Diabetes Myths : Fact from Fiction

Myths are everywhere; they are a part of life. Diabetes is a disease that has its share of mythology. People who have diabetes, as well as those who are caring for diabetics, need to be able to separate the myths about diabetes from the facts. Fortunately, a lot of the mythical ideas about diabetes are not as negative or serious as they sound. In fact, most of them can be easily identified as simply untrue. However, there are myths about diabetes that can sound very true and there could be serious consequences for diabetics who mistakenly end up believing them. Below are two such myths.

* Hypoglycemia Causes Brain Damage

Diabetics are prone to episodes of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can happen without any warnings and they often leave diabetics with severe headaches that are typically accompanied by mass confusion and weakness. Because of these after effects of hypoglycemia, many people assume that hypoglycemia kills brain cells. Thus, diabetics who often experience hypoglycemia are having their brain damaged little by little, until they can't function anymore.

This assumption couldn't be any farther from the truth. Numerous studies have shown that hypoglycemia does not damage brain cells. Diabetics who experience the after effects of hypoglycemia still have their mental functions intact. However, children who experience hypoglycemia may lose some mental functioning since their brain is still underdeveloped.

The human body is able to produce and supply itself with hormones that can counter the effects of hypoglycemia. Also, diabetics can actually prevent hypoglycemia. For one, diabetics can check their blood sugar levels before they start any exercise that may lower their blood sugar levels. Diabetics can also help themselves by always carrying a supply of glucose (e.g., fruit juices or snacks) that they can quickly take in.

* Diabetics Shouldn't Exercise

This is actually a very dangerous myth about diabetes, and could have fatal consequences should a diabetic patient actually believe this myth. Exercise is a very important component of any diabetic regimen. People who have diabetes should exercise. Diabetics who are overweight or obese should exercise and lose weight to better manage their condition. Diabetics over 40 years are advised to condition their body by walking and doing light exercises. Once their body is used to exercising, they can gradually increase the intensity of their exercises. However, there are instances where it is not advisable for diabetics to exercise. For instance, diabetics who are suffering from severe kidney infection or hemorrhaging of the eyes should avoid doing any strenuous activities until the problem has passed.