Diabetes, a chronic metabolic condition that is characterised by high blood-sugar levels, affects around 422 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation. However, despite being a common condition today, diabetes continues to have various myths associated with it.
From eating certain foods to avoiding many others, people tend to mismanage the disease a lot of times due to lack of awareness. As such, here is nutritionist Lovneet Batra busting some common myths.
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“Diabetes is so common, yet there are still many misconceptions about its causes, treatments and how living with diabetes affects your everyday routine. Bust the myths, and you’re on your way to better management of the disease,” she said.
Fact: Carbs aren’t your enemy. It’s not the carb itself, but the type of carb, the quantity of carb you eat and the timing that is important to consider for those with diabetes
Myth 2: Diabetes can have as much “fat” as they want
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Fact: Having type 2 diabetes and eating a lot of foods high in saturated fat can increase your unhealthy cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Myth 3: Opting for artificial sweetener is a safer choice
Fact: Artificial sweeteners may worsen insulin resistance. Just because an item is labelled as “sugar-free” does not make it better for you. It may still contain a lot of simple carbs, fat or calories. Opt for real foods over chemicals.
Myth 4: If you are on medication, you can eat sweets
Fact: Taking diabetes medication isn’t a ticket to eat sweets. “Medication, as prescribed, is important along with a nutrient dense diet in order to manage diabetes and other complications,” said Batra.
Myth 5: Diabetes is a life-long struggle which cannot be reversed
Fact: “Diabetes can be reversed with right interventions,” said Batra.
“Don’t fall for these diabetes myths! Talk to your nutritionist or doctor if you have any concerns about your risk of diabetes,” she remarked.
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Here's how to better manage diabetes. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock) 
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