More and more people are becoming diagnosed as Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics each year, which means that there are more and more people talking about the disease. And while spreading the word about diabetes is a good thing, there are also an awful lot of misconceptions out there. So, whether you’re a fellow diabetic, or have a loved one who is, this debunking session just might teach you a thing or two.
Misconception #5: Your Blood Glucose Must Always be on Target
The best way to describe life with diabetes is like being on a roller coaster ride. There are ups, there are downs, and there are even times when things go upside down and backwards. One thing that makes this ride with diabetes so difficult is the number of different things that can throw off the delicate balance needed to keep your blood sugar within range. Some everyday situations that can raise your blood sugar levels are stress, hormone changes, illness, certain medications, lack of sleep, and emotional changes, just to name a few. Just because your blood sugar is higher or lower than it should be doesn’t mean that you’re not taking care of yourself. Its a perfectly normal thing to have spikes, but if your blood glucose continues to drop too low or shoot too high, it’s a good idea to see your doctor right away, as you might need a slight adjustment in your medication or diet.
Misconception #4: You’ll End Up in the Hospital if You Get Sick
While it is true that diabetes weakens the immune system, making it easier to catch whatever is going around, that doesn’t necessarily mean that if you catch a cold you’re doomed. However, there is a tiny bit of truth hidden in this misconception. Because a diabetic’s immune system is weaker than the average bear, they typically get sicker and stay sick longer. It also presents an issue with spikes in blood sugar due to the fact that any infection in the body will cause those reading to rise. To remedy this, make sure to get a Flu shot every year, and try to stay away from those whom you know to be sick. But, don’t worry- if you do happen to catch something, it can be treated easily with some strong antibiotics.
Misconception #3: Being Overweight Caused Your Diabetes
Contrary to popular belief, a persons weight doesn’t always have to do with whether or not they have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can often be brought on by obesity and poor diet choices, but making changes to your diet and lifestyle, including dropping some weight will usually kick type 2 to the curb. However, for the type 1 diabetics out there, weight is rarely an issue. If the circumstances are right, diabetes can affect your life no matter what size you are.
Misconception #2: You Can’t Eat Sugars or Carbohydrates… Ever!
This seems to be the biggest misconception out there about diabetes. Many people seem to be under the impression that if you have diabetes, you only eat to survive. But they may be surprised to learn that diabetics can enjoy food and snacks just like regular people! A diabetic having carbs is no big deal, but it is important to make sure there are enough of the right kind of carbs going into your daily diet. Instead of having a donut every morning with your coffee, try a piece of wheat toast with a little peanut butter instead. But definitely don’t feel bad about splurging every now and then. Just make sure to keep a close watch on your blood sugar, and don’t worry about what other people say- you know your body better than anyone else!
Misconception #1: Diabetics Are Weaker Than Anyone Else in the World
Weak? Please! Diabetics are survivors. We handle more finger pricks and shots in a month than most do in a year, and we’re great at counting carbs and knowing exactly how much insulin to give with our favorite meals. Diabetics may have to take breaks a little more often than others, but that doesn’t make us any different than anyone else on the planet. Don’t ever let anyone give you the impression that you can’t do whatever it is that you want to do just because of your health. If you take care of yourself, you can achieve whatever your heart desires. Just like those who are battling similar diseases, diabetics are strong, persistent, and as my grandmother says, we’re “just a little bit sweeter than everyone else!”
Adventures in Diabetic Land 