by admin-blog-kh | January 28, 2026 12:35 pm
Diabetes is one of the most misunderstood conditions today, surrounded by persistent myths that can cause confusion and stigma. Contrary to popular belief, diabetes isn’t just caused by sugar, nor is it limited to people who are overweight. It’s a complex metabolic disorder influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and overall diet. Carbohydrates, including those in fruits, aren’t forbidden; the key lies in moderation and fiber-rich choices. Insulin isn’t a “last resort” or a sign of failure—it’s often a life-saving necessity. And no, diabetics don’t have to swear off sweets forever. With proper management, occasional treats are fine. Relying solely on medication without diet and exercise can be dangerous, and type 2 diabetes is not “mild”—it can lead to serious complications if neglected. Understanding the science behind these myths empowers people to manage diabetes effectively and compassionately. Education, not fear, is the real cure for misinformation.
Misinformation about Diabetes has reached historic levels. Sugar is now considered poison, but unfortunately sugar is also in everything. Even fruit has sugar, they say! Artificial sweeteners are considered no better and supposedly cause cancer[10]. Basically, you’re left second-guessing everything you eat, feeling completely frustrated and hangry. It’s easy to get lost in this sea of myths and start feeling hopeless.
The truth is that diabetes is a complex metabolic disorder. It is affected by your genetics, your activity level and your broader diet – not just sugar. Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed with diabetes or learning more about it to support a loved one[11], we are here to help you separate fact from fiction. Let’s bust some myths!
You may have heard people tell their kids that if they eat too many sweets, they’ll get diabetes like their grandparents. This is an oversimplification. Eating too much sugar doesn’t directly contribute to diabetes. It’s not that linear. Consuming too much sugar is associated with weight gain, which in turn is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes has no relation to sugar consumption or weight gain[12], because it’s an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Eating sugar is, undeniably, a part of the equation, but is nowhere close to being the main variable. Even type 2 diabetes, on which sugar consumption may have an effect, is influenced by many other factors like genetics, age, physical activity levels and overall diet.
Instead of focusing only on cutting sugar, you should be focusing on what else to include in your diet. Think about your fiber and protein consumption too and work towards achieving more balanced plates. Maintaining this balance long-term is a much better use of your energy than just trying to cut sugar. Sugar, in controlled amounts, can give you a quick energy burst which you need sometimes.
There are many people who have healthy BMIs who still have diabetes. It is a common misconception that only “fat” people get diabetes, and it is their fault for not taking better care of themselves. This is simply not true. There is a major genetic component to type 2 diabetes. Although being overweight and having high abdominal fat does increase your chances of insulin resistance, which makes you more susceptible to diabetes, it is not the only criteria. Type 1 diabetes has no relationship with body weight at all. This myth only builds the stigma around diabetes and is not useful in helping people understand their condition.
Rather than stigmatizing overweight patients, the focus should be on understanding all the factors that increase your risk of diabetes[13], including genetic and lifestyle factors. Just because you are not overweight doesn’t mean you don’t have any risk of diabetes.
Carbohydrates give the body energy. Everyone needs this. Cutting all carbohydrates from your diet is not a sustainable way to manage your diabetes. You do, after all, need energy. The key is to recognize that not all carbs get absorbed into the blood stream at the same pace. Refined carbs, like our chief villain sugar, get absorbed into the blood very quickly, resulting in steep blood sugar spikes. It is these spikes we need to try to avoid. To do that, we need carbs that get absorbed slowly into the blood stream. For this, we need fiber! Whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits are rich in fiber. Fiber is our cheat code to slowing down glucose absorption. Diabetics need to consume carbs in moderation, and always with a good source of fiber.
Insulin is a vital, life-saving treatment. Unfortunately, there is a stigma associated with medication. This does nothing but blame the patient for their illness – Very unnecessary and not at all a supportive thing to do. Insulin use is associated with severe or uncontrolled diabetes but is not a sign that the situation is doomed. Type 1 diabetes destroys the body’s ability to produce its own insulin, so it is essential to supplement it with injectable insulin. In type 2 diabetes too, insulin supplements can help instantly bring down very high blood sugar levels. Once the emergency treatment is done with insulin and the patient is out of danger[15], the lifestyle changes and dietary changes can be put into action. Delaying taking insulin due to misconceptions and stigma are disastrous for the patient’s health – It can put extreme stress on the kidneys, and cause vision loss and nerve damage.
Dr. SSK Fully satisfied with the service provided by the staff. Always helpful and supportive. Doctor is excellent in providing the right diagnosis and prescribing the minimum required medicines which are adequate enough to control diabetes. I am totally satisfied with the patient care of the doctor. In my long history of diabetes treatment I have no hesitation to say Dr.Sivaram Kannan is a patient friendly and unique patient care doctor. Thanks.
– S M Pillai
We have been consulting DR.Sivaram Kannan for past 1 year.. I would definitely recommend people with diabetes, to consult him to understand your body. he really helped us to understand how we should focus on controlling blood sugar. We are happy that our blood sugar has been decreasing and we are recovering. Thanks Kauvery and SK sir for your hospitality.
– Nisha
Consulted Dr Subha K for diabetes management. Extremely professional. Wonderful and warm. She will patiently answer all your doubts and queries . Highly recommended.
– Praveen Balasubramanian
Diabetics don’t have to completely abstain from eating anything sweet. With a proper diet and exercise regimen, diabetics can have the occasional dessert – In moderation of course. If you understand how different foods affect your blood sugar levels, you can figure out how to safely eat desserts without spiking your blood sugar to sky-high levels. On special occasions, when you know you will have access to your favorite dessert, you could choose to eat a high protein meal with very few carbs.[16] That way, you have enough room in your meal for a small dessert. The fiber and protein from your main meal will help buffer the sugar from the dessert. If you are regular with your meal timings and portion control 80% of the time, you can have the occasional dessert without putting your health in danger.
Medication is an important tool to help you manage your diabetes. However, it can’t be your entire diabetes management strategy. Diet and Exercise are as important as taking medication when it comes to maintaining a stable blood sugar level. Exercise helps with insulin sensitivity, allowing your muscles to absorb more glucose[18]. This ensures that glucose doesn’t stagnate in the blood, causing complications to the vital organs. Exercise also helps you lose weight and reduces cardiovascular risk. A balanced diet helps regulate how quickly glucose gets absorbed into the blood. All these factors come together to help manage your diabetes. The pills support these processes, but it’s diet and exercise that make it a sustainable, long-term strategy. Ignoring the lifestyle changes can lead to complications like heart disease, nerve damage and vision problems.
There is no such thing as “mild” diabetes. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes is as serious as type 1. Type 2 develops slowly, but it should not be underestimated. If left untreated, it can cause life-threatening complications including heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, loss of vision and diabetic foot disease. If you have type 2 diabetes, you need to take your condition seriously and focus on managing it well. Ensure that you follow your general physician’s instructions and incorporate the lifestyle changes they suggest[19]. Take your medication regularly. Exercise moderately. Never miss a follow-up appointment with your doctor. Committing to the program could help prevent or delay complications and possibly save your life.
Diabetes is not caused by just one thing, and it can’t be managed by just doing one thing. This is a complex condition where many factors interact with each other to produce symptoms. By educating yourself about the myths surrounding diabetes, you can take charge of your life and learn to manage the condition better. Small, sustainable changes matter here. Take it one step at a time, and always remember, you have a team of experts, diabetologists[20], nutritionists, trainers and support groups to help you. Trust the experts and let them guide you. And next time someone tells you to just stop eating sugar, give them the scientific explanation and spread awareness!
For accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term diabetes management[21], consult Kauvery Hospital, with branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy. Our multidisciplinary teams combine medical expertise, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle support to help you manage diabetes safely and confidently.
Does eating too much sugar directly cause diabetes?
No. Excess sugar intake may contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, but diabetes is influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and overall diet.
Can only overweight people develop diabetes?
No. Many people with normal body weight develop diabetes. Genetics, age, and activity levels also play a major role.
Should people with diabetes avoid all carbohydrates?
No. Carbohydrates provide energy. The focus should be on fiber-rich carbs like whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and fruits, eaten in moderation.
Is insulin a last-resort treatment?
No. Insulin is a life-saving medication. It is essential for type 1 diabetes and often necessary in type 2 diabetes to control high blood sugar safely.
Can people with diabetes ever eat sweets?
Yes. With proper control, regular meals, and balanced nutrition, occasional sweets can be included safely.
Is taking medication alone enough to manage diabetes?
No. Medication works best when combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and consistent lifestyle changes.
Is type 2 diabetes a mild condition?
No. If unmanaged, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease[22], kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 6111 6111 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011
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