Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Aug 16, 2025 Aarushi Bhadury

Diabetes Myths

A diagnosis of diabetes can be a life-changing event, often filled with confusion. Many people wonder if their diet caused the condition and if they'll have to give up certain foods entirely. Let's explore some common diabetes myths. Credit: Canva

Myth 1 You need special foods if you have diabetes

Foods marketed for diabetics, like special cakes or chocolates, are often high in saturated fats and calories despite being sugar-free. It's better to save your money and enjoy small amounts of regular treats occasionally, rather than relying on these costly alternatives. Credit: Canva

What Should Be Part Of A Diabetes Diet

The recommended diet for people with diabetes is the same as for everyone else: a healthy, balanced diet. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, with sugary and fatty foods kept to small, occasional amounts. Credit: Canva

Myth 2 People with diabetes shouldn’t eat fruit

Fruit is a healthy choice and an important part of a balanced diet. It's lower in sugar than cakes or sweets and packed with nutrients and fiber. Don't cut out fruit—instead, check other foods in your diet for sources of high sugar. Credit: Canva

Myth 3 Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar

Eating too much sugar doesn't directly cause diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, not a lifestyle one. While a high-sugar diet can lead to weight gain, increasing the risk for Type 2 diabetes, sugar itself isn't the cause. Credit: Canva

Myth 4 Type 2 diabetes is ‘mild’ diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition, not a mild one, even if it doesn't require medication. Properly managing it is crucial to prevent severe complications, including sight loss, amputations, and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Credit: Canva

Myth 5 You can’t eat any sweets if you have diabetes

You don't need to completely eliminate sweets from your diet. While excessive sugar can make it hard to control blood sugar and weight, you can enjoy small treats occasionally. The key is moderation, not total exclusion, to maintain a balanced diet. Credit: Canva

Myth 6 You can’t drink alcohol if you have diabetes

It is possible to drink alcohol with diabetes, but it's important to do so in moderation—no more than 14 units a week. Be aware that certain diabetes medications can increase the risk of a hypo, so be prepared and inform others. Credit: Canva

Myth 7 Avoiding sugar is the most important thing if you have diabetes

Focusing solely on avoiding sugar means missing out on nutritious foods like fruits and milk that contain natural sugars. The real concern is foods with added sugars and few nutrients, like sugary drinks and sweets. Prioritize nutrient-rich foods over simply avoiding all sugar. Credit: Canva

Next: Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Can Affects Your Health

Thanks For Reading ! See more stories

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

​Diabetes Myths ​

​Myth 1 You need special foods if you have diabetes ​

​What Should Be Part Of A Diabetes Diet ​

​Myth 2 People with diabetes shouldn’t eat fruit ​

You may also like

​Myth 3 Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar ​

​Myth 4 Type 2 diabetes is ‘mild’ diabetes ​

​Myth 5 You can’t eat any sweets if you have diabetes ​

​Myth 6 You can’t drink alcohol if you have diabetes ​

​Myth 7 Avoiding sugar is the most important thing if you have diabetes ​