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Make Connections: Myth-Busters

Many people mistakenly believe that the following fac- tors cause type 2 diabetes. They do not! Sugar: Eating excessive quantities of sugar alone does not cause diabetes. If eating excessive sugar, however, contributes to a person becoming overweight or obese, then in that way it can play a role in the development of the disease. (Excessive amounts of protein or fat will do the same thing.)

Gender: Males and females are equally likely to develop diabetes.

Emotions: Changes in emotions do not trigger type 2 diabetes. Stress: Stress does not cause diabetes, but, like sugar, stress can contribute to weight gain. If you eat more to manage your stress and then gain weight, the excess weight—not stress—may influence the disease’s development.

Not So Sweet: Diabetes / 29