World Diabetes Day 2021
Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Poor management of diabetes can cause blindness, kidney failure, heart disease and other serious conditions.
Common Misconceptions about Diabetes
Eating sugar causes diabetes
Diabetes is not directly caused by consuming sugar alone. However, diet with excessive calories and sugar can lead to weight gain and obesity, which are risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes.
People with pre-existing diabetes can lead to uncontrolled hyperglycemia by consuming foods that are high in calories.
Diabetes can be cured
Perhaps it may be that diabetes is so common among Malaysians that some may take it lightly and assume its curable. Unfortunately no, poor management of diabetes can lead to complications.
Some natural products can cure diabetes
Some may claim certain natural products may be able to cure diabetes. Unfortunately no, any claims that a product can cure diabetes are false. A lot of herbal or natural products will do little or nothing and, in some cases, they can potentially cause harm
People with diabetes cannot be active
Untrue! Exercise is an important component in the management of diabetes. It helps in weight loss and reduces blood pressure (both are risk factors for complications). Also helping the body use insulin better.
However, there are times when you do the same exact activities and eat the same food but your blood sugar levels may act differently from what you expected.
You can manage your blood sugar activity by:
- Keeping a record of your blood sugar while exercising and show it to your doctor
- Those who are at risk of hypos, ensure to keep fast-acting carbohydrates close to you
On this World Diabetes Day, preventing diabetes and its complications is vital for your health and your future. Go for our Gold Screening Package for your comprehensive health assessment as well as dietitian consultation on healthy-eating plan.