3 Misconceptions about Diabetes

Did you know that over 30 million people in the United States are living with either type of diabetes? Considering the staggering statistics in the U.S. alone, it’s important to know as much as you can about diabetes even if you haven’t been diagnosed yourself. You never know when your bit of knowledge could be helpful to someone else! Our team has put together a list of the three most common misconceptions about diabetes that can lead to confusion and fear in those who are at risk of developing diabetes or who are recently diagnosed.

• Misconception #1: Patients with diabetes can’t enjoy carbs or sugars. This is not true! Those with diabetes can indeed enjoy carbs or sugars. The difference here is that it is especially important to make sure those carbs and sugars are in moderation and not overly processed. Whole grains are your friend here!
• Misconception #2: A high protein diet is necessary when you have diabetes. That’s another falsehood! High protein diets have actually been linked to increased insulin resistance in diabetic patients. The key here is moderation.
• Misconception #3: Nerve damage is inevitable when you have diabetes. Again, not true! While those with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing nerve damage, otherwise known as diabetic neuropathy, there are ways to help prevent it and fight back.

There you have it – three common misconceptions about diabetes. There’s no need to make a diagnosis of diabetes scarier than it has to be! When it comes to living with diabetes, knowledge is power. In the event that diabetes causes problems for your feet and ankles, make an appointment with us at Foot and Ankle Specialists of Central PA. Our doctors Terry H. Clarke and Karen M. Leonard will diagnose you and treat you appropriately.  Our office serves patients in Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Harrisburg and surrounding communities in Cumberland County. We are located at 4 Flowers Drive, Suite 2, Mechanicsburg, PA, 17050. Visit the Foot Docs by calling 1-717-FOOTDOC!