The 5 most common myths about diabetes you should know

The 5 most common diabetes myths you should know

In the U.S., about 23% of diabetes cases go undiagnosed, which makes early detection and access to care even more critical.

MARCH 30, 2025 12:57 PM EDTMAR 30, 2025, 12:57 PM EDT

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic illnesses worldwide and affects millions of people. In the United States, over 38 million people have diabetes—about 11% of the population. An estimated 8.7 million of them don’t know they have it, which makes early detection and access to care especially important (CDC National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2023).

A woman with diabetes pulls back the skin on her stomach and gives an injection of insulin with a disposable syringe with a small needle, or a girl planning a pregnancy stimulates ovulation before artificial insemination or conception.

Even with medical progress and better awareness, diabetes is still surrounded by myths. Some think it’s caused just by eating sugar or that people with diabetes can’t eat certain foods at all. These ideas make it harder to manage the disease and add to the stigma. It's crucial to rectify misconceptions and assist individuals in comprehending the reality of living with diabetes.

In the U.S., about 23% of people with diabetes don’t know they have it, which shows how important early detection and access to care really are.

Myth 1: 'If I eat a lot of sugar, I’ll get diabetes'

It’s a common belief, but it’s not that simple. Diabetes isn’t directly caused by eating sweets. It happens when the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly, so glucose builds up in the blood instead of being used for energy.

Portrait of teenage diabetic student standing outdoors in the city with smartphone in hand. Teenage girl wearing continuous glucose monitor sensor on her arm to keep her blood sugar level in check. Concept of teens and diabetes.

That said, eating too much sugar can lead to weight gain, and being overweight is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. So while sugar alone doesn’t cause it, a healthy, balanced diet is still important.

Myth 2: 'No one in my family has diabetes, so I don’t have to worry'

While having a parent or sibling with diabetes does raise your risk, family history isn’t everything. Many people with diabetes have no relatives with the condition. Lifestyle, weight, age, and other health factors all play a big role too. So even without a family history, it’s still important to be aware of the risks.

There are several risk factors for type 2 diabetes beyond family history. These include being overweight, over 45, having prediabetes, or having a history of gestational diabetes. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome can raise your risk too. A lot of people with diabetes don’t have a family history—so genetics isn’t the whole story.

Myth 3: 'Diabetes can be prevented'

Not always—but in many cases, especially with type 2 diabetes, you can lower your risk. It comes down to lifestyle. Staying at a healthy weight, eating well, moving your body regularly, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and keeping up with check-ups all make a difference. Cutting back on alcohol and quitting smoking help too. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making steady, healthy choices.

Diabetologist doctor testing blood sample on blood sugar meter in diabetes clinic. Doctor holding glucometer with test strip, waiting for results. Doctor explaining test results to patient, consulting and talking. Woman diagnosed with diabetes. Medical banner with copy space.

Myth 4: 'Insulin creates dependency'

This one’s common, but it’s not true. Insulin doesn’t make you dependent or “lazy out” your pancreas. By the time someone needs insulin, their pancreas is already struggling. Injecting insulin gives the body what it can’t make on its own. For people with type 1 diabetes—and some with type 2—it’s a critical part of treatment to keep blood sugar in check and avoid serious complications.

Myth 5: 'People with diabetes can’t exercise'

Actually, they should. Exercise helps manage blood sugar and improves how the body uses insulin. Plenty of athletes live with diabetes—like Nacho Fernández, former Real Madrid player.

The key is to take precautions. People with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar before, during, and after activity since levels can shift.

Young mother practicing yoga after giving birth

As Pedro Luis Navarro, founder of Glucube, states, keeping blood sugar stable is essential for staying healthy and avoiding long-term complications, especially metabolic and heart-related issues.

That said, people with diabetes do need to take some precautions when working out. It’s important to check blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise since they can shift.

“Raising awareness about the importance of keeping blood sugar stable is key to a healthier life,” says Navarro, founder of Glucube, a non-invasive glucose monitoring device. Keeping levels in check helps lower the risk of serious health issues like heart disease and metabolic problems.

Always search for verified information

The real issue starts when these myths lead people with diabetes to ignore their doctor’s advice. “It’s really important to listen to your healthcare team,” says Dr. Diego Fernández, Head of Endocrinology and Nutrition at Vithas Xanit Hospital in Benalmádena. “And if you’re searching online, stick to trusted sources like scientific societies or patient associations.”

Medicine, Age, Diabetes, Health Care and Old People Concept - Senior Man With Glucometer Checking Blood Sugar Level at Office

The goal is to keep diabetes under control. Dr. Fernández stresses the importance of a healthy, balanced diet—especially the Mediterranean diet—along with regular exercise, taking prescribed medication, and getting checked for complications. Diet, he says, is a key pillar of managing the condition.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health.