Debunking common misconceptions about diabetes

Did you know that 252 million people worldwide are living with diabetes without even realising it? This common and often symptomless condition remains shrouded in misconceptions surrounding sugar, fruit and weight. Let’s separate fact from fiction and take a closer look at the risks.

 

A common condition that often goes unnoticed

Diabetes is characterised by persistently high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood, known as hyperglycaemia. This occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin, or cannot use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter the body’s cells.

There are several types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system gradually attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It is most often diagnosed in childhood, adolescence or early adulthood, but it can develop at any age. Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common form, accounting for more than 90% of cases. It develops mainly after the age of 45. The body still produces insulin, but it becomes less effective at regulating blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. Finally, gestational diabetes can develop during pregnancy and increases the mother’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Misconception No. 1: “Eating too much sugar causes diabetes”

Pas directement. Le diabète de type 1 n’a aucun lien avec l’alimentation : il résulte d’une réaction auto-immune, sur un terrain génétique. Pour le type 2, ce n’est pas le sucre en lui-même qui déclenche la maladie, mais un ensemble de facteurs : l’âge, l’hérédité, le surpoids et la sédentarité, détaille l’Assurance maladie. Une alimentation trop sucrée peut toutefois favoriser la prise de poids, et donc augmenter indirectement le risque. C’est pourquoi l’OMS recommande de limiter les sucres pour prévenir le diabète de type 2.

Not directly. Type 1 diabetes is unrelated to diet; it results from an autoimmune reaction in people with a genetic predisposition. As for type 2 diabetes, it is not sugar itself that triggers the condition, but a combination of factors, including age, family history, excess weight and physical inactivity, according to the French national health insurance service. However, a diet high in sugar can contribute to weight gain, indirectly increasing the risk. This is why the WHO recommends limiting sugar intake to help prevent type 2 diabetes.

Misconception No. 2: “You need to cut out all carbohydrates”

False. Carbohydrates, found in foods such as bread, starchy foods and fruit, are still essential, even for people with diabetes. They should account for around half of daily energy intake, according to the French national health insurance service. The key is not to cut them out altogether, but to spread them out across the day, favouring starchy foods and limiting sugary products. A doctor or dietitian can help you find the right balance and tailor portions to your needs.

Misconception No. 3: “Fruit is off-limits”

False. Fruit is part of a balanced diet, whether you have diabetes or not. Although it contains natural sugars, fruit also provides fibre, vitamins and minerals. The French national health insurance service recommends a ‘varied diet with no forbidden food’. The key is to keep an eye on your portion sizes – one apple, one orange or two kiwis each provide around 15 g of carbohydrates.

Misconception No. 4: “If you feel fine, there’s nothing to worry about”

False. Even without symptoms, high blood sugar can gradually damage blood vessels and nerves. Over time, diabetes can affect the heart and arteries (leading to heart attacks and strokes), the eyes (diabetic retinopathy), the kidneys (potentially causing kidney failure) and the nerves, particularly in the feet. According to the WHO, diabetes directly caused 1.6 million deaths worldwide in 2021, nearly half of which (47%) were among people under the age of 70. This is why regular medical check-ups are so important, even if you don’t have any symptoms.

Misconception No. 5: “People with diabetes need to follow a special diet”

False. According to the French national health insurance service, ‘special diets for people with diabetes are no longer recommended’. Instead, the advice is the same as for everyone – eat a varied, balanced diet, have regular meals without skipping any, cut back on foods high in fat, sugar and salt, and avoid alcohol. Physical activity is also an important part of managing diabetes. Ideally, you should be active every day and break up long periods of sitting with a few minutes of movement.

Why early screening matters

Because type 2 diabetes can go undetected for years, screening is important for people at increased risk, such as those over 45, those who are overweight, those who lead a sedentary lifestyle, or those have a close relative with diabetes. The test is a simple blood test taken on an empty stomach to measure blood glucose levels. A diagnosis of diabetes is made when levels reach 1.26 g/L or higher, confirmed by a second test. Levels between 1.10 and 1.25 g/L indicate prediabetes, a warning sign that calls for further monitoring. If your risk profile warrants it, your GP can arrange this test.


Sources :

  • International Diabetes Federation, IDF Diabetes Atlas, 11th edition, 7 April 2025
  • Santé publique France, Diabetes: Data, updated 12 December 2025
  • World Health Organization, Diabetes, fact sheet, 14 November 2024
  • French national health insurance service, Causes and Risk Factors for Diabetes, 24 September 2024; Diabetes and Everyday Eating: The Essentials, 21 November 2024; Diabetes Symptoms and Diagnosis, 30 July 2025; Diabetes Complications: The Essentials, 10 July 2024; Non-Drug Management of Type 2 Diabetes, 30 July 2025.