Jakarta: Diabetes is a chronic (long-term) disease, in which the body cannot regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetes is a serious, lifelong disease that can lead to heart disease, stroke, and long-lasting nerve, eye and foot problems.
People with diabetes have too much blood sugar because their bodies cannot move glucose into fat, liver, and muscle cells to be converted into and stored for energy.
The good news is, people with diabetes of any type, who maintain good control of their blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, have a lower risk of developing kidney disease, eye disease, nervous system problems, heart attack, and stroke, and can live a long, long life. old and healthy.
There are many popular myths about diabetes and its management. Here are some must-know facts about diabetes, as quoted from Mount Sinai.
Derivative
Myth: Because there is no diabetes derivative, you don’t get diabetes
Fact: It is true that having a parent or sibling with diabetes increases the risk of developing diabetes. In fact, family history is a risk factor for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
However, many people with diabetes do not have a close family member with diabetes. Choice lifestyle and certain conditions can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. These include being overweight or obese.
Overweight
Myth: Being overweight can lead to diabetes
Fact: It’s true, being overweight increases your chances of developing diabetes. However, many people who are overweight or obesity never developed diabetes. And people who are of normal weight or only slightly overweight do develop diabetes.
(According to dr. Atika from Klikdokter, diabetics are still allowed to eat sweet foods, but still have to follow the rules. Photo: Illustration/Pexels.com)
Eat lots of sugar
Myth: Eat a lot of sugar, it is feared that you will get diabetes
Fact: Eating sugar does not cause diabetes. But still have to reduce sugary foods and drinks. This is what is confusing. This confusion may stem from the fact that when you eat, that food is converted into a sugar called glucose.
Glucose, also known as blood sugar, is a source of energy for the body. Insulin moves glucose from the blood into cells so it can be used for energy.
With diabetes, the body doesn’t make enough insulin, or the body doesn’t use insulin properly. As a result, extra sugar remains in the blood, so blood glucose (blood sugar) levels increase.
Eat special food
Myth: Diabetics should eat special foods
Fact: People with diabetes eat the same foods everyone else eats. In fact, The American Diabetes Association no longer recommends a specific amount of carbohydrates, fat, or protein to eat.
But they suggest that people with diabetes get carbohydrates from vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and nuts. Avoid foods that are high in fat, sodium, and sugar. A healthy and balanced eating plan with a healthy lifestyle will help you manage diabetes.
Cannot eat sweet food
Myth: Diabetics can’t eat sweets
Fact: Diabetics are not forbidden to eat sweets as long as not excessive. You can eat a little sugar instead carbohydrate others that are usually eaten at mealtime. If you are taking insulin, you may need to take a higher dose than usual when you eat candy.
It’s not safe to exercise
Myth: Exercising with diabetes is not safe
Fact: Exercising regularly is an important part of managing diabetes. Exercise helps increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin.
A good goal is to do at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week such as brisk walking. Include two sessions a week of strength training as part of your workout routine. Talk to your doctor to ensure a safe exercise program.
(BELIEVE)
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