Written by Alma Pantaloukas · Medically reviewed by the CircuFiber Scientific Advisory Board · Updated: October 28, 2026
Most common myths about diabetes are wrong in the same way: they make a complex, chronic condition sound simpler than it is. Eating sugar does not directly cause diabetes, thin people can develop type 2 diabetes, diabetes is not contagious, and insulin manages diabetes but does not cure it. People with diabetes can eat sweets in moderation, can and should exercise, and need to manage both type 1 and type 2 diabetes carefully, because both can affect the eyes, nerves, kidneys and heart.
Key Takeaways
- Sugar does not directly cause diabetes. Eating large amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
- Body weight is a risk factor, not a rule. Being overweight raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, but thin people can develop it too.
- Insulin is a treatment, not a cure. There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, and no natural remedy or alternative therapy cures diabetes.
- Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are both serious. Both require careful management to avoid complications in the eyes, nerves, kidneys and cardiovascular system.
- People with diabetes can eat sweets and exercise. Sweets fit in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and regular exercise helps blood sugar control and overall health.
What are the most common myths about diabetes?
Diabetes is a common chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and many myths and misconceptions surround it that can lead to confusion and misinformation. Here are 10 common myths about diabetes and the truth behind each one.
Myth 1: Only overweight or obese people get type 2 diabetes
Truth: While being overweight or obese is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, thin people can also develop the condition. Age, family history and other lifestyle risk factors for diabetes also play a role.
Myth 2: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes
Truth: While consuming large amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, it doesn't directly cause the condition. For a deeper look, read whether eating too much sugar can give you diabetes.
Myth 3: Diabetes is contagious
Truth: Diabetes is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person through physical contact.
Myth 4: People with diabetes can't eat sweets
Truth: People with diabetes can enjoy sweets in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They just need to monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their insulin or medication accordingly. These tips for successful blood sugar monitoring can help.
Myth 5: Insulin cures diabetes
Truth: Insulin is a medication used to manage diabetes, but it does not cure the condition. If you use insulin, see our guide to using and choosing insulin pens.
Myth 6: Type 2 diabetes is less serious than type 1 diabetes
Truth: Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are serious conditions that require careful management to avoid complications. Learn more about the differences between prediabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Myth 7: People with diabetes should only eat special "diabetic" foods
Truth: "Diabetic" foods are often no healthier than regular foods and can be more expensive. A balanced diet with a variety of foods is the best approach for managing diabetes. It still helps to know which foods to avoid with diabetes.
Myth 8: Diabetes is only a blood sugar problem
Truth: Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the eyes, nerves, kidneys, and cardiovascular system. Nerve and circulation changes often show up first in the feet, which is why daily care for diabetic feet matters.
Myth 9: People with diabetes can't exercise
Truth: Exercise is important for people with diabetes and can help improve blood sugar control, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health. Read more about the connection between diabetes and exercise.
Myth 10: Diabetes can be cured by natural remedies or alternative therapies
Truth: There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, and no natural remedy or alternative therapy cures diabetes. Some studies suggest certain natural remedies and alternative therapies may help manage symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes; talk to your doctor before trying any of them. Type 2 diabetes can be managed and sometimes even reversed with medication, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. See whether diabetes can be reversed for what that means in practice.
What are the facts behind each diabetes myth?
Each diabetes myth has a short, factual answer. The table below summarizes all 10 myths about diabetes and the facts behind them.
| Diabetes myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Only overweight or obese people get type 2 diabetes | Excess weight is a risk factor, but thin people can also develop type 2 diabetes |
| Eating too much sugar causes diabetes | Sugar can contribute to weight gain, a risk factor, but does not directly cause diabetes |
| Diabetes is contagious | Diabetes cannot be passed from person to person |
| People with diabetes can't eat sweets | Sweets can fit in moderation as part of a balanced diet, with blood sugar monitoring |
| Insulin cures diabetes | Insulin manages diabetes; it does not cure it |
| Type 2 diabetes is less serious than type 1 | Both are serious and need careful management to avoid complications |
| People with diabetes need special "diabetic" foods | "Diabetic" foods are often no healthier and cost more; a varied, balanced diet is best |
| Diabetes is only a blood sugar problem | Diabetes can affect the eyes, nerves, kidneys and cardiovascular system |
| People with diabetes can't exercise | Exercise helps blood sugar control, lowers complication risk and improves overall health |
| Natural remedies can cure diabetes | There is no cure for type 1 diabetes; type 2 can be managed and sometimes reversed with medical care and lifestyle changes |
Why do myths about diabetes matter?
Myths about diabetes matter because they can be harmful and misleading, leading people to ignore risk, skip treatment, or follow advice that does not work. By debunking these myths, we can provide accurate information and help individuals living with diabetes manage their condition effectively. It's essential to understand that diabetes is a complex condition that requires careful management and monitoring.
How can people with diabetes live well with accurate information?
People with diabetes can live well by relying on their healthcare team and trusted sources rather than myths. By working with healthcare providers, making lifestyle changes, and staying informed about the latest research and information, individuals with diabetes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Our essential diabetes management guide is a practical place to start.
When should you see a doctor about diabetes?
See a doctor if you have symptoms that could point to diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, or slow-healing cuts, or if you have risk factors and have never had your blood sugar tested. If you already have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing your diet, medication, or exercise routine, and before trying any natural remedy or alternative therapy. Regular check-ups help catch complications in the eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart and feet early.
Frequently asked questions about diabetes myths and facts
What are common myths about type 1 diabetes?
Common myths about type 1 diabetes include that it is caused by eating too much sugar, that insulin cures it, and that natural remedies can cure it. Type 1 diabetes is not caused by sugar, there is currently no cure, and insulin is a medication used to manage it.
What are common myths about type 2 diabetes?
Common myths about type 2 diabetes are that only overweight people get it and that it is less serious than type 1 diabetes. Thin people can also develop type 2 diabetes, and both types require careful management to avoid complications.
Can eating too much sugar give you diabetes?
Eating too much sugar does not directly cause diabetes. It can contribute to weight gain, and excess weight is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, so a balanced diet still matters.
Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
Type 2 diabetes can be managed and sometimes even reversed with medication, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. It still needs ongoing monitoring with your healthcare team, and no natural remedy or alternative therapy cures it.
Is diabetes contagious?
No. Diabetes is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person through physical contact or any other everyday contact.
References, studies and sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Diabetes Basics. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html
- American Diabetes Association. Healthy Living. https://diabetes.org/healthy-living
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Diabetes. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes
- World Health Organization. Diabetes fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
Healthcare disclaimer: Always consult your physician before beginning any program. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you experience any pain or difficulty, stop and consult your healthcare provider. CircuFiber socks are a general wellness product intended to promote a temporary increase in local blood flow and circulation; they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary.
