15 Popular Diabetes Myths That Might Affect Your Health Too (Part. II)
In our previous post, we found out more about 7 of the most common myths people still believe about diabetes. I hope you’ve found the series useful – at least I know I did since there were some things even I wasn’t aware of.
Today, we’re back for a second round of myths debunked about one of the most common illnesses in our country. If you’re ready, let’s have a look!
Myth #8: People with diabetes should adopt the same diet
Fact: People should keep a personalized diet which suits their body shape, goals and health needs.
I’m sorry to break it to you, but there’s no such thing as a diet that works for everybody. Our bodies, our medical history, our location, financial possibilities and genetics all play a major part in how we process foods. Some people can eat chocolate for breakfast, lunch and dinner and never gain a pound (we all have that lucky friend, right?) while others have always been prone to weight gain.
The same principle applies to diabetes as well. While there are a few general tips recommended to everyone, there’s no such thing as the perfect diet for everyone.
However, there are indeed a few foods which may hurt everybody diagnosed with diabetes (and not only). Here are the 7 worst foods you can eat for diabetes along with their healthier alternatives.
Myth #9: You will lose a limb
Fact: Limb amputation is a serious diabetes complication which generally occurs if a patient leaves their condition untreated for a longer time.
This is perhaps the scariest myth about diabetes – but luckily, it’s nothing but a myth.
Maria Elena Rodriguez, diabetes program manager at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York, explains that people who manage their blood sugar levels and follow the lifestyle recommendations issued by their specialist are extremely unlikely to develop such complications.
However, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take the risk seriously.
Diabetes affects nerves around the foot area while restricting normal blood flow to the feet; not only does this cause extensive bleeding in case of injury, but it also prevents proper healing. Therefore, it might be a good idea to get an annual foot exam just to make sure everything is okay in that area.
