Diabetic Myths To Avoid At All Costs

Don't be fooled by these diabetic myths

Urban legends and myths abound in todays society, and diabetes is no exception. Diabetic myths are common and can be very dangerous for a diabetic person, if they are not careful. It is, therefore, vital that as a diabetic you are able to sort out the truth from the myths. Most diabetic myths although often very negative sounding are really that bad. Often in fact they are outright lies based on misinformation. We present a number of these myths below

Diabetic Myth # 1- A hypoglycemic attack can cause severe brain damage

Because a hypoglycemic attack can arise suddenly with little warning and cause severe headaches in a diabetic person and at times leave them in a totally confused and weakened state. Some have felt that these symptoms are a result of brain damage and cell destruction. They believe that continued attacks will result in permanent brain dysfunction.

This of course, it not true in most cases. Repeated studies have shown conclusively that a diabetic hypoglycemic attack does not lead to any permanent loss of thinking ability or brain cells. However, the myth may arise because young children who have brains that are not yet developed fully, have been known to suffer some mental function loss and cell destruction.

The truth is, that the human body has an amazing ability to counteract the destructive effects of hypoglycemia using a large array of hormones the body produces to defend itself. As well as the body's immune system there are also positive things that a diabetic person can do themselves. One such step is to check your blood sugar levels before engaging in any demanding physical activity or exercise. You can also keep a handy supply of glucose readily available in case of an emergency.

Diabetic Myth #2 - Diabetics should not exercise

Out of all the diabetic myths around today this is perhaps the most serious since if can have life-threatening complications for a diabetic. Saying that a diabetic should not exercise  is completely untrue. The exact opposite is the case, diabetics more than anyone, need to take regular exercise to help control their diabetes. Exercise is perhaps the single most important step a diabetic person can undertake themselves to help manage and care for their condition. A diabetic exercise plan can greatly improve the health and complications associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

This is not to say that if you are a diabetic you should suddenly start doing strenuous exercise if you have never undertaken any form of exercise in the past, this is especially true if you are not a young person anymore. If you are over 40 and diabetic and you have never exercised before you should consult your doctor before embarking on a new exercise routine. You should start slowly perhaps increase the level of your activity gradually over time, as your body begins to conditions itself.

Does that mean there is never a period when a diabetic should not exercise. Of course not, some diabetic complications are very serious and debilitating, for example, eye hemorrhaging and kidney infections. Common sense would dictate that is such circumstances it would be more dangerous to exercise than not to exercise. But this does not mean you should never exercise again once these conditions improve.