World Health Day: Myths and facts about diabetes mellitus

Zee Media Bureau/Sumit Channa

New Delhi: With the World Health Day just around the corner, it is essential for all us to head for a general check-up. Let us not go by the literal meaning of the sentence and rather start focusing on what actually makes us fall prey to such traps.

These traps do not only make us ill physically, but they also take a toll on our mental health. So, for the sake of our mental health, it is essential that we all become aware of the myths and facts about all the deadly diseases, but with the theme of the World Health Day being 'Beat Diabetes' this year, it becomes a compulsion to focus on the deadly diabetes mellitus.

One of the most common diseases, diabetes is on the rise around the entire globe and if we consider medical experts to be trustworthy, then this disease expectedly may cross 100 million mark by the year 2030 only in India.

Diabetes is tough to handle for a diabetic as it has no cure but it can surely be dealt with by leading a disciplined and healthy lifestyle.

Have a look at some myths and facts associated with the disease.

Myth: Eating sweets causes diabetes

Fact: This is the most common myth that has been doing rounds for several years now. A diabetic patient can consume sweets but he/she has to keep a check on the quantity. Eating sweets once in a while followed by some physical activity should not be a problem.

Myth: Obesity is the major cause

Fact: It is true to a certain extent but is not directly linked with diabetes. Obesity has a indirect connection as lack of physical activity leads to obesity which may cause diabetes. So, to avoid it and prove the myth wrong, stay fit.

Myth: Insulin consumption makes you dependent on it

Fact: This myth hardly carries any weight as insulin helps a diabetic to avoid complications that come along with the disease. In fact, insulin consumption helps you to live a better life.

Myth: Consuming too much sugar can cause diabetes

Fact: Another common myth that is associated with the disease is that consuming too much sugar can lead to diabetes. Sugar in large quantity can be dangerous but limited sugar should not be an issue.

Myth: No family history, no risk of diabetes

Fact: This myth is also not true as having or not having family history does not make a difference. If you follow an unhealthy lifestyle and have bad eating habits, you can also be prone to it like the person who has a family history.

Let us all take a vow this World Health Day and try to lead a healthy lifestyle so as to stay away from this lethal disease.