Diabetes is one of the most misunderstood health conditions and diabetes-related stigma is a very real issue for many Australians living with diabetes. Being questioned whether or not one can eat certain foods or being blamed for developing diabetes only adds to the pressure of managing and living with this complex health condition. So lets bust the myths!
Myth 1: People with diabetes can’t eat sugar.
Fact: People with diabetes can eat what everyone else can eat. People with diabetes do not need ‘special foods’ and there is no need for a zero-sugar diet.
Myth 2: People with diabetes can’t play sport.
Fact: As well as keeping fit and having fun, exercise is good for people living with diabetes, as it can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Myth 3: People with diabetes don’t live long lives.
Fact: Once diabetes has been diagnosed, you will have to manage the condition for the rest of your life. But this doesn’t mean that it will be a short life.
Myth 4: People only get diabetes if they are overweight.
Fact: Being overweight can be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, but people with diabetes look like everybody else – they come in all shapes, sizes, ages, gender identities and ethnicities.
Myth 5: People with diabetes can’t do certain jobs.
Fact: Some decades ago, there were many restrictions on the careers that people with diabetes could have. But times have changed, and so has diabetes management.
Diabetic Living is a one-stop health information source for the 1.7 million Australians who have Type 1, pre-Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes. Backed by a team of medical experts, DL provides easy-to-understand health and exercise information along with delicious, dietician-approved recipes for everyone looking to lead a healthy life.
