Myths and Facts of Diabetes - Eating too much sugar can lead to diabetes

There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors that trigger the onset of the disease; type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors. A diet high in calories, whether from sugar or from fat, can contribute to weight gain. Being overweight does increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Eating too much sugar would raise blood glucose levels because most sweets contain a large amount of carbonhydrate in a very small serving. Understanding the effect of carbonhydrate on blood glucose level is key to managing diabetes. The carbohydrate in food makes blood glucose levels go up.

There are three types of Carbonhydrate in food: Starch, Sugar, and Dietary fiber. Both starch and sugar raise blood glucose level. Foods that contain carbohydrate are:

• beans and legumes
• Grains and starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn
• Starchy foods like bread, cereal, rice and crackers
• Fruit and juice
• Dairy products like milk and yogurt
• sweets and snack foods like chips, sodas, juice drinks, cake, cookies, and candy.

The key to keeping blood glucose level at your goal is to balance the food you eat with your physical activity.


reference: http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-myths/