Top 5 myths about diabetes
1. I have to stick to diabetic snacks and eat no sugar
This myth is not only misleading and inaccurate, but can also lead to further health problems. Always discuss with your doctor first, but most people with diabetes can still lead an active lifestyle, one that also includes sport. By assuming sport is not suitable, those with diabetes also run the risk of other complications associated with the condition such as heart disease.
Myth #2 – I am more likely to get a cold if I have diabetes
Although the leading cause of blindness if the UK is diabetes, this does not necessarily mean that those with diabetes will definitely go blind. There are a few measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of blindness and other common side-effects, including controlling blood fat, glucose and sugar levels, keeping fit and not smoking.
3. I cannot cut my own toenails if I have diabetes
Unfortunately, the leading cause of becoming blind in the UK is diabetes. However, this does not mean that having the condition will certainly lead to blindness. There are a few proven measures that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of becoming blind, including controlling sugar, glucose and blood fat levels, not smoking and keeping fit.
4. I cannot play sports if I have diabetes
Diabetes UK does not recommend the consumption of snacks such as diabetic chocolate or sweets as they can still affect the blood glucose levels and lead to diarrhoea. As long as a good balanced diet is followed, there is no reason why enjoying a small sugary snack every now and again shouldn’t be allowed. Again, this should be discussed with your doctor first to make sure.
5. I’m more likely to get ill with a cold if I have diabetes
For everyone, with or without diabetes, there is a healthy way to cut your own toenails. The correct way is to cut the nail to the shape of the toe (not straight with pointy sides) and not too short. As long as people cut their toenails to this shape, there is no reason why those with diabetes cannot do it themselves.
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