A diagnosis of diabetes can give rise to many emotions and questions. With so much information available, particularly through searching the internet, it can be overwhelming and confusing. It’s important to seek information from trusted sources. Your diabetes healthcare team can signpost to reputable sources of support.

There is a wealth of information on our site to give a clear understanding of what Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is all about, and the support that we offer.

There are many ‘myths’ that have been voiced regarding diabetes over the years. It’s good to know the fact and fiction, so here are just a few of the most common ones -
 

Learning the facts and dispelling the myths

‘Diabetes is not that serious’

There is no such thing as ‘mild diabetes’ or a ‘touch of diabetes’. Diabetes is a serious condition. Not ‘feeling it’ doesn’t make it less important; neither is it less important because you are ‘diet control only’. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to significant complications.

‘If you have diabetes, you can’t eat sugar’

There is no special diet recommended for people with diabetes beyond that of a healthy balanced diet. This is the same for everyone, low-fat (especially saturated), low-salt, low-sugar. There is no reason why a little sugar cannot be part of a healthy balanced diet approach.

‘People with diabetes cannot eat chocolate and should eat diabetic foods only’

There is no need to buy or consume ‘diabetic’ foods. They tend to be expensive and can still affect blood glucose levels. There is no harm in treating yourself to a piece of chocolate as part of your healthy balanced diet.

‘People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses’

This is not necessarily true. However, acute illness can upset good control and uncontrolled blood glucose levels can delay recovery. So it is important to try and avoid this where possible and have, for instance, your annual flu jab.

How can I learn more about managing my diabetes effectively?

We offer lots of support in lots of ways, however you want to access it. Not everyone wants, or is able, to attend an event. However, these are a great way of getting to know other people with diabetes on a face-to-face basis. We have an annual programme of Diabetes Wellness events which offer the opportunity to learn more about diabetes, its management and complications, with like-minded people.

Our diabetes information leaflets are available to download in readable and audio format. If you have other access requirements, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Although we don’t have a dedicated tele-health help line, we are more than happy to speak to callers about their needs. You can do this by contacting us on diabeteswellness@diabeteswellness.net or calling 202-298-9211.