Answers to your questions about the disease
Q. Can you get diabetes from eating too much sugar?
A. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics, and type 2 diabetes is caused primarily by lifestyle habits. Too much sugar doesn’t cause diabetes. But too many calories and not enough exercise can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Try this: Limit the amount of added sugar you eat and drink.
Q. Does being overweight mean you will eventually develop type 2 diabetes?
A. Being overweight or obese does not mean you are going to have diabetes. Other risk factors—such as family history, ethnicity, and age—aren’t related to body weight. But losing even 5% of your body weight can reduce your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Try this: Ask your doctor if you need to lose weight or change your diet. Discuss a fitness plan that will work for you.
Q. Can you get rid of type 2 diabetes by losing weight?
A. Losing weight can reduce or even eliminate your need for medications, but it doesn’t cure diabetes. Even if you don’t reduce your need for diabetes medications, losing even a small amount of weight can improve your blood sugar control. Try this: Ask your doctor what your healthy weight range is, and if you need a weight management program.
Q. Can people with diabetes ever eat carbs or starchy foods like bread or pasta?
A. Those kinds of foods are part of a healthy diet. What is important is the portion size. Whole grain breads, cereals, pasta, brown rice, and starchier vegetables such as potatoes, peas, and corn are okay, as long as you don’t have too much. The American Diabetes Association recommends 45-60 grams of carbs per meal. Ask your doctor or dietitian what’s healthy for you. Try this: Use whole grain bread for your sandwich. Whole grains are a great source of fiber, which helps heart and digestive health.
