Common Myths about Diabetes

 Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is what 90% of Americans with the disease have.  In Feb, 2020, the CDC reported 34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes; and 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes. With such a prevalence of the disease, the Medical News Today website explores some common myths surrounding the cause and treatment of the disease.  

One common misconception about type 2 diabetes is that it is caused by eating too much sugar.  While not strictly true, diabetes can be a result of a poor diet that includes too much sugar and leads to obesity, which is a risk factor for the disease.  However, to complicate the case, doctors do say there is evidence that suggests a high consumption of soda pop is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, although they are not sure why.  

There is also concern that too many people think diabetes is not a serious disease.  This thinking can lead to someone not managing the disease as they should, and result in dangerous complications.  Another myth is that obesity always causes diabetes.   Again medical professionals say while being overweight and obese are risk factor, the CDC’s National Diabetes Statistic Report, 2020, says “11% of people with type 2 diabetes in the U.S. are neither overweight nor obese.” 

Managing the disease well plays a huge role in outcomes.  For those who follow a good diet, maintain a healthy weight, control their blood pressure and cholesterol, stop smoking, and stay physically active, they can usually avoid dangerous complications.  Doctors also say by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, it is not inevitable that those with prediabetes have to develop type 2 diabetes.  

At the MorningStar at Arcadia senior living community, we are committed to creating a home that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing security and independence. Our residents enjoy healthy meals that are prepared largely from scratch and are modified to accommodate low sodium, sugar free, no sugar added, vegetarian and low-fat diets.  We recognize that staying physically active is one of the healthiest things we can all do for ourselves, so our community has a variety of exercise opportunities.  Please visit our website to see what sets us apart from other memory care and assisted living Phoenix offers.

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. If you are looking for exceptional memory care or assisted living, Phoenix’s MorningStar at Arcadia may be your answer.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-diabetes