diabetes

soundoff (2,875 Responses)
  1. sfweekly.com CBD For Dogs

    Not many authors with appropriate expertise of the subjects they write about.

    https://www.sfweekly.com/uncategorized/best-cbd-oil-for-dogs-in-2019-cbd-oil-for-pets-reviews/

    February 27, 2021 at 22:43 | Report abuse | Reply
  2. 더킹카지노주소

    http://bbs.ffsky.com/home.php?mod=space&uid=5935675

    February 28, 2021 at 06:33 | Report abuse | Reply
  3. zipper wallet insert for travelers notebook 2020

    With havin a great deal content and articles have you ever encounter
    any problems of plagorism or copyright infringement? My blog provides extensive unique content I've either created myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it
    is popping it up all around the internet without my permission. Are you aware any solutions to help stop content
    from being stolen? I'd truly appreciate it.

    my blog post ... zipper wallet insert for travelers notebook 2020

    February 28, 2021 at 08:33 | Report abuse | Reply
  4. ClarkTauts

    cb9je 3m4ti 4dwf

    February 28, 2021 at 09:33 | Report abuse | Reply
  5. ClarkTauts

    jvm9f r3ank rl16

    February 28, 2021 at 13:27 | Report abuse | Reply
  6. ClarkTauts

    ajwow kqoxf asar

    February 28, 2021 at 19:00 | Report abuse | Reply
  7. https://www.songmanhits.com

    Best view i have ever seen !

    https://images.google.vg/url?q=https://www.songmanhits.com

    February 28, 2021 at 19:52 | Report abuse | Reply
  8. Insulina

    Concise and well written, tyvm for the information

    http://www.cukrzyca.xmc.pl

    March 1, 2021 at 04:27 | Report abuse | Reply
  9. KndnMile

    how much does viagra cost at walmart? red viagra pills viagra at walmart

    March 1, 2021 at 07:32 | Report abuse | Reply
  10. NbmoZisse

    cialis 20mg pills cialis soft tabs, united states origin cialis online

    March 1, 2021 at 13:05 | Report abuse | Reply
  11. ClarkTauts

    ni5nb joxm4 5kn8

    March 2, 2021 at 00:10 | Report abuse | Reply
  12. Medicare Leads

    This design is incredible! You definitely know how to keep a reader amused. Between your wit and your videos, I was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost...HaHa!) Excellent job. I really enjoyed what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it. Too cool!

    https://telemail.jp/_pcsite/?des=015660&gsn=0156603&url=insurancelead.net

    March 2, 2021 at 04:42 | Report abuse | Reply
  13. Superheater tubing specification

    Keep up the excellent work and generating the crowd!

    https://www.scoop.it/u/alysa-rees-5

    March 2, 2021 at 09:08 | Report abuse | Reply
  14. Best Mutual Funds

    I was suggested this blog by means of my cousin. I am not positive whether or not this submit is written by him as no one else know such precise approximately my difficulty. You're incredible! Thank you!

    http://ourgiftcards.com/__media__/js/netsoltrademark.php?d=safemutualfund.com

    March 2, 2021 at 13:19 | Report abuse | Reply
  15. replica watches waterproof skeleton watch replica

    Wow, lovely portal. Thnx ...

    https://fajrinteriors.com/wp-includes/random_compat/5461.html

    March 3, 2021 at 00:02 | Report abuse | Reply
  16. Breaking News

    you are really a good webmaster. The site loading speed is incredible. It seems that you are doing any unique trick. Furthermore, The contents are masterwork. you've done a fantastic job on this topic!

    https://historyhub.history.gov/external-link.jspa?url=https://www.breakingnewsmail.com

    March 3, 2021 at 09:32 | Report abuse | Reply
  17. Political News

    Its such as you learn my mind! You appear to understand so much approximately this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you just can do with a few p.c. to force the message house a bit, however instead of that, this is wonderful blog. An excellent read. I'll certainly be back.

    https://www.semrush.com/analytics/backlinks/overview/?q=breakingnewsmail.com&searchType=domain

    March 3, 2021 at 11:35 | Report abuse | Reply
  18. Cecily Poskey

    Encontre as Melhores Ofertas e Cupons no Os10Melhor. Reunimos promoções de Smartphones, TVs, Moda e muito mais. O menor preço nas melhores lojas.

    https://t.me/s/os10melhores

    March 4, 2021 at 00:20 | Report abuse | Reply
  19. Margy Buchko

    UndeniablyUnquestionablyDefinitely believe that which you statedsaid. Your favorite justificationreason appeared to beseemed to be on the internetnetweb the simplesteasiest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I definitelycertainly get irkedannoyed while people considerthink about worries that they plainlyjust do notdon't know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top as well asand alsoand defined out the whole thing without having side effectside-effects , people cancould take a signal. Will likelyprobably be back to get more. Thanks

    https://www.viki.com/users/bestledgaragelights_397/about

    March 4, 2021 at 03:14 | Report abuse | Reply
  20. 바라카사이트

    http://rd.am/www.crystalxp.net/redirect.php?url=https://list.ly/gobnetqhte

    March 4, 2021 at 03:57 | Report abuse | Reply
  21. 우리카지노계열

    I absolutely love your website.. Great colors & theme. Did you develop this web site yourself? Please reply back as Iím looking to create my very own website and would love to learn where you got this from or what the theme is called. Many thanks!

    https://vidrodzhennya.in.ua/user/casino7m0tvakt069

    March 4, 2021 at 05:17 | Report abuse | Reply
  22. 바라카사이트

    A fascinating discussion is definitely worth comment. I think that you need to write more on this subject, it may not be a taboo matter but generally people do not speak about such topics. To the next! All the best!!

    http://nybookmark.com/submit

    March 4, 2021 at 08:09 | Report abuse | Reply
  23. Yuk Buckwald

    Encontre as Melhores Ofertas e Cupons no Os10Melhores. Reunimos promoções de Smartphones, TVs, Moda e muito mais. O menor preço nas melhores lojas.

    http://www.ipcdaknong.com.vn/vn/raovat/1236/cadeirasgamer-46228.html

    March 4, 2021 at 08:19 | Report abuse | Reply
  24. Gail Ulery

    Excellent blog here! Also your website loads up fast! What host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my website loaded up as fast as yours lol

    https://www.electricpercolatorcoffeepot.com/10-top-coffee-bloggers/

    March 4, 2021 at 10:53 | Report abuse | Reply
  25. 출장안마

    https://hubpages.com/@diggercut9

    March 4, 2021 at 11:27 | Report abuse | Reply
  26. 우리카지노

    http://sc.sie.gov.hk/TuniS/zenwriting.net/desirehelen1/understanding-the-right-way-to-play-craps

    March 4, 2021 at 17:23 | Report abuse | Reply
  27. 우리카지노계열

    I really like it when individuals come together and share thoughts. Great website, continue the good work!

    http://altbookmark.com/story9372888/on-line-gamblers-tips-for-avoiding-addictions

    March 4, 2021 at 20:56 | Report abuse | Reply
  28. https://musescore.com

    Have you ever thought about adding a little bit
    more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is important and all.
    However just imagine if you added some great images or
    videos to give your posts more, "pop"! Your content is excellent
    but with pics and videos, this blog could definitely be one of the very best in its niche.

    Great blog!

    March 4, 2021 at 23:12 | Report abuse | Reply
  29. Ethan Eilderts

    Confira nossa seleção de cupons de desconto das principais lojas da internet. Para que encontre apenas códigos válidos, nossa equipe verifica cada cupom.

    https://t.me/s/os10melhores

    March 5, 2021 at 00:58 | Report abuse | Reply
  30. microsoft office home and business 2019 best buy

    It is perfect time to make a few plans for the longer term and it's time to be happy. I have learn this publish and if I may I want to counsel you some attention-grabbing things or suggestions. Perhaps you can write subsequent articles referring to this article. I desire to read even more issues approximately it!

    http://www.mengsns.com/home.php?mod=space&uid=1692445

    March 5, 2021 at 05:35 | Report abuse | Reply
  31. 바카라사이트주소

    Greetings! Very useful advice within this post! It is the little changes which will make the largest changes. Thanks for sharing!

    http://ssomgmt.ascd.org/profile/createsso/createsso.aspx?returnurl=https://zenwriting.net/casino3t5xjjog211/img-src-i-ytimg-com-vi-qxwnnkxpsh8-hq720-jpg

    March 5, 2021 at 06:13 | Report abuse | Reply
  32. microsoft office home and business 2019 price

    It’s actually a great and useful piece of information. I am glad that you shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.

    http://web.sfusd.edu/Services/research_public/Lists/Sample20Copy/DispForm.aspx?ID=791353

    March 5, 2021 at 08:15 | Report abuse | Reply
  33. 바카라사이트주소

    https://www.fastbookmarks.win/10-compelling-reasons-why-you-need-bakalasaiteu-15

    March 5, 2021 at 09:45 | Report abuse | Reply
  34. 먹튀검증

    http://jorconsulate.com/newen/index.php?option=com_k2&view=itemlist&task=user&id=478236

    March 5, 2021 at 15:51 | Report abuse | Reply
  35. Website

    I am very happy to read this. This is the kind of manual that needs to be given and not the random misinformation that is at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this greatest doc.

    https://www.boredpanda.com/author/gregersendinesen24wynimb/

    March 5, 2021 at 16:43 | Report abuse | Reply
  36. office home and student 2019 key license

    fantastic points altogether, you simply gained a brand new reader. What would you recommend about your post that you made a few days ago? Any positive?

    https://everyeventgives.com/members/shovelwasp8/activity/274634/

    March 5, 2021 at 19:27 | Report abuse | Reply
  37. 먹티사이트

    I was able to find good information from your blog posts.

    https://backforgood.faith/wiki/The_Few_Recommendations_About_Trying_to_play_Pai_Cow

    March 6, 2021 at 01:00 | Report abuse | Reply
  38. 먹튀검증

    Itís hard to come by well-informed people on this subject, but you seem like you know what youíre talking about! Thanks

    http://answerpail.com/index.php?qa=user&qa_1=bayera68

    March 6, 2021 at 02:29 | Report abuse | Reply
  39. double eyelashes

    I know this website provides quality based articles and extra stuff,
    is there any other website which provides these things in quality?

    March 6, 2021 at 06:58 | Report abuse | Reply
  40. windows 10 home license cost

    Hello my friend! I want to say that this post is awesome, nice written and include approximately all significant infos. I would like to see more posts like this.

    https://firsturl.de/0QW86e5

    March 6, 2021 at 10:51 | Report abuse | Reply
  41. Isiah Borla

    https://www.electricpercolatorcoffeepot.com/10-top-coffee-bloggers/

    March 6, 2021 at 14:03 | Report abuse | Reply
  42. windows 10 home price

    Pretty great post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to say that I have truly loved browsing your blog posts. In any case I will be subscribing for your feed and I am hoping you write once more soon!

    https://myspace.com/trunkshop96

    March 6, 2021 at 14:03 | Report abuse | Reply
  43. cheap dumpster rental new york

    https://wastesolutions123.com/cheap-dumpster-rental-new-york/

    March 7, 2021 at 05:04 | Report abuse | Reply
  44. buy windows 10 download

    You are a very bright person!

    https://pbase.com/topics/museumboat92/windows_10_price_cheapest_wi

    March 7, 2021 at 07:14 | Report abuse | Reply
  45. windows 10 pro retail

    There is noticeably a bundle to learn about this. I assume you made sure nice factors in features also.

    https://matchbay65.wordpress.com/2021/01/04/windows-10-price-low-with-guarantee/

    March 7, 2021 at 09:13 | Report abuse | Reply
  46. 사설토토

    I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I certainly enjoyed every bit of it. I have got you saved as a favorite to look at new things you postÖ

    http://pesfm.org/members/bulbclub67/activity/1478474/

    March 7, 2021 at 11:48 | Report abuse | Reply
  47. 사설토토사이트

    After looking over a handful of the blog posts on your website, I truly like your technique of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark webpage list and will be checking back in the near future. Please check out my web site too and let me know what you think.

    https://fakenews.win/wiki/POWER_Universe_The_Dark_Knight_Recaps

    March 7, 2021 at 23:09 | Report abuse | Reply
  48. windows key price

    Excellent read, I just passed this onto a colleague who was doing some research on that. And he actually bought me lunch because I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thanks for lunch!

    http://lida-stan.by/user/jewelmile7/

    March 8, 2021 at 15:56 | Report abuse | Reply
  49. 사설토토

    https://wowservices.info/index.php?page=search&sCategory=76

    March 8, 2021 at 18:47 | Report abuse | Reply
  50. 안전토토사이트

    https://www.chilterntraveller.co.uk/members/sexroof51/activity/1060170/

    March 8, 2021 at 23:45 | Report abuse | Reply
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57

Leave a Reply to zortilonrel


 

CNN welcomes a lively and courteous discussion as long as you follow the Rules of Conduct set forth in our Terms of Service. Comments are not pre-screened before they post. You agree that anything you post may be used, along with your name and profile picture, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the license you have granted pursuant to our Terms of Service.

Advertisement
About this blog

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the latest stories from CNN Chief Medical Correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Senior Medical Correspondent Elizabeth Cohen and the CNN Medical Unit producers. They'll share news and views on health and medical trends - info that will help you take better care of yourself and the people you love.