Diabetes can limit you from enjoying your life to the fullest. However, with the right healthcare tools and attitude, you can improve your daily life and minimize risks such as amputation and loss of life. Although many people are aware of the negative effects of unmanaged diabetes New York, several myths may hinder them from prioritizing their health and seeking treatment when necessary. The following are myths that you should not believe:
- Diabetes only affects obese people.
While obesity is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, it is not the only factor. Other risk factors include family history, age, inactivity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Additionally, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that cannot occur due to obesity. It occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is not influenced by lifestyle factors or weight, and it can happen to anyone regardless of weight.
- Eating sugar causes diabetes.
Eating sugar does not cause diabetes. Diabetes is a complex health condition due to genetic and environmental factors. While a diet high in added sugars can result in weight gain and an increased risk of obesity, it is not the sole cause of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body’s cells become resistant to insulin, and the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.
Eating a diet high in added sugars can elevate the risk of type 2 diabetes by contributing to weight gain and obesity. However, it is not the only factor. Although high sugar intake is unhealthy, it is not the main cause of diabetes; maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise is the key to preventing or managing it.
- Prediabetes always leads to diabetes.
Prediabetes is when an individual’s blood glucose levels are higher than expected but not as high as those of diabetes. Prediabetes is often a reversible condition. You can prevent it from progressing to diabetes through lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. While some people with prediabetes may eventually develop diabetes, it is not a guaranteed outcome. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and working closely with a healthcare provider can help individuals with prediabetes make necessary changes to prevent the progression of diabetes.
- Diabetes always leads to amputation.
While diabetes can increase the risk of foot problems and amputations, it does not always lead to amputation. With proper management of diabetes, including regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, foot care, and prompt treatment of any foot problems, the risk of amputation can be greatly reduced. It is important to take extra care of your feet, as diabetes can cause damage to the nerves in the feet, making it difficult for you to feel pain, heat, or cold, which can lead to injuries or infections that go unnoticed, increasing the risk of amputation.
Call the East Side Primary Medical Care office or book your appointment online for comprehensive care.
