Top 4 Fallacies about Diabetes Management
Being diagnosed with uncontrolled blood sugars can be scary – where do you start with treatment? Plus, if you go on the Internet, there are so many articles about what you should or should not eat, and how to live your life in general. How does one sift through all of the information available?
4 Online Myths About Diabetes Treatment
1. Myth: I can never eat sweets again
Fact: Diabetes management is about what happens MOST of the time, not SOME of the time. Pick your favorite sweet- if you have a small serving once-twice a week, this is likely to not have a considerable effect on your A1C. If you have type 1 diabetes, you will have to dose insulin for this sweet treat.
2. Myth: Goodbye to potatoes, pasta, and bread
Fact: While these foods do contain carbohydrates, and thus raise blood sugars, these foods can fit into a healthy eating pattern in the right portions. Potatoes are packed full of important vitamins and minerals, including potassium, and even contain a little bit of fiber. White/refined grain pastas and breads don’t contain a whole lot of good nutrient power, but whole grain varieties can provide you with a healthy dose of B vitamins, protein, and fiber.
3. Myth: I have to work out for 2-3 hours/day
Fact: You don’t have to exhaust yourself doing CrossFit 2 hours a day to get the benefit exercise has of lowering blood sugars. The American Diabetes Association recommends 150 active minutes per week for people with diabetes. While most people see this as 30 minutes 5 days per week, you can split this up however you want. Just make it a point to move more and get your heart rate up!
4. Myth: I was just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes; I’m going to need to go on insulin someday.
Fact: While it is possible to need insulin for better blood sugar control with type 2 diabetes, many people are able to control type 2 diabetes through diet and exercise alone. Others need oral or non-insulin injectable medications to keep their blood sugars in check. Your diabetes treatment needs will all depend on your A1C level, your blood sugar patterns, and your personal medical history- your doctor will choose the best treatment regimen for you.
For additional guidance and support, reach out to our Diabetes Education team.
Jordan Bontrager, MMN, RD, LMNT is a registered dietitian/diabetes educator with CHI Health. She works with patients to come up with manageable ways to refine eating patterns and lifestyle habits in order to improve overall health. Jordan’s passion is to help others hone in on healthy habits so they can live their best lives.
