Diabetes: Seeing the facts behind the myths

An invisible illness, a silent problem - these are some of the terms that have been used to describe diabetes, and may be a reason why there are still many misconceptions about it despite being one of the top killer diseases in the Philippines. There are already more than four million diagnosed cases of adult diabetes in the country, which is more than enough reason to create better understanding about some basic myths and facts surrounding the disease.

MYTH 1: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.

Sugar has often been blamed as the culprit behind diabetes. The cause of most cases of diabetes is still unclear and sugar consumption is but one of the factors that contribute to the condition. It is important that all possible genetic and environmental factors are also considered when looking at a proper diagnosis or assessing the needed care.

The direct cause of the malfunction of insulin-producing cells has yet to be defined. Ingesting too much sugar may increase one’s risk but it is not the only cause. Cutting down on sugar also means cutting the risk but is not a guarantee that one will never develop diabetes.

MYTH 2: There is a cure for diabetes.

Diabetes has such a large impact globally yet there is no official cure for it. Medical advancements have been developed to manage and monitor the illness but, at this point, diabetics can only go into remission. Normal glucose levels can be achieved but the damage to the cells and the process of the disease continue over time.

A healthy lifestyle is the most highly recommended treatment for a better quality of life for diabetics, along with doctor-prescribed medication and care for the complications that diabetes may bring.

MYTH 3: Diabetics cannot eat sweets.

Diabetics are constantly vigilant of blood sugar spikes and people around them will usually deprive them of sweets or desserts because of this. The truth is that there is no ban on sweets as long as diabetics are conscientious in monitoring how much carbohydrates they consume.

Sugar-filled food and beverages can raise the blood sugar due to the very high carbohydrate content. This is why giving in to a craving for sweets means eating less bread, rice, pasta, and other carbohydrate-packed items.

Many diabetics love sweets and some may feel deprived of their favorite treats. As researchers work to find a cure for diabetes, maintaining balanced nutrition helps a lot in keeping blood sugar levels stable. Low-calorie sweeteners and meal replacements are important elements in a diet that can help keep one nourished without the worry of blood sugar spikes.

Though food choices for diabetics may be somewhat limited, it is essential to avoid flavor fatigue for them to be able to stick to their specialized diets. Diabetasol has been making sure to provide people with diabetes a good variety of nutritional drinks that help maintain stable blood sugar.

Diabetasol’s delicious Vanilla, Chocolate, Cappuccino, and new Creamy Almond signature flavor has Vita Digest to help control blood sugar and make you feel fuller for longer. With 28 vitamins and minerals, Diabetasol’s low-lactose formula helps boost immunity too -- and that’s no myth.

Diabetasol’s nutrition solutions for diabetics are available nationwide. Treat yourself well, choose Diabetasol.

ASC Reference No. K0044P092424D

Cover image produced by AI.