What Diabetologists Wish Every Patient Knew About Diabetes
Diabetes is a complex and chronic condition that affects millions of people across India, a country facing a rapidly increasing burden of this disease. Despite its prevalence, many myths and misunderstandings about diabetes persist among patients and the public. Indian diabetologists, drawing on their extensive clinical experience and awareness of cultural attitudes, often emphasize essential truths they wish every patient understood—truths that empower better management, reduce complications, and improve quality of life.
1. Diabetes Is a Manageable Condition, Not a Life Sentence
Many patients initially feel overwhelmed or fearful upon
diagnosis. Indian diabetologists want patients to understand that with proper
management, diabetes can be controlled effectively. This means:
- Adopting
a balanced diet
- Regular
physical activity
- Taking
prescribed medications or insulin as advised
- Monitoring
blood sugar levels consistently
Good management can prevent or delay serious complications
like heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss, conditions
often feared by patients. Diabetes is not a death sentence but a condition
requiring lifelong attention and adaptation.
2. Eating Sugar Does Not Directly Cause Diabetes
A pervasive myth is that eating sugar causes diabetes.
Indian diabetologists clarify that diabetes, especially type 2, is due
to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and metabolic factors—not simply sugar
intake. However, consuming too many sugary foods and drinks can contribute
to weight gain, which increases diabetes risk.
Sugar in moderation can be part of a healthy diet if overall
carbohydrate intake is controlled. Indian diabetologists encourage patients to
focus on quantity, type, and quality of carbohydrates rather
than eliminating sugar outright. Complex carbohydrates from whole grains,
vegetables, fruits, and legumes are preferable.
3. Weight Is a Risk Factor but Not the Only One
While excess weight is a significant risk factor for type 2
diabetes, many Indian diabetologists emphasize that not all people with
diabetes are overweight, and not everyone overweight develops diabetes. Other
important factors include:
- Family
history of diabetes
- Sedentary
lifestyle
- Age
- Ethnicity
and genetic predisposition
This nuanced understanding helps reduce stigma and
encourages patients to focus on healthy lifestyle practices rather than just
weight loss.
4. Healthy Eating Does Not Mean a “Special” Diabetes Diet
Patients often believe they must eat completely different
foods or buy special diabetes-labeled products. Diabetologists stress that
patients do not need a special diet but should follow a
balanced, nutritious diet that suits their cultural preferences.
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are
encouraged. Although portion control and carbohydrate counting matter, foods
"marketed" as diabetic-friendly (like sugar-free sweets) can
sometimes be high in unhealthy fats and calories and are often unnecessary.
5. Symptoms Can Be Subtle or Absent
Many patients think diabetes symptoms are obvious. However,
Indian diabetologists remind that type 2 diabetes develops gradually,
and many people have mild or no symptoms for years. Regular screening
is essential, especially for those with risk factors, to diagnose diabetes
before complications develop.
Common signs to watch for include excessive thirst, frequent
urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing, but absence of
these does not guarantee health.
6. Insulin Is Not a Last Resort or a Sign of Failure
There is significant fear around insulin use, viewed as a
sign that diabetes has worsened or that treatment has failed. Indian
diabetologists wish to dispel this myth by clarifying that starting
insulin can be necessary for good blood sugar control at any stage of
diabetes.
Early and appropriate use of insulin can prevent
complications, and modern insulin regimens are flexible and effective for many
patients. Education on insulin use is crucial for acceptance and
adherence.
7. Herbal and Home Remedies Are Not Cures
Many patients turn to herbal treatments or traditional
remedies hoping for a cure. Indian diabetologists strongly caution that no
herbal or alternative remedy can cure diabetes.
While some herbal supplements may have a role as supportive
agents for some individuals, they cannot replace conventional treatment
involving lifestyle changes and medication. Relying solely on such
remedies delays effective management and increases risk of complications.
8. Diabetes Treatment Is Lifelong
A common misconception is that diabetes treatment can be
stopped once blood sugar normalizes. Indian diabetologists emphasize that diabetes
is a chronic condition requiring ongoing treatment and monitoring even
if early control is achieved.
Stopping treatment can cause blood sugar to rise again,
aggravating complications.
9. Emotional and Psychological Support Matters
Psychological burden and diabetes distress are often
overlooked. Indian diabetologists underscore the importance of addressing mental
health challenges related to diabetes, such as stress, anxiety, and
depression, which can affect disease control.
Seeking support from counselors, support groups, or diabetes
educators can improve motivation and adherence to treatment.
10. Regular Follow-Up and Monitoring Are Essential
Indian diabetologists advocate that successful diabetes
management depends on regular check-ups, lab tests, and monitoring for
complications.
Routine monitoring helps to adjust treatment plans timely
and prevent long-term damage. Patients should understand that missing
appointments or irregular follow-up can be detrimental.
11. Lifestyle Changes Are Fundamental
Diet and exercise remain pillars of diabetes care. Indian
diabetologists encourage:
- Incorporating
30 minutes of moderate exercise most days
- Reducing
intake of refined carbs and saturated fats
- Avoiding
tobacco and limiting alcohol intake
Sustained lifestyle change improves insulin sensitivity,
blood sugar, and overall health, reducing medication needs.
12. Diabetes Can Affect Anyone
In India’s diverse population, diabetologists remind
that diabetes can affect all age groups, including children and young
adults, especially with increasing obesity trends. Awareness needs to
extend beyond older adults or those with classic risk profiles.
In Summary :
Indian diabetologists wish every patient knew that diabetes
is a serious yet manageable condition, surrounded by many myths and
misconceptions. Understanding the true nature of diabetes, embracing balanced
nutrition, regular exercise, prescribed treatments (including insulin when
needed), and continuous follow-up can empower patients to lead healthy lives
without needless fear or stigma.
Education tailored to individual cultural contexts and
dispelling misinformation is key to improving diabetes outcomes in India’s vast
and varied population.
Dr Aravinda J
References
Mount Sinai - Diabetes myths and facts, 2023
British Heart Foundation - Myths about diet and diabetes, 2019
Medical News Today - Dispelling 11 common myths about diabetes, 2020
American Diabetes Association - Know your facts about diabetes
Merck - Debunking type 2 diabetes misconceptions, 2024
Duke Health - 5 common myths about type 2 diabetes
PMC - Popular misconceptions regarding the diabetes, 2013
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