Myth:  Diabetics need to eat special diabetic foods.

Truth:  Diabetic foods generally offer no special benefit.  Healthy foods are what diabetics should eat.  This includes foods low in fat, moderate in salt and sugar, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

Myth:  Fruit has natural sugar, so it’s okay to eat as much as you’d like.

Truth:  Fruit is a healthy food and because fruits contain carbohydrates they need to be included in your meal plan.  No food is without limits.  Talk to your dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat.

Myths: Overweight or obese people will eventually develop type 2 diabetes.

Fact:  Being overweight is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.  Many overweight people will not get diabetes, and you can be normal weight and develop type 2 diabetes.

Myth: Diabetes is not a serious disease.

Truth:  It is a serious disease with important, serious complications if blood sugars are not managed properly.  Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.

Myth:  Diabetes is contagious.

Truth:  Diabetes is not contagious.  Genetics and lifestyle play a part—especially in type 2 diabetes.

Want more information?  Go to www.diabetes.org/