Myths and facts about diabetes

Myths and facts about diabetes There are several myths about Diabetes, one example is that diabetics must totally avoid all sugars. The fact is a diabetic CAN have their favorite desert as long as they plan properly and make it part of a healthy meal plan and, of course, combine this diet with an exercise plan. Some believe a high protein diet is best which is not true. In fact, studies have shown too much protein, like animal protein may cause insulin resistance. A healthy diet consists of proteins, carbs and fat, which all people need to function properly. Some recommend that Type 2 patients should have at least 45 to 60 grams of carbs per meal and 15 to 30 carbs per snack. Just be careful because any food with carbs will digest as sugar and will result in a sugar spike. Most doctors suggest focusing on good carbs like whole grains because they are high in fiber and will digest slowly and that will help keep blood sugars level. Carbohydrates play a huge part in a diabetics sugar levels. But they don’t have to avoid them all together. In general, it is best to avoid refined carbs like white breads, pasta’s and rice, as well as sugary drinks, soda, candy and sugary snack foods. Focus on high-fiber complex carbs instead. Good examples are to eat brown rice rather than white rice and instead of regular pasta eat wheat pasta. Another myth is that diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar. The facts are type 1 is caused by genetics and unknown factors. Type 2 is genetic and lifestyle factors like being overweight. Some people believe only kids have type 1 diabetes. The fact is Type 1 formerly known as “juvenile” diabetes is often diagnosed in children but the illness can develop at any age, as well as type 2. Some also believe that taking insulin cures diabetes, which can’t be the farther from the truth. Taking insulin keeps diabetics alive but does not cure it. Another myth that is very misleading is that since diabetes doesn’t run in your family you won’t get it. The truth is not only does family history play a part in the developing of diabetes but there are other ways as well, like your pancreas has stopped working. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund otherwise known as JDRF is a diabetes foundation whose sole purpose is to end Type 1 Diabetes. The JDRF has raised millions of dollars for research throughout the years through hard work and sponsors. On May 17, 2015 the JDRF will sponsoring a walk on the Capital Complex on 1900 Kanawha Blvd. Charleston West Virginia. Check in time for this event will be at 11 am. The race will start at 2 pm and the walkers will walk for 2 miles. There is also a Diabetes walk for adults in Charleston but a date has not yet been set. For more information on this go to http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR/Walk/Branch-WestVirginia4719?pg=entry&fr_id=4768 for children and http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR/Walk/Branch-WestVirginia4719?team_id=174862&pg=team&fr_id=4768 for adults. Researched by: Carrie Nicholas